2010 Mercedes-Benz ML350

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride and upscale features. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 3.0-liter V6 diesel (ML350 BlueTEC) and a 5.5-liter V8 (ML550). All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners often praise the ML350 for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and robust build quality. Common complaints include higher-than-average maintenance costs, some electrical quirks, and occasionally reported issues with the drivetrain.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

• Balance Shaft Sprocket Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise coming from the engine, especially at startup or idle. Can also trigger a check engine light with codes related to camshaft timing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft and potentially other related timing components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, and potential fuel economy issues. Error codes typically relate to the intake manifold or swirl flaps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly. Some aftermarket options offer updated designs to prevent future failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often located under the intake manifold. Can lead to a low oil level and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler seals. This repair often involves removing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, check engine light, and messages related to DPF regeneration or clogging.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (if possible), cleaning the DPF, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or getting stuck in a specific gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or individual solenoids within the valve body. Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement are often recommended as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar symptoms to valve body issues, including erratic shifting and potential limp mode. The conductor plate contains the transmission control unit (TCU) and sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially reprogramming the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, especially overnight. The compressor struggles to maintain the correct ride height, leading to warning lights and a bumpy ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor. Also, inspect the air struts for leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag or lean to one side. A hissing sound may be heard near the strut.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, key not recognized, or no response when turning the key.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS unit and potentially reprogramming with the vehicle’s keys.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with rear lights, power tailgate, trailer wiring, or other rear-related electrical components. Water intrusion can sometimes contribute to SAM failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear SAM unit and potentially addressing any water leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Bulb Failure/Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Non-functioning tail lights or turn signals. Corrosion in the bulb socket is a common cause.
  • Solution: Replacement of the bulb and cleaning or replacement of the bulb socket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, difficulty opening or closing, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, or addressing any drainage clogs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML350, while a luxurious and comfortable SUV, is prone to several issues that can lead to significant repair costs. Engine issues, particularly related to the balance shaft and intake manifold on the 3.5L V6 and oil cooler leaks and DPF on the diesel, are common and can be expensive. Transmission problems related to the valve body or conductor plate are also frequently reported. The air suspension, if equipped, is another potential source of costly repairs. Electrical issues with the EIS and SAM modules can also occur. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering this vehicle. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars.