99 Ml 430 runs excellent 325000 really impressed bought it from neighbor he bought a brand new one 130,000 it's sick though. I got this one on a steal 1500. I gave e him exactly what he asked for good neighbor likes me. I wouldn't sell it for less then 4500
I actually found one of these for sale near where my parents lived. I needed a newer more economical vehicle since I was driving a '94 Silverado that had a 350 v8 with 370,000 miles on it. When I went and looked at it, it was in amazing condition considering. Had 150,000 miles on it. But still, it was the best condition one I could find. You can say my opinion is biased cause I love Jurassic Park, and I loved these trucks. So I bought it, right then and there. I've had it for a year and there were two things that went bad on me. The switch to roll the passenger side window up, went out while my dad and I were driving in the north Georgia mountains. The EGR valve sent up a check engine light. Got the switch off amazon for 35 dollars. The EGR valve was pretty expensive in comparison to my Silverado's, at 136 dollars and an extra 278 to have it replaced. No offense Mercedes, but you didn't really make these trucks easy to work on. But still, I don't regret buying it. I don't get some of the hate that people throw at these trucks. They are really nice and neat. And If you take care of it and drive it like it's worth something, than it'll last ya. Kudos to you if you managed to read my whole retarded-ass comment.
I have the exact car in the video; aside from some interior and exterior accessory issues, it runs great! You're definitely right about being a difficult car to work on, just changing the battery is a hassle, LMAO.
I used to have one of these too. I called it the shuttlecraft. For some reason the continuous wraparound back window and the way it felt when I was driving it reminded me of being in a space shuttle so my friends and I got to calling it that. Only had it for a few years before I traded it on because dealing with the CD player in the trunk and other things were driving me nuts, but this video made me very nostalgic.
You didn't talk about the 4-ETS system, which in my opinion is the best feature. It mimic's having front, center, and rear locking differentials. Which in low range keeps the wheels within 1 mph of each other, or about 4 inches of tire turn. The benefit of this system is not only less weight, reliability & strength plus easy to access wear components but no switches or complicated locking hubs and it allows abs and esp to function at all times. The ESP system was also ahead of it's time, it's almost impossible to spin out on ice, even with summer tires. It responds faster to spin out/ drift then you can even feel. The 4 channel ABS is also amazing and has a special gravel mode that builds a little hill in front of wheels. Gravel is normally a bad surface for abs. The indenpendent suspension and alluminum suspension components results in an extremely low unsprung weight. You can drive into a curb 2-3 times the speed of a solid axle vehicle before bending anything. Also unlike a solid axle vehicle if you bend anything you can still make it home. The truck is also extremely safe in front and side collisions. You also can't really buy lift kits for them anymore. You have to make them, which is extremely easy. You can also body lift them. The wheel wells are over sized allowing 33 x 12.5 no problem. With a lift and some cutting of the inner plastic liner you can fit 35s, even 37s in the extreme. You will also need a skid plate for the gas tank and in the front for the tiny lines that run to the steering rack. You can also modify the switch on the brake pedal to allow you to modulate the brakes while gassing it to get less spin if 1 or 2 wheels leave the ground on the rocks. Otherwise your 4-ets won't work. 2001 and newer don't require this mod. Aftermarket muffler and losing the pre muffler and secondary cats give you more hp and mpg You can also modify the center diff to lock and install modified 4 matic w124 locking diffs. Modifying the bumpers also improves approach angles. They were originally designed to be low to reduce damage to impacts to cars.
@@georgeklimes7604 yea, no problem. In my ML-430 I've added a k&n air filter and the electric fan from the 2002+ models for extra hp. I've also removed my secondary cat and resonator and modified my muffler a bit but I want to replace it as I hear it helps out big time. My favorite mod though is covering the front inner fender liners in a dynamat acoustic dampener. I did the doors too and now I can no longer hear any road noise at all from the front wheels. It's completely silent. I can't wait to do the rear fenders though this time I might cover the fenders from the inside, or maybe just do the fender liners again. I also have the larger calipers and rotors and required hubs+lines from the front of the newer ML55 I've yet to install. They are quite a bit larger. I actually just replaced my rear rubber brake lines because 1 got so old it broke when I stood on the brake pedal in a pretend panic stop from 120km/h. It was quite a pain in the ass because a lot the things I had to mess with were rusted and fragile. When I went to bleed them I bloody broke the bleed valve off in the caliper and had to go to the junk yard to get another.
Can you explain the 4-ets system a little more please? I don't understand how its a low range but doesn't have any locking diffs anywhere? Like every vehicle I can think of when in low range is Locked by locking the center diff/transfer case
Runs on premium only with horrible gas mileage granted it's heavy. Excellent in the snow and yes it can rock climb with proper clearance. The AWD is a unique for ghe time computer controlled system that automatically limits power to any wheel that slips. I had one in this condition 01 fully loaded with 55 thousands miles that I sold 3 years ago. Bought it used in 2013. It never left me stranded and always fired right up in the coldest Canadian winters without a heated block. I got $300 less for than I paid when I sold it! So it was a very good little truck all in all.
Maybe get off your pedestal and get a smaller engine version if you're so concerned with mpg. And how old is this truck anyway? Show me one SUV from 1999 that gets great mpg? Plus it gets better mpg than your average ford pick up truck Well I'm just glad I'm not subjected to the crap US government and their boycott on Diesel. I can actually get good trucks with good mileage and towing capacity
This is exactly what I bought wife in 2000 (same color, interior etc.)! Mine has all options except GPS, has 171K miles and has been maintained/repair by myself after warranty expired. It's a good SUV to keep if you can work on cars.
