Not meaning to jump in, but I used to have a 98 with 112k miles....
Transfer case started slipping (chain jumped on the sprockets) under hard acceleration....
Phil helped me out with a new (redesigned - thank YOU, MB) transfer case, and that solved the problem.....

Problems with switches (not too hard to replace, BTW), belt tensioner, seat releases, etc..... It all starts to add up after a while....
Phil does a great job - M-B's design of the 98 ML did not.....

Sorry M-B, I wouldn't buy another one..... (if you're asking....)
If you MUST - as a poster already said, '00 or newer.....
JMHO.......

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Barry