2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 is a hybrid SUV that combines luxury with fuel efficiency. Its powertrain consists of a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 335 horsepower and 381 lb-ft of torque. It uses a 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2010 ML-Class include a 3.0L diesel V6, a 3.5L gasoline V6, and a 5.5L gasoline V8. What owners generally like about the ML450 is its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and decent fuel economy for its size. Common dislikes include the complex hybrid system, potentially high repair costs, and the age of the vehicle leading to wear-and-tear issues.

Electric Motor

ML450 Hybrid System

• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard related to the hybrid system, decreased power and acceleration, and eventual inability to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Hybrid system malfunction warning lights, loss of assist from the electric motors, reduced fuel economy, and jerky acceleration.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine if the electric motor needs repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) Transmission (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, erratic shifting, and possible stalling. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, failure of the air compressor, “Visit Workshop” message related to the air suspension, and a rough or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines. Diagnosing leaks in the air suspension system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,200+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, and the steering wheel not unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the EIS.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of various electrical components, such as lights, wipers, or windows. Intermittent issues with central locking or other systems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine which SAM is failing (Front, Rear, etc.) and replacement of the faulty SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Bulbs or entire tail light malfunctioning
  • Solution: Bulbs may need to be replaced, or the entire tail light assembly may need to be replaced
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450, while offering a luxurious experience, is prone to certain issues related to its hybrid system, transmission, and electrical components, typical of vehicles of its age and complexity. The most concerning issues are related to the hybrid battery and air suspension systems, which can result in high repair costs. The torque converter and valve body issues in the transmission are also potential problems to watch out for. Overall, potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles, especially the hybrid models, and factor in potential repair costs when considering this vehicle.