2012 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a luxury SUV that offered a blend of comfort, performance, and style. The ML500 was equipped with a 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2012 M-Class included a 3.5L V6 in the ML350, a diesel 3.0L V6 in the ML350 BlueTEC, and a higher performance 5.5L V8 in the ML63 AMG. People generally liked the ML500 for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and smooth ride. Common dislikes included its relatively high price, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.7L Twin Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. In some cases, the entire oil filter housing or timing chain cover may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+, depending on the source and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure, resulting in reduced engine power, unusual noises (whining or hissing), and potentially check engine lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic Plus 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. This is often due to wear or contamination of the valve body, which controls fluid flow within the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at low speeds. Stalling, poor acceleration, and unusual noises coming from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $3,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension, if equipped, can experience leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or problems with the control module. This can lead to the vehicle sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or the suspension failing to raise or lower.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, compressor, or module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a faulty module, a parasitic drain, or an aging battery.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the drain. Replacing the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other accessories. The SAM module controls many of the car’s electrical functions, and failure can cause widespread issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module and reprogramming it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience various problems, including freezing, rebooting, screen malfunctions, or failure to connect to Bluetooth devices.
  • Solution: Software updates, component replacement, or professional diagnosis and repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML500, while a luxurious and powerful SUV, is prone to several potential issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine (oil leaks, turbocharger problems), the transmission (valve body issues), and the air suspension (if equipped). Electrical problems related to battery drain and SAM module failure are also common. Repairs can be expensive, particularly for the engine, transmission, and air suspension. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic experienced with Mercedes-Benz vehicles to identify any existing or potential problems.