Thinking Of A Late Model ML350 CDI Bluetec - Any Known Issues?
 

I am thinking of purchasing a late model ML350 CDI/Bluetec and am curious about anyone's experience with this engine and chassis and the chassis alone. I have perused the forum a bit but don't see any repeat issues concerning reliability or flaws, as long as the air suspension is avoided. Any other items? Engine and transmission? I know the 1998 or so vintage 5-speed auto had transmission issues (my brother in law bought the previous ML500, and had the transmission just fail while driving home one day at less than 90k miles - no help from MB, so he had a rebuild put in and traded the car in on a Lexus), and was hoping there was something to note about the present 7 speed in terms of ruggedness and reliability by now.

Anyone willing to share experiences? Sure wish I tried this before I bought that 350SD back in about 1996.....

Thanks,

Jim

If it's an ML350 Bluetec, it will be a 2010 model, so really "late model." You'll have warranty for 4-years from in-service date and up to 50K miles, so any "issues" won't be too costly.

There really aren't many issues left with these models, as they've been around since '07, but there are some "features," such as whether you like the brake pedal feel and can live with a bit of clunkiness apparently inherent in the interface between the diesel and 7-sp transmission.

These vehicles come with HR-rated tires which means the car is electronically limited to 130 mph (which it will do) and this means the car is fitted with "performance" tires that, if you're lucky, will last for 25K miles. Many folks that don't understand Mercedes seem disappointed by this.

Did they replace the deal breaking run-flat tires with conventional tires?

Yeah, a Bluetec will be nearly new or new, I realize that. But I am one of the kind that keeps things until they are not fixable. I have several cars with well over 200k miles, and all but one that have over 100k miles (the one under 100k miles is at 98k plus). So, for me the "issues" of concern are things that show up after some miles, when the car is out of warranty.

As for the brakes you mentioned, I will check them out on an extended test drive. Is this a W164 chassis "feature" or is it only the newer Bluetec's with the odd pedal feel? Same with the clunkiness of the transmission - that won't really bother me as much as one that drops balls from bearings and strips teeth from gears after 90,000 miles. Clunkiness as a "feature" is either something you get used to or you don't - I will see how I feel about it when I take one for a weekend or so.

Thanks,

Jim

Runflats still fitted and still I agree a deal breaker.

2008 is last year without them.