Considering purchasing an ML, advice needed!

Hi all,

I usually hang out on the tech forum but I'm considering buying a a used ML, not sure of whether it will be a 320 or 430. I would like some expert opinions on what I should look for and which engine choice better suits the vehicle. Also typical gas mileage on the 320 and 430. Yesterday I found a 2001 ML 430 and a 2000 ML 320. Big difference in price but I'm really looking at the vehicle from a practicality standpoint, tire burning stop light drags are not a necessity (although that would be impressive for an AWD system).

Thanks in advance

what's your approx. all around mileage?

[ML Dude]

The only problem with the 430 is the fuel mileage. I love the engine and if you do serious towing it's the only way to go.

But the 6 is a well designed willing performer when you stomp on it. I'm glad I got the V8 but I'd have to say it's not for everyone and you might be happier with the 320.

Rgds, Ed

[G-Benz]

I have a 99, so it's not as "feature-laden" as the later models. Still, it has proven to be reliable and fuel efficient...considering its curb weight.

I use mine as the weekend hauler and vacation vehicle. I don't tow anything, so I don't need the extra engine displacement or horsepower. And that said, I can keep up with aggressive "holiday vacation" highway traffic with ease.

[Made in Germany]

I am going through the same motions as JetForeman. Since the planned purchase will be for the wife (to haul the kids), suppose the 6 banger will do for the tasks. But when reading all the posts I am surprised how many things appear to go wrong with this model.

This makes a purchase from a private party quite a gamble as one can not buy some iwarranty/nsurance.

So is 2000 onwards I should be looking for? I saw ad's for a Sport model. Apart from obvious cosmetic/optical differences, what else has the Sport model to offer?

Does the forum rate the AWD system as reliable and longlasting?
My main conern is running up high repair bills on an AWD system.

I look forward to hear more opinions.

[Bayer]

Definitely you want a 2000 or up, and a 430 if you like to have some power.

If you can buy a lease return from a dealer only auction, you will save around $5,000 or more. MB dealer charges much higher prices.

If you don't mind 50K plus miles (after factory warrantee has expired) you'll get a great deal.

Good luck!!

[ML Dude]

About concerns with quality on this model, you have to look at the details. As they say the devil is in the details and although I've had my truck into the shop more times than I would like for a $50k vehicle, they were minor things which I wanted to get right.

I'm very exacting when it comes to my cars, I'm amazed by how little rattles or noises go unnoticed by most people. Well, it's these types of things I've been to the dealer for. As I read other posts here and on other forums, I find the problems with the ML to be similar minor detail issues with early American construction.

As the factory got more experience with production and procedures, the minor problems diminished. I've rarely if never heard of major things like the drivetrain or electrical systems freaking out on these trucks. So follow the advice given here and buy as new as you can afford and preferablely a 2000 or newer.
Keep in mind that a well cared for 99 with pride of ownership would have all the bugs taken care of by now. I would avoid a 98 simply because I would avoid the first production year of any vehicle, but the same is true for them.

Best wishes and let us know how your hunting goes!

[Made in Germany]

Bayer - excuse my ignorance. How do I go about buying from an auction? Any specific auction? Were would they be advertised?
Sounds like this is the way to go if one can save $5k or so.

Anyone can shed some light on the Spor version? Thanks.

[Bayer]

Do you know anyone with a dealer license?

If not, you should be able to hook up with a smaller dealer that sells typically 1 to 3 year old luxury cars. Chances are that the dealer gets them from the dealer only lease return auctions. You should be able to make a deal with them. Some can even get you into the auction, while posing you as a dealer with credentials. They typically want either a flat fee or a percentage of the price (5 ro 10%).

The Hi-Line auction in Riverside is the best one in So. California, but they have them all over the country.

Most dealer have access to the dealers only part of http://www.manheim.com/ website, were all cars are listed that come up for auctions, including the history for what cars sell. This is the primary tool all used car dealers use.

Most Mercedes and BMW lease return MUST be sold via auctions. Dealers are mostly not even allowed to take lease returns back and sell them directly, they must go through these auctions.

These auctions are also a lot of fun. When I went I had 2 hours to look over 3000 cars, of which 600 were Mercedes.

When the auction starts things move very fast and you better be ready to bid. Each car bids away in about 5 to 10 seconds.

Good Luck!!

These are some great comments folks, thanks for all the insider information. I'm still looking around and have found the prices very high at the dealers so I'll look into the auction scene for some lease returns. Excellent advice.

Thanks,

[Bayer]

6 month ago I picked up a black 2000 ML 430 with java interior with 52K miles in very good condition with navigation etc. for $23,320.

At that time I saw the 430's from that year going in the Auto Trader for $27K to 30K and at dealers up to $33K.

Where are you located? Maybe I can ask the person that helped me if they now someone in that area.

Good luck!

I live about 20 miles south of Atlanta and that's a hell of a deal you got. I have never seen one that inexpensive. You the man!!

As a side note I've been looking at the Explorer Sport Trac, I know I know, blasphemy you say. I cringe at the thought of owning another Ford product, I haven't had very good luck in the past but damn those things are practical and probably one of the best looking cross-overs I've seen yet. I read a lot of comments from owners and out of 32 comments only 1 had their Sport trac live at the dealership. Not bad odds!!

I'm still looking seriously at the ML but the Sport Trac is in the pot too for consideration.

[ML Dude]

Jetman,

If you're looking at a Ford Explorer, then you don't care about safety or traction.

Much less style......hmmm if you just need room to haul people and safety is not an issue. Do look at less expensive options.

Rgds, Ed

ML Dude, I'm looking at other vehicles, I do not, however, appreciate your comments based on your assumptions of my views concerning safety or traction. I of course consider both to be top priority and the Sport Trac can be had with side curtains and traction control.

Mercedes are awesome vehicles, I won't argue that, BUT, they are not the only vehicles out there that have exceptional safety records and or traction.

Shame you had to make a personal stab at me when I'm trying to keep an open mind and consider all avenues. Keep in mind, I'm looking for information (of which it was wonderful up until now).

Keep your negative comments to yourself and if you have objective/personal experiences that will educate me than I would appreciate it.

[ML Dude]

Jet,

Not my intent to be personal, but the safety record of the Ford Exploder is a fact not personal attack. I thought I was giving you information you might want to consider.
If you don't, I don't care but I'm not going to discuss the Ford on a Mercedes forum.

Let me just reiterate for others reading this thread, that the safety of the ML is under appreciated and a great reason to choose this vehicle as your cross-over choice.

JMHO, Ed