Is there any reason not to Do it Yourself (replace spark plugs and serpentine belt on ML320). I currently change the oil and filter myself with ease.

Anyone have instructions or tips?

Thanks,
Don

The belt is a simple job, Just look at routing of the belt & make a diagram. Release the tensioner (spring loaded) & replace belt. Now the plugs can go 60K-100K miles & having several hours to get the right angle & combination of socket/extensions is the key.

Thanks MB DOC,
I assume the ML belt tensioner is released using good old hand force like others, no tools required.

Don

PS, I here fuel filter change should be done by dealer??

Plug replacement is not too bad - engine use two plugs and one coil for each cylinder. Clearance is a little tight for the left cylinder bank, but its doable.

I can't help but notice that posts on ML series are very rare. I'm not sure if that is because they are exceptionally reliable vehicles, or if it's because ML owners don't like to work on their own vehicles very much. Please take a few moments and give us the benefit of your experience driving and maintaining the ML. I am sure many of us would be interested.

Paul,

I got a great deal on my '98 ML in July 2000. It had 57,000 miles on it. It was well taken care of and the previous owner maintained all records. You are right, it appears that most ML owners are not Do It Yourself types. However, I owned a Jimmy 4 years and never took it to the shop. Personally, I enjoy doing the regular maintenance on all my vehicles.

I was quite surprised to find out how simple it was to do an ML oil change. It raised my curiosity about other maintenance items so I ordered the maintenance manuals direct from MB to see how simple it is to do other maintenance such as fuel filters and spark plugs. I think I will leave the big stuff to MB.

The ML appears to be a very reliable vehicle! Another reason we are not seeing much stuff on the ML is because the 3-year warranties and extended warranties are just beginning to expire since it was first introduced in 1998.

Thanks for the info. I have been kind of intrigued by the ML ever since it came out, but never actually met anyone who has one. I suspect most of them are leased, and the type of crowd who own them are generally not DIY'ers. Glad to hear it is working out well for you. I have an old Toyota 4 runner SUV. It's getting a bit old, but it is so rock solid reliable, I can't see trading it in anytime soon. When the time comes though, I think I might lean towards the ML.