18 Months Ago I Accidentally Bought a Cheap 2000 Mercedes ML55 AMG
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- Опубліковано 15 вер 2024
- Welcome to the Channel! Today we're discussing my cheap 2000 Mercedes ML55 AMG as part of the fleet introduction series. I know its technically not Saab related, however it helps me keep miles off my Saabs, I drive it in winter and make it do all the hard things.
How to fold the Rear Seats down in a W163 Mercedes @ 11:25
All suspension components were purchased from Rock Auto.
Eccentric Bolts were from FCP Euro (Geuine Mercedes)
Brake Pads, Rotors, hoses, lines and fittings were purchased from local parts stores.
Brake Calipers were remanufactured units from Rock Auto.
Here is a link to my BenzWorld thread on repairing it if you're looking for more info:
www.benzworld....
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the best SUV of its time
My 2002 ml55 is bullet proof. 125 k miles and ive owned it for about 15 months with no issues. I love it!
I've been very impressed with the ML55 honestly. I didnt have high expectations and it far surpassed them and its to the point that I'll probably keep this till it dies... Then resurrect it again lol
Hi from eurpoe, do you recomed buying one in 2021?
If you can find one that's decently priced, yes.
The most underrated Mercedes of the last 20 years these trucks are awesome. Durable and comfortable, they all have superb engines and gearboxes and make absolutely brilliant tow vehicles, one of the best value vehicles I have ever owned.
I have to agree with that. I was pleasantly surprised with mine. When I fixed it up I originally intended to flip it and sell it but it was just too good. I'll probably end up selling it soon though, and when I do someone is going to get an exceptional value since it'll all be repaired.
I've had my 2003 model 55 AMG for five years now and it is just a beast everything works on the car handles really good
Yup, I love mine. It keeps going even with everything I've thrown at it. It's a beast for sure.
I remember how incredibly strong the suspension control arms are! Guys, forget about the bit numb handling! It’s a nice powerful cruiser, and impressive off road performance!
We bought a red 2000 55 in 2006 for 16k. It had 57,000 miles and was traded in by the original owner in Palm Beach Fl. We have had the vehicle for 13 years and I have taken the suv to Canada twice, Oregon, NM, Cali, Wa, Id, MT, UT and AZ. Since we live in Phoenix this vehicle has absolutely ZERO rust anywhere! I just changed the rear springs a few weeks ago and they came right off. I have taken the trans out twice and had to replace the stator and the front pump. I have a star c4 and have no codes present. My wife drives the suv to work everyday. The only things that need to be replaced every 10 years or so are the Crank position sensor, cam pos sensor, and the MAF. The brake switch goes bad on these as well as the locking mechanisms. Both are easy to change. The oem trailer hitch has towed boats, travel trailers, U-haul trailers and car trailers. We recently bought an m113k with head studs that just got rebuilt and I will install it if this engine ever dies. It does not leak or use any oil, and I change the trans fluid every two years. Red just like a TH400 or a Torqueflite every time I drain it. The car drives great and cruises 80 all day in 110 heat. THe a/c works good and I added fans from a ML430 to the front for extra condenser cooling, which helped. I have changed the cats, and the motor mounts, and fuel filter and pump. This vehicle has zero issues and we hope to keep it as long as we can. Thanks for sharing your story.
I looked at the ML when they came out in 1997. Supplies were tight and prices skyrocketed so eventually passed. Looked again in the 2002 time frame. A 430 or an AMG was tempting but ended up with a LandCruiser, an excellent tow vehicle and a prime off-roader. I still have that vehicle and more than two decades later I have had to do very little.
Looking through your long list of repairs and replacement of parts, I'm glad I went Toyota over M-B.
You forgot to mention that in 2000 it was the fastest production SUV in the world😀
Pretty sure it was till the Grand Cherokee SRT8 came out
Not sure, but several sources I saw including Car and Driver said it was the fastest production SUV of 2000. I have one the same as yours bought for $1,500 but has an electrical issue, not on the road yet. Had over $15,000 in Mercedes dealership repair receipts in the five years before I bought it LOL.
