2000 ML430 How hard is it to replace brake pads? Rotors? Brake sensors?

[Johnny916]

My 2000 ML430 needs new brake pads.. How hard are they to replace?


Also, how do I know if I need new rotors as well? I'm a car dealer so I just want to spend the least amount while still keeping the car safe.. My rotors feel rigity, can somebody explain to me exactly how to measure them?

Do you think I can replace them myself or do I need special tools? I have the WIS service manual..

[Ethan]

I am not sure what the minimum thickness is for an ML is, but my car for example is in the 20.4 - 19.4mm region, You need calipers to measure the different areas on a rotor.

MB OEM rotors are actually cheap, they never get turned only replaced.

Mercedes brake pads are easy to replace, you can get some idea from the "DIY" section on the top of these pages. Having the proper torque specs and brake pad paste helps.

Checkout "STARTUNED MAGAZINE" and other links at

wait for an ML owner to reply, also MB uses a few different style brakes all easy to work on, you won't need any SPECIAL tools.

[G-Benz]

I have over 70K on my 99 and have yet to change rotors...probably will on my next brake pad change...that would mean a rotor swap for every third pad replacement interval.

Pads on the ML are a "press fit" versus a slot fit on earlier MBs...that is, they clip onto each side of the calipers via pressure clips. Because of this, the calipers have to be removed in order to access the pads.

The rear calipers can be unbolted with a socket wrench (can't remember size). The fronts require a T40 torx socket.

I did my last pad replacement in about an hour (including jacking up, wheel removal, etc.)