2015 Mercedes-Benz ML250
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is a luxury SUV known for its fuel efficiency compared to its larger engine counterparts. The ML250 is equipped with a 2.1-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine producing 200 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2015 M-Class include the ML350 with a 3.5L V6, the ML400 with a 3.0L Turbo V6, and the ML63 AMG with a 5.5L Turbo V8. Owners often appreciate the ML250’s comfortable ride, upscale interior, and fuel economy, while some criticisms include the relatively sluggish acceleration compared to the other engine options and the higher maintenance costs associated with luxury vehicles.
Engine
2.1L I4 Turbodiesel (OM651)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the oil filter housing, valve cover gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal. Thorough cleaning of the engine bay is recommended after the repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The DPF can become clogged, especially with frequent short trips. Symptoms include reduced engine power, illuminated check engine light, and DPF warning light.
- Solution: DPF regeneration (either forced regeneration by a mechanic or driving at highway speeds for an extended period) or DPF replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+, depending on the required service.
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can become clogged with carbon deposits. Symptoms can include rough idling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light.
- Solution: EGR valve cleaning or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC PLUS (722.9)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also present as harsh shifting or delayed engagement.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, fluid flush. In some cases, a software update may temporarily alleviate the issue, but replacement is often the permanent fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or failure to shift. The transmission may also get stuck in a particular gear.
- Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild. A transmission fluid flush and filter change are recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on if the valve body can be rebuilt or needs to be fully replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension may leak or fail, causing the vehicle to sag on one or more corners. The air compressor may also fail. Warning messages may appear on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut, air compressor, or air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per corner for strut replacement; $500-$1500 for compressor replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Suspension Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Loose or vague steering.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side, depending on the bushings replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short period of time, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty module, relay, or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, rough idling, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Glow plug replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
- Keyless Go Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failure of the keyless entry and start functions, requiring the key to be physically inserted into the ignition.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the Keyless Go system, which may involve replacing door handle sensors, the keyless start module, or the key itself.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or leak water.
- Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, or replacement of damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system may freeze, malfunction, or fail to display properly.
- Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to operate correctly, often due to a broken heating element.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML250 BlueTEC can be a reliable vehicle if properly maintained. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues, including oil leaks, DPF problems, and potential transmission issues. Suspension and electrical problems are also possible, as well as problems with some interior components such as the infotainment system and seat heaters. Repair costs can range from relatively minor fixes to more significant expenses, particularly with the air suspension and transmission. Addressing these issues promptly can help extend the life of the vehicle and avoid more costly repairs down the road.