Just finished my first oil change on my 2003 ML 500. In order to get to the drain plug I had to remove a large plastic cover under the oil pan. I had to break all the plastic screws in order to remove this cover. My (question) is this plastic cover necessary ??? Is it OK to leave it off ???

After asking myself the same question a few years ago, I looked under some of the newer ML loaners I drove while having mine worked on at the dealer. They didn't have one so I figured I'd leave it off. One less thing to mess with when I do my oil changes.

That plactic cover serves 2 purposes.

Keeps SOME un-wanted things from the engine area.

ON the highway it provides some "areo-dynamics" & allows for better fuel mileage.

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MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

Also gives the false impression that MBs don't leak oil.

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Auto Zentral Ltd.

OK Guys thanks for your help. If I can find some more of the plastic screws (with out going to the dealer) I'll put it back on. If not it will stay off.

I use cable ties as they are cheap and easy to use

Well this is my first post to this group. A lot of interesting information here. As far as oil changing is concerned, we are going to new oil removal system which includes banjo type fitting at oil pan drain and a pump up in the engine compartment that will allow us to fill recycle jugs and be done with this oil drain mess. On our Honda Hybrids we are also remoting the filter up top to get away from the under pan. The under pan is probably necessary as it is doubtful that they would go to the trouble if it was not necessary. It needs to be kept in mind that the negative pressure can effect cooling and noise. Tow things to consider before removing in permanently. We have not done the oil drain mods. yet, so will report experience here as time goes on. Bill T. '82 300SD, 2000 Honda Insight 5 speed, 2003 Honda Civic CVT Hybrid