Our 2001 ML320 has had a problem for as long as I can remember. The truck tends to get very bumpy especially in the rear; it really moves up and down quite a bit over bumps in the road, and even jumps/sways side to side during turns and over jittery surfaces. It's gotten to the point where I almost always get carsick.

The dealer kept claiming that it was normal, but I can't believe that the ML320 would have a less composed ride than a Honda Pilot or RAV4 (my only other SUV experiences). And I have no access to another ML320 to compare. I thought originally it might be the shocks, but the rear bumper test seems to show pretty good dampening.

Do you think this behavior is normal because it's a truck-based SUV, or could it really be a problem? It has 106k miles on it, so if it is abnormal what would be the initial suspects? I just want some background info when I bring it to a mechanic; I would hate to pour another couple grand into the truck if it won't improve the problem.

Thanks in advance :-)

Are they still the original rear shocks? If so, forget the bumper test, they are shot at over 100k miles. Also, how are your tires / what kind are they? Are they inflated correctly? All can play a part in the ride.

But, I think you may have hit the nail on the head about a "truck" style SUV. Old MLs are body on frame, not unit-body. Solid as a rock, and ride like one too!