2009 Mercedes-Benz ML500

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a mid-size luxury SUV that comes equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The ML500 has a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and plenty of power. However, it also has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

5.5-liter V8 Engine

• Intake Manifold Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by a faulty intake manifold that can crack and cause a vacuum leak. Symptoms include rough idling, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: The intake manifold needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by a faulty timing chain tensioner that can fail and cause the timing chain to skip or break. Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine, loss of power, and engine damage.
  • Solution: The timing chain tensioner and timing chain need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by worn or damaged transmission components that can cause the transmission to slip when shifting gears. Symptoms include delayed shifts, hesitation, and slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by a failure of the air suspension system that can lead to the vehicle sagging or riding too low. Symptoms include uneven ride height, reduced handling, and potential wheel damage.
  • Solution: The air suspension system needs to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by a faulty battery or electrical component that drains the battery overnight. Symptoms include difficult starting, dim headlights, and electrical system failures.
  • Solution: The battery needs to be replaced and the electrical system needs to be inspected for any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trim and Molding Discoloration:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by exposure to UV radiation that can discolor the chrome trim and moldings around the vehicle. Symptoms include faded or discolored trim.
  • Solution: The trim and moldings can be repainted or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue is caused by loose or worn sunroof components that can cause the sunroof to rattle when closed or open. Symptoms include a rattling noise coming from the sunroof area.
  • Solution: The sunroof components need to be tightened or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a solid luxury SUV with a powerful engine and a comfortable ride. However, it does have some common issues that owners should be aware of, including intake manifold failure, timing chain tensioner failure, transmission slippage, airmatic suspension failure, battery drain, trim and molding discoloration, and sunroof rattle. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, so it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.