Hello Gilly!!

You have such wisdom that I decided to ask you a couple of questions regarding a wind deflector for my 2002 ML320....

You stated in a previous post "If I wanted a wind deflector, I would try buying the pieces for the deflector that is used for the Skyview roof" Can you expand on that idea?

I have been told that the wind deflector would greatly decrease my noise when highway riding with the sunroof open. I planned to purchase one from my dealer for $50. How much time should I plan to pay for installation? Is it easily installed by a layman?

Thanks.

PS I had a very minor parking lot tap on my front bumper. It was so light that I did not bother to even look at it. I have since noticed a hairline crack in the bumper piece directly behind the license plate? Is this normal? I have 1500 miles and I cannot believe that this bumper cannot take a tap without cracking.... Do you think I have a chance with a replacement from the dealer?

Lindah:
What I was referring to on a wind deflector idea is that the ML's with the Skyview roof (which I believe is discontinued) have a kind of a neat deflector built in to the front of the roof rack. It looks like what would be needed is the front brackets for the roof rack and the deflector itself. I can try researching this and getting back to you. This may not be the most economical route, but the deflector does work quite well, and I think a little slicker looking.
That 50 dollar price seems hard to beat. You may be able to install it yourself, we all have different capabilities. You could ask the dealer how much they would charge to install it, I wouldn't pay over 20 bucks, it's not that hard, although if you try it yourself you may want to use a small stepladder, depending on your height.
Gilly

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Lindah:
I got some part numbers and prices looked up for doing the skyview deflector. It looks like the side rails are the same.
You would need 2 side caps, numbers 163-793-01-55 and 02-55,
about $25 each. 2 side brackets numbers 163-793-01-04 and 02-04, about $35 each. The spoiler itself is 163-793-03-88, and is about $165, and the seal for between the spoiler and roof is 163-793-00-98, costs about $35. I added up the exact prices and came up with about $325 in parts, there are some additional screws and washers to put it together with that should be ordered as well. Looks like it would be easy enough to do.
Gilly

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Lindah

The bumper skin is pretty fragile. Was it cold when it happened? It might just be cosmetic.

Kuan