It was the world's fastest SUV until 2002 when BMW made the 4.6is X5 the BMW according to Car and Driver test on a 2002 ml55 and a 2002 4.6 is 6.20 and 6.24 bmw faster and I mean barely and from zero to a 100 mph the Mercedes takes 16.48 seconds the BMW take 17.23 and from 0 to 100 miles per hour and back to zero the Mercedes is also quicker
one of these was gifted to me several months ago. I'm still fixing all the stuff it needs but Im almost done with it!!!! only a few things left to fix, i love this vehicle!!!!!
I have a 2000 ML320 and I really hope to find an ML55 and purchase it! It is SO beautiful! I love my ML320, still works great and everything but THIS is just beautiful!!! All the love xoxo
Haha Funny , I bought a Land Rover HSE 4.4 , but i was fully reassured to do so since I have ML320 black tinted windows beautiful SUV , very very comfi ! Does new ML model are more comfi ??? Not sure !!!
That suv is a beast
I agree.
Thanks for sharing this. I've been thinking about getting a 2001-2003 ML55. From my research, the drivetrain is rock solid. For me, that's the most important thing. Yes, some of the assembly may not have been the best at the time, but for a vehicle of this age and mileage, finding good ones are worth the effort. In the most part, they're reliable, capable, and quick.
Yeah, it's hard to beat the drivetrain. It's definitely stout.
@@SaabDr I picked up a few years ago a second generation lifted Jeep Grand Cherokee. She's ugly, rusted roof, but not a spec of rust underneath. She doesn't leak a drop of oil and runs strong for being almost 30 years old. I've been thinking about the ML55 for some time. Off road, they're not as capable as my Jeep, but the drivetrain on the ML is just a beast for something stock. I owned a 99 CLK for years and loved it. I miss having a Benz.
HOLLYWOOD UNAPOLOGETIC! - Filmmaking Essentials hey the ML55 has a zF transfer case and VDO speed sensors . It was built with the best of everything. This guy is a very good example of a pain in the ass.😾
YT algo popped this in my feed, I guess cause I just watched the return of Hoovie's MB AMG ML55. I'm not complaining.
Great video! I know on Facebook you told me that this thing was basically a tank and now I believe it! I'd never go out of my way to buy one but for your purposes and the way you obtained it, I'd say it's great!
Its something that I had never even thought of buying till this deal was presented to me, and honestly its been great. I wish the 9-7x I had bought to replace it worked this well (and didn't have DOD fail) but it'll get fixed.
love that you are a SAAB/Mercedes guy.Have a 2000 Viggen and a C300 Wagon (Canada)
Six people are Mercedes haters, excellent video my man! No one actually knows how bad the control arms get on w163
Thanks! And agreed, those control arms are a pain -- especially when the bolt rusts into the sleeve. Lots of antiseize in the sleeve when the arms went in.
Obviously that Ian Robertson dude has more free time than brain cells. I have seen ur posts from the forum way before I Found your channel. The restoration process was thorough and helpful with my own ml55. You did not buy a money pit because parts are cheap and the chassis is DIY friendly and stout. Incredibly useful and fun truck. Rare one too! I hope your channel prospers.
*robinson
Thanks. I get his perspective from being a hardcore Saab guy (which I am) but I have an open mind for other cars and can appreciate other things. Plus I like buying cars that other people are afraid of.
ML is so hot loved it when i drove Ml 500
I just recently sold my viggen project for a 2002 ml55 with only 63k miles
All the dislikes only dream of owning one ☝️
Had a few w163s not bad cars, underrated. The facelift was a big improvement and the cdi270 engine was a beast, surprised your rear quarter trims haven’t lost their lacquer
I've thoroughly enjoyed this ML. Honestly it makes me want to find a Diesel one.
Saab Dr last one I had was a “special edition” 270cdi facelift, nav, Bose, black with black leather white stitch, black wood and a few other special edition extras, if I had the space I’d keep it till it died. Amazing trucks. Same engine was used in our ambulances, sprinter vans, that 5pot cdi is a great engine, really is a great all rounder for the money, hard pushed to beat it, I must emphasise though, the facelift was massive improvements inside and out, which incidentally it looks like someone has added the facelift lights to yours
Yeah I was told that when I got it, but wasn't sure.
