Engine problems of the 1999 Mercedes Benz ML320

Four problems related to engine have been reported for the 1999 Mercedes Benz ML320. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Engine problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2007

Continuing problems with power steering. Taken to the dealer for inquiry over 3 years ago; no resolution presented. Problems have persisted and gotten progressively worse. Only when researching, was I made aware of the recall. No notification from manufacture or dealer. Substantial costs incurred and vehicle continues to leak after numerous repairs. Moonroof unable to close 100% - taken to dealership. Advised the problem was seen routinely with this particular moonroof. Advised to fore-go repair due to cost. Upon extensive research, this problem is quite customary and unsure as to why the vehicle was not recalled or repairs made by the manufacturer. Would like a written response outlining options and resources to remedy these issues.

2 Engine problem

Failure Date: 08/14/2006

I and my 7 year old daughter and her friend were entering my driveway on Aug 14,2006, paused to open my garage door from the car and I was slowly moving in. All of a sudden car went out of my control in a flash that I did not even have time to react. It went and hit our other parked car in the garage with such a huge force that the second car literally went and tore the bedroom wall. Our second car is badly damaged on the front, back and one side (scraping a pole in garage) and wall needs fixing too. I truly suspect there is some mechanical problem for the sudden/unintended acceleration that led to this unexpected behavior. So far we found the ignition got jammed (could not start and had to be towed in), other than the bumper/front damages. Car is still in the body shop for repairs, once finished it will be taken to the dealer for further analysis and check up.

3 Engine problem

Failure Date: 10/08/2003

1999 Mercedes Benz Ml320 - harmonic balancer failure resulting in loss of power steering, overheating, damage to fan, and oil pan.

4 Engine problem

Failure Date: 03/04/2003

Harmonic balancer seal came loose and caused extensive engine damage. This happened while driving on a congested highway at ~60 mph! the local mercedes dealer(regal Nissan/mercedes, huntsville, al, ph #256726-0077) claimed this was a unique failure as faras they were concerned. The fix including replacement of the oil pan was ~$900. Upon subsequent research I've discovered that this is an extremely common problem.




ML320 Service Bulletins
ML320 Safety Recalls
ML320 Defect Investigations