2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfort, build quality, and smooth ride. The ML350, is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 ML-Class included a diesel engine in the ML250 BlueTEC and a more powerful V8 engine in the ML550. All engine options were paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Common praises for the ML350 include its comfortable interior, quiet cabin, and ample cargo space. Some criticisms include its somewhat dated infotainment system and higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury SUVs.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light, rough idling, reduced engine performance, and potential stalling. Fault code P0016 or similar codes may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid (also known as a camshaft position actuator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing, often including new gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, transmission slipping, harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission flush and fluid change may temporarily alleviate the symptoms, but replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, transmission stuck in a specific gear, limp mode activation.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. Some shops offer a remanufactured valve body as a more cost-effective solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially on one side, air suspension warning light, compressor running constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. It’s also recommended to inspect and potentially replace any leaking air struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, particularly overnight, noticeable hissing sound from the strut, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts, electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the parasitic drain. This could involve tracing faulty wiring, replacing a malfunctioning module, or addressing an issue with the vehicle’s electronics.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors not working, false alarms, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty parking sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, track, or seals, depending on the cause of the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Power Seats
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not adjusting properly, motor noise but no movement, or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat motor, switch, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Cup Holder Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic cup holders in the center console are prone to breaking, making them unusable.
  • Solution: Replace the cup holder assembly or find an aftermarket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 has a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine issues such as camshaft adjuster solenoid failure and oil leaks, alongside transmission problems like torque converter and valve body failures, can lead to substantial repair bills. The air suspension (if equipped) is another area of concern, with potential compressor and strut failures. Electrical problems like battery drains and sensor malfunctions, and interior issues with power seats and cup holders, can also arise. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be quite costly. Addressing these potential problems promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and prevent further damage.