2009 Mercedes-Benz MBO 14000
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML350 (W164 chassis) is a popular luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and utility. Engine options include a 3.5L V6, a 5.5L V8, and several diesel options. The 3.5L V6 produces approximately 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the ML350’s refined ride quality and luxurious interior, but some common complaints include electrical issues and relatively high maintenance costs. The vehicle is equipped with a 7G-Tronic automatic transmission.
Engine
3.5L V6 (M272)
- Balance Shaft Sprocket Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise from the engine, especially during cold starts. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft timing or correlation issues (e.g., P0016, P0017, P0018). This is due to premature wear of the balance shaft sprocket teeth.
- Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft, sprocket, and timing chain components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Runner Control Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to the intake manifold runner control (e.g., P2004, P2005). Reduced engine performance and fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold runner control motor or the entire intake manifold assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light with camshaft position sensor codes (e.g. P0340, P0341).
- Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
5.5L V8 (M273)
- Valve Lifter Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, particularly after extended periods of inactivity. Noise may lessen as the engine warms up.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty valve lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-Tronic (722.9)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, or erratic shifting behavior. Can trigger transmission fault codes.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission and replacing the conductor plate may resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Transmission slipping.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Airmatic Suspension Issues (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running excessively, suspension malfunction warning lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the leak (air struts, air lines, valve block, air compressor). Replacement of faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut/compressor
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, steering wheel not unlocking.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the EIS module. This often requires dealer programming.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close, makes grinding noises, or moves erratically.
- Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including issues with lights, wipers, power windows, and door locks.
- Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Power Tailgate Strut Failure (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate fails to open or close automatically, struggles to stay open, or makes unusual noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the power tailgate struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system rebooting, navigation errors, inability to connect to Bluetooth.
- Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heater fails to warm up, only heats intermittently, or overheats.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML350, while offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience, is prone to certain issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine problems such as balance shaft wear and intake manifold runner control motor failures can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the valve body, are also common. Suspension problems related to the Airmatic system (if equipped) can lead to expensive repairs as well. Electrical problems involving the EIS, sunroof motor, and SAM modules are also potential concerns. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to address. It’s essential to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a 2009 ML350.