2011 ML350 BlueTec

[BenzBob]

Looking at a 2011 ML 350 BlueTec and looking for comments. This vehicle has Run-Flat tires as the Ad-Blue tank is placed in area that normally would be provided with the spare tire. So, no spare tire either. Googling Run-Flat Tires I don't see much positive said about them. However, I don't see anyone saying anything about them on this Forum.

Also, anything else I should be aware of? On a short trip down the interstate the fuel economy gauge was showing 28 mpg.

I have a 2006 ML 350 right now so would be upgrading to get 5 years newer and also better fuel mileage.

[Skid Row Joe]

Originally Posted by BenzBob

Looking at a 2011 ML 350 BlueTec and looking for comments. This vehicle has Run-Flat tires as the Ad-Blue tank is placed in area that normally would be provided with the spare tire. So, no spare tire either. Googling Run-Flat Tires I don't see much positive said about them. However, I don't see anyone saying anything about them on this Forum.

Also, anything else I should be aware of? On a short trip down the interstate the fuel economy gauge was showing 28 mpg.

I have a 2006 ML 350 right now so would be upgrading to get 5 years newer and also better fuel mileage.

The diesel-powered MB SUVs are 'all-the-rage' right now - which means that they yield more mpg than their gas counterparts. But, does that mean you want a vehicle that is known to have many weak points repairwise?

My impression of Mercedes-Benz SUVs has been that they're probably on-average, less reliable and more costly to own and operate over time, than many of their American branded contemporaries in the SUV market.

Can you make up the difference because it's a diesel, on likely a vehicle with a greater need of repair costs going forward? Maybe.

[jcyuhn]

Two thoughts on run flat tires. They are supposedly good for 50 miles at 50MPH without air. Is that sufficient mobility for you, or would getting a flat on a weekend trip with no spare be a problem for you? The second concern is economic. Price out a set of run flats for the ML and figure the cost/mile of the tires vs. a set of conventional tires on your current ML. Add this to the cost/mile for fuel and see if the diesel ML is sufficiently ahead of the gasoline version to bother.

I am not a huge fan of the OM642 engine in the ML, and I say that owning the same engine in an E-class sedan. It's great to drive, but seems to have a couple of common problem areas. Two that come to mind are the intake shutoff flaps and associated actuator motor, and second is the oil cooler. Both repairs are $1K+, and I would figure on having to do one of them in 5 years of ownership.

My basic concern regarding the diesel ML is economic. I am not at all sure it is less expensive to own and operate over the long term than an ML350.

[oldsinner111]

I'm looking for a CDI ML I want to use a programmer,and delete exhaust filters,add a better oil cooler?Possible propane injection for smarty pants drivers

[ILUVMILS]

Originally Posted by jcyuhn

I am not a huge fan of the OM642 engine in the ML, and I say that owning the same engine in an E-class sedan. It's great to drive, but seems to have a couple of common problem areas. Two that come to mind are the intake shutoff flaps and associated actuator motor, and second is the oil cooler. Both repairs are $1K+, and I would figure on having to do one of them in 5 years of ownership.....

X2.

Don't forget the DPF sensors, exhaust temp. sensors, Adblue heater, etc......
I'm beginning to think that the OM 642 is a CHECK ENGINE light waiting to happen.

[BenzBob]

Thanks for everyone's input. Sounds like I would be wiser to keep my 2006 ML 350 and not go down the road of an MB Diesel.

At first, I was concerned about the Run Flat tires and not being able to repair one and then having to replace all 4 tires due to difference in size between one new one and 3 worn ones. Not to mention that I may be stranded for a day or two on a trip while having to order a replacement.

Sounds like there are more issues than Run Flat tires though. Makes you wonder whether the "new clean diesels" with all their sophisticated technology to clean-up their emissions (high pressure fuel pumps, direct fuel injection, diesel particulate filters, ad-blue filter pumps/heaters) will be more economical to operate than a gas engine. Add to that the possibility of miss-fueling or fueling with contaminated fuel and it looks like you could be looking at a $7,000 to $9,000 repair bill to replace the costly High Pressure Fuel Pump and piezoelectric fuel injectors and other associated parts.

[Bruce II]

I own a 2011 ML350 Bluetech with 53,000 miles. We bought the CPO extended warranty valid to April 2018, unlimited mileage. It just went into the dealership with a CEL and (per my wife) rough running. I would have driven it (fluids checked out, 88 degree-C on the water temp), but Service Manager at MB-Portland said it's better to tow it in. We bought it with 34,000 miles and this is the first non-scheduled service. My only complaint: there is a slight hesitation/jerking around 1,800 RPM in 2nd or 3rd gear, especially when going uphill. I replaced the Dunlop RFT with Yokohama YK580s (rated for 60,000 miles): it improved the ride tremendously. I have AAA, MB-Roadside Assist, and Verizon Wireless roadside, plus the MB-Embrace support/in-car cell service. Why would I want to change a tire myself? They'll tow it to Les Schwab, and (most likely) repair the tire. If it's blown, maybe I'll have to buy two new ones. I'll take that risk to avoid carrying a donut in the cargo hold.