Tank Assembly problems of the 2000 Mercedes Benz ML320

While driving on the freeway, on 2 separate occasions, my fuel tank leaked, apparently due to being struck by an external object. During non of the occasions, did I run over an object or notice any large sharp object on the freeway. The first time, the dealership would not cover the expenses, so I had to file a claim through my insurance company, which cost approx. $2000 with the tow and rental. However, within 10 months it occured again and I again had it taken to mercedes dealership, which they first claimed that they would not cover the cost. I called the mercedes corporate office and put in a complaint with the regional manager regarding the matter, and made them realize that this is not acceptable for the fuel tank to be so fragile and obviously not durable that it can be ruptured so easily during normal freeway traffic. Since this is a 4-wheel drive, it should be able to go off-roading and into mountains which could contain rocky roads or difficulty driving conditions and that I expect the car to withstand the drive. The put it into my record. I went to pick up my car from the dealership yesterday and mercedes decided to cover all my expenses this time, so I did not have to put in a claim. I am wondering if this is a common occurance with this model and the fuel tank. Please reseach and let me know as I do not want to be going through this again. Thank you, n.

Plastic fuel tank "cracked" open spilling gas.

Intermittently in cold temperatures when the defroster system is engaged it will disengage for a few seconds, then come back on. This reduces the driver's visibility and could cause an accident. Defroster system continuously does this until vehicle is turned off. This occurred on 3 separate occasions. Dealership serviced vehicle and replaced parts, but the problem still persists. In addition, consumer experienced fuel tank gauge shows only 3/4 full. Dealer stated that internal electrical fault in the fuel sending unit. Fuel sending unit replaced.