I recently responded to the Mercedes M Class web site, where they request feedback on the M Class. My letter and their reply follows: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

COMMENTS:.....I purchased my new ML-320 in July 1998, VIN4JGAB54E3WA050388.
I now have 60,000 miles and am due for a fuel filter replacement. I am told
the original fuel filter is no longer available, and extensive changes are
required to install the replacement filter. If the original filter was
inadequate why were the trucks not recalled and fitted with the properly
specified filter? If the original filter was adequate to not require a
recall, why aren't they still available for these early models? How can
Mercedes, in good conscience, make the purchaser of these vehicles pay to
correct a design defect?



Dear Mr. Hock:

Thank you for your recent email regarding the fuel filter replacement in
your ML320.

While we recognize your disappointment, we seek your understanding that
modifications to previous designs are not an indication of a design defect.
Additionally, as stated on page 21 of the Owner's Service and Warranty
Information manual that accompanied your vehicle, "the manufacturer has
reserved the right to make any changes in design or to make additions to,
or upon its products without incurring any obligations to install the same
equipment on trucks previously built."

We regret this may not be the response you anticipated, and solicit your
understanding. If you have further technical questions, please ask to
speak to our Product Advice Specialists at 1 (800) FOR-MERCedes
(800-367-6372). Best wishes for safe and pleasant driving.

Sincerely,



Christine Dingler
Customer Relations
1-800-FOR-MERCedes x6361

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

They miss the point, or they didn't want to address it. I wasn't asking for my vehicle to be brought up to later specifications. All I wanted to know is why can't I buy the replacement fuel filter that will replace the one that came with my vehicle without having to pay for extensive changes to bring the vehicle up to current specifications.If this filter was good enough for 60,000 miles, why can't I buy the same one for its replacement? I should not be forced to update the vehicle design either if I chose not to. On the other hand, if the original filter is so bad that it should not be used, Mercedes should pay for any modification required to fix their design problem. I would have expected more from Mercedes.

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Tom H.