2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride and elegant interior. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other available engine options include a diesel 3.0-liter V6, a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, a turbocharged 4.7-liter V8, and a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8. All engine options come paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the ML350’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and upscale features. Common complaints often revolve around higher maintenance costs and some electrical issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M276)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idle, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the front of the engine, often dripping onto the accessory belt. Can lead to overheating if coolant also leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing/cooler assembly, including gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Diesel V6 (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, often dripping onto the ground. The leak can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, unusual noises from the turbocharger area.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, particularly at highway speeds. Can also manifest as erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, failure to maintain ride height, “Visit Workshop” message related to air suspension. Noises while the vehicle is raising and lowering the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, particularly overnight, due to air leaks in the struts. Noises while the vehicle is raising and lowering the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently dies, especially after the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain. Common causes include faulty door modules, seat modules, or the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights may flicker or stop working.
  • Solution: Replace the bulb or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The screen goes blank, flickers, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replace the screen or the entire COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced heat output, especially on the driver’s side.
  • Solution: Flush the heater core or replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350, while a luxurious and comfortable SUV, can be prone to several issues. Engine problems like camshaft adjuster solenoid failure and oil filter housing leaks, along with transmission issues such as torque converter lock-up clutch failure, are relatively common and can lead to moderate repair costs. The air suspension system (if equipped) also presents potential maintenance expenses. Electrical issues, particularly with the battery drain and sunroof, can be frustrating. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of potential repairs when considering this vehicle. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, potentially exceeding several thousand dollars.