I also have one and still deciding if to to keep it or nah its my first car so idk it was gift. Amg rims loooks nicee on the ml i put some on mine
Also a quick question does every amg have that cap on the hood with the amg because mine doesnt
I'm actually thinking about getting one of these.different flavor..lol
I bought a 1999 ML320 for $1,000 (159,000 miles) and in (2) months invested an additional $3,500 .....But let me tell you she runs like a clock .......The $3,500 went into Michelin LTX tires, new Synthetic Amsoil, new battery, new brakes and rotors and flushing all fluids plus replacing the coolant reservoir and windshield washer fluid tank.......I love the vehicle......But mine looks like the day it came from the showroom floor.
Very beautiful SUV !! Loads of features they don’t build them like that anymore .. I have a very reliable 320 ML and a 4.4 Range Rover !!
Bro my wife collects the Ml 320 class so in my opinion you purchased a sweet ride you just have to be more knowledgeable about the vehicle and once you are you'll be able to know the ins-and-outs then it's smooth sailing from there.
The best vehicle ever, just like a Land cruiser!
Honestly, I like it. I actually had it for sale (still do), and no one wanted it which I don't understand
It slapped me in the face when I saw it. Bolts: $126.78..........
Yeah, the eccentric bolts were super expensive, but necessary. Plus the rest of the suspension was removed with a sawzall, so 10.9 bolts plus lock nuts weren't cheap.
@@SaabDr I've learned that there are quite a few "single" use bolts on Mercedes vehicles. So I understand the cost.
i just bought a 2000 ml55 amg with the upgraded chip. its 420 hp . it needs a ton of work but i got it for 2k . so hopefully i can make it decent
They're great SUVs. Making it decent shouldn't be that hard depending on what's wrong. Which tune does it have?
@@SaabDr stage 1 ecu tune.
I owned a 2007 Saab 9-7x 5.3i. Is the 2000 Benz better?
So how did it pass inspection if it was that bad? Some things are maintenance like brakes and tie rods. So no one took care of it??
We don't have inspection here other than emissions if you're in an emissions county. The guy I got it from had it for 2 months, the person before that had it over 10 years and stopped maintaining it 2-3 years before I got it.
how is the ml with a 320 engine for durability in this year
I'll buy it from you.
I'll keep that in mind. It's actually one of my favorite cars of the fleet. You can put it to work and it keeps on going.
That's a rare color
I thought it was a pretty rare color. I've never seen another one in this color except Hoovie's old one (which isn't the same one)
Why didn't you trade it for a 97x once you got it? Seems like they would do the same thing
I'll be honest. I have this and a 9-7x 5.3i. Most 9-7 owners would look at this ML as a downgrade, and I don't blame them. However after owning both a 9-7x 5.3 and this I'll say that even though I love the 9-7 (it's creature comforts are leaps and bounds above the ML) I wouldn't trade the ML for a 9-7. The ML is just too good of a workhorse.
Is this Tyler's one?
It's not, but you're certainly not the first one to wonder...
Mines 2001 and does not have anyyy of those feature well not as much :(
Which options are you missing? If it's the non functional drivers rear door and sticky hatch handle you're lucky. lol
what was the cost of all these repairs?
I guess I forgot to list that, it was around 3,000 US with tires.
For the rear doors, just spray some WD40 into the latch. TRUST me it'll work. Lol....
I tried that in winter, but I'm going to try again. The latch works perfect with the inside handle though.
Did Tyler Hoover sell this ML55 to you
He didn't. I told the story of the trade in the video -- got it from my friend Mike, who bought it 3 months prior from his boss who was the 2nd owner and wasn't Hoovie.
Oh
Yeah I think this is hoovies garage's car
It wasn't. I bought it from a friend, who had purchased it from the second owner who had it from 2002-2016. My friend had it for about 2 months in 2016-2017
@@SaabDr oh I see thanks for the info
Oh thank god you never said "quirks and features"
But it has a chest full of qwerks and many features.
@@SaabDr Don't say it!
