I’m new to the 2000 ML320 V6-3.2L (112.942), so if someone would be kind enough to offer clarification on this issue I would greatly appreciate their assistance.

I stopped by the MB dealer and purchased a MB oil filter for my 2000 ML320 yesterday. But last night when I removed the old filter from the oil filter housing, I noticed the new MB filter has a different size opening in the center. In other words, the rod that passes through the filter is a different diameter. So I returned to the dealer today asking for the correct size filter for my model of car. After a short while the parts person returned to inform me MB had changed the oil filter housing cap - which now has a new style and size rod in the center. The parts man stated I would be required to spend $50.00 for the new oil filter cap with the new size rode for the new style filter.

This is my question, I’m aware due to extended oil service intervals MB has designed a new material for oil filters which is designed for synthetic oils. Is the new extended oil filter (looks like cotton) version the filter that requires the new oil filter cap or can I still purchase the “older” style oil filter (fleece/paper) version to use with my existing filter cap.

I use Mobil 1 5w40 synthetic and change my oil about every 3-5 thousand miles.

Thanks in advance!

__________________
Russell McMahon
Tulsa, OK
2001 CLK 320
1992 400se
1993 400e
2000 320ML

You can buy either the older style or newer "fleece" style that fits the filter rod. Also, you do not need to change the oil anywhere near that often. Synthetic does not break down, it's simply how much "dirt" is in the oil. The FSS sensors measure how much dirt there is, that's why it's not a specific number of miles between changes. I simply follow the approach that when FSS reads 2000 miles remaining, I change it. This means I typically get 6-8000 miles per oil change. At 75000 miles, I don't burn even a drop of oil. As it should be!

According to Wolfganag's site, fleece filter is required for 0W-40 oil. I still got a couple of paper filter left, so I'll have to check out if I need a new filter cap next time if I decide to go with 0W-40.

ML320guy, what is your driving pattern? According to FSS, I usually have 11k between FSS intervals. I drive mostly freeway though.

My dealer used the paper filter with 0W-40 during covered maintenece.


I drive city & Highway. My FSS gets down to 2000 usually after about 8000 miles. Assuming that the remaining 2000 "FSS" miles counts down to zero after exactly 2000 miles, I would have traveled about 10000 miles on the oil. But I always change it before FSS reached 2000 (the dealer would also do the oil change when FSS reaches 2000 just as the owners manual suggests).