I had a 2001 ml320. Mine was very reliable. It was like a tank! Lots of cargo space inside. Motor and transmission are built in Germany then shipped to the states. It's all wheel drive.
Sorry last comment. The motor , drivline and transmission for these were built in Germany by Mercedes and shipped in a crate to the US for assembly. Thanks for the review!
great review, got the ML 350 Final Edition, 15 years, a great car, confortable, big trunk, after Gearbox oil change for 120000kms eveything is still perfect.
Biggest problem with these is a tiny drain for the sunroof located behind both front fenders. It thins at the tip and starts to block leaves and other debris from exiting. As the debris builds water can no longer flow out properly causing a buildup of back pressure that eventually blows the water hose off the grommet. Now sunroof drain water overflows into the dash and down the front floorboards. Amplifier, radio, blower motor and fuses along with other dash electronics are in jeopardy. I took both fenders off and cut the tip off of the grommet. This should be a priority when buying one of these as the unknown debris buildup of around 20 years can be costly.
I have an '05 ML 350 special edition.. Owned for a good few years now and has been faultless. I have always kept it serviced even though it has only 90000Km. Daily driven around town on 22" rims during the week until they get swapped for desert duelers and go hiking in the back country. Even fits a double bed in the back for overnights. Will be keeping it for many years to come.
280,000 km on mine 2001 model love four-wheel driving and it feels like a truck never lets me down it’s a keeper except for the biodegradable wiring in the headlights
I purchased a 2004 ML500 a last week. I love it.. They did few upgrades on the interior compared to this one but still looks good. Thanks for sharing...
Man, I loved these things when they were new, but they were plagued with electronic issues and inconsistencies throughout their lifetimes. A friend of ours bought one new, at launch, and after having the vehicle in and out Benz's service departments for a while, he bought a first generation Cayenne and still owns it today! Of course he has other vehicles as well, but these MLs were hit or miss.
the reason the steering wheel had no buttons was because this truck was intended for off road, not mall trips, so they didnt wanted you touching by mistake, buttons while off roading. the second gen came with no body on flrame, no low range, and wheel buttons
There is AC/ HEAT vents under the front seat for backseat passenger. Autodim rear veiw was an option. The stereo head unit could easily be updated . It's a modular sysmtem plugvand play. A cool feature was the rear wiper automatically engages in reverse when the from wipers are on.
The cup holders are not great, unlike what you said. They don't hold many larger cups, and water bottles will fly out of them on any sideways movement. I have a 2001 ML430. Paid $1995 for an extended warranty. Worth every penny, as I had over $9000 worth of repairs during the warranty period. My trans failed at 98,000 miles. Sunroof motor failed (though I rarely used it) and is super expensive to fix (over $1200). Lots of throttle position, crankshaft position, SRS, and other sensor issues, but that got better as time went on. Maybe they slipstreamed better parts in. Engine is bulletproof. Trust me. I drive "enthusiastically" as the old BMW commercials called it. :-) Mine has navigation (CD behind the radio), but it's not much use now since Mercedes stopped making updates and went to DVD. Have the 3rd row seats (great for small kids). Power folding mirrors. And having the lockable safe under the front passenger seat is handy in sketchy areas!!! I really wanted the ML55, but the cost was WAY higher, and you lose the 3rd row seat option since the spare tire is stored there (versus under the rear of the truck with the other models). Gas mileage is horrible, but I knew that going into it (I get 10-11 MPG in the city and 13-15 on the highway). Mine weighs over 5000 pounds. It's a beast in the snow. Mine just has one rust spot on the driver's door. The interior is in pretty good condition. Tires are not cheap and can be tricky to find due to the weird size (275/55 and 17 inch). I drove the 6 cylinder, and the car was dog slow. So I went with the V-8. Note that 2.3 manuals, 4.0 turbo diesels, and 2.7 turbo diesels were offered in Europe. Evasive and/or high speed maneuvers are actually very good. I love the truck (plan to keep it as long as parts are available), but I wanted to add my input.
@@TD-il6ju I guess because it's a real truck, I have the optional 3rd row seats (maybe 100 pounds or so right there), and it has a V-8 engine. Where I live it's classified as a truck, not a car. So I pay a little more for registration fees.
@@lukasschmidt50 Nein. Jedes Auto hat Probleme, aber dieses Auto wurde nicht gut gemacht. Ich liebe den Truck, aber ich bin ehrlich. Daimler hat ihre gewohnte Qualität bei diesem Modell nicht übertroffen.
I really love this car! I love the after lines, compared to every newer generation. This era car design was great imo I also love the mk1 BMW X5, and I also think it's the best looki generation
I own one it’s a car I would not let go of in decent condition could use a little carpet cleaning other that it’s amazing the plastic is clean and I try am maintained it as much as I can! They deserve a great review like this one!
I have this exact model and year in fairly good condition. Excuse me for divulging, LOL! We bought the car in 2017, for a base price of $3,000 (although a whopping 200,000 miles, it should've been cheaper comparing what we paid to the Kelley Blue-Book value), and had repairs made which costed $4,200. After replacing the battery and crankshaft sensor, it now runs beautifully. The console has some issues, mostly resulting from the previous handler, however I think my dad shouldn't come within 50 feet of the thing! He recently broke the fog-lamp switch, thinking that he needed to remove the entire area to pull out the original Mercedes-Benz radio in order to retrieve the code after replacing the car