This guy is out here buying cars by accident 🤔
You'd be surprised. Lol
You bought this for your wife you know you did Hej! da sweden all the way you have turn to the darkside man!!!!
Actually she hates it. Its a great utility vehicle, and that keeps its place in the fleet solidified. But its still 10 Saabs to 1 Mercedes... lol
Great review on an SUV I am looking to buy, lot's of info thank you.
On a side note, I have owned several Saabs myself (900s, 900se, 9-3se, 9-3 aero) and I couldn't help but notice that you have a "Chevy Equinox" in the background with a Saab badge glued on.....absolute blasphemy to any Saab enthusiast...There is a reason Saab sank, because GM is garbage and they ruined them. I mean C'mon...you say the only thing you buy is Saab, but you know as well as anyone else that you bought a GM product through and through, assembled in Mexico. Both engine options are GM garbage. You have this Ian guy slamming you or buying a "German money pit" but he should be slamming you for buying a GM piece of crap! Ran: complete P.S. don't be mad, just sell the Equinox lol.
It's actually a Cadillac SRX. And the history on the development of the 9-4x/SRX platform is more Saab than Cadillac. Saab had actually developed that platform (which is the Theta Premium) and GM took it and built the SRX off of it. Is it a modified version of another GM platform? Yes -- but having a one off platform in today's day and age isn't cost effective for a small manufacturer. As for the engines -- yes, the 3.0 V6 is lackluster and I wouldn't buy one. But the 300hp 2.8 Turbo engine is great. I get the the disapproval of it -- lots of people feel that way. But its way more Saab than one would expect, and I definitely won't be selling it. -- Also to me if it wears a Saab badge it's a Saab... :-).
On the ML -- it's a great work horse. Mine is going to get some revamping for winter -- which I probably should have done about 2 months ago. Lol Thanks for tuning in!
Lmao You traded a good SAAB for a german money pit
I actually have that Saab back now, and my friend Mike is on his second Saab (upgraded to a 2006 Aero)
@@SaabDr 06 aero Sportcombi?
@@TheoPhilpot he has a 2006 Aero Sedan.
...first mistake...taking it to a "tire place" second mistake...asking them 'what "needs' to be replaced?" third mistake....claiming these parts needed to be replaced because a "tire shop' said so. ...fourth mistake..if you HAVE A SHEARD BLEAD SCREW, then crack the brake line to bleed the air OR USE A C-CLAMP to squeze the caliper pushing the air and fluid out at the resevoir.....5th? "mismatched" shock? ...alright what you need is a box of tampon, NOT a benz...my benz I have 220k miles, and have not had to replace ANYTHING SINCE 150K...and only 2 oil changes, ...
Everything that they said was wrong with it was actually wrong. After they looked at it I went over everything myself. They didn't do any of the work, they just did the inspection (which was free on top of it)-- which was more of a "what needs to be done so I can get an alignment" since otherwise they'll send it back with a list of reasons why they can't do the alignment -- which makes sense. Can't do an alignment with bad tie rods or ball joints or a stuck eccentric bolt.
On your hack job as to what to do with a sheared bleed screw I'll hard pass. I like to fix things right and make them serviceable for the future if I'm fixing them.
As for the shocks it had worn out OE shocks in the rear and bilstein in the front which made it hard to predict how it would handle in certain situations.
I wasn't complaining at all about the ML, just talking about what I needed to do to get it back road worthy. It's fine if you disagree, or like to drive a car that's potentially unsafe on the roads, but I don't. I've put 20k miles on this over the past two years, towed my camper across country and let my wife and family use it. I'd rather have the peace of mind knowing it's right than sending it down the road wondering if it'll flip over because I decided to cheap out and didn't replace that upper control arm.
Also I don't think that taking the advice from someone that does 2 oil changes in 70k miles is a good idea. Change your oil. Your poor benz is begging for an oil change. LOL
In general, I suggest staying away from all of the Alabama made Benz.
Honestly it's been a really good vehicle. Could be because it's an AMG though.
It's not a SAAB so its crap
Dude you know its crap
Mercedes is the Best
They where uqly when they were new and still uqly now the w164 and after look way better.
I don't think anyone said they looked good...