2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450 is a hybrid SUV that combines a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 335 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2011 ML-Class included a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine, a 5.5L V8 gasoline engine, and a 3.0L diesel V6. Owners often appreciate the fuel economy offered by the hybrid powertrain compared to other SUVs of its size, as well as the overall luxury and comfort typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Common dislikes can include the complexity of the hybrid system and potential maintenance costs associated with it.

Electric Motor

ML450 Hybrid

• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard related to the hybrid system, reduced performance, or the vehicle failing to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky acceleration, loss of electric assist, error messages related to the electric motor, or the vehicle defaulting to gasoline engine operation only.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of the malfunction. This could include replacement of the electric motor or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

ML450 Hybrid

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover onto the engine, burning oil smell, visible oil residue on the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic 722.9 (All Engine Options)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission getting stuck in gear, inability to shift gears, or transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or stalling at low speeds, especially during acceleration. May also present with a whining noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially after sitting overnight, air compressor running constantly, suspension fault warnings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of the leak or failure. This could include replacing air struts, the air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to start the vehicle, key not being recognized, or the key getting stuck in the ignition.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with various electrical components such as lights, wipers, or power windows.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the faulty SAM module (front or rear) and replacement followed by programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues 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 mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450, while offering a luxurious driving experience and some fuel efficiency benefits from its hybrid powertrain, does present potential owners with several common issues. The most significant and potentially costly problems revolve around the hybrid system, including potential battery and electric motor failures. Electrical issues, especially related to the EIS and SAM modules, are also frequent concerns. Suspension and transmission problems add to the ownership cost. The severity of these issues ranges from moderate inconvenience to significant drivability problems. The potential costs of repair, particularly for the hybrid components, can be substantial, making a thorough inspection and a comprehensive pre-purchase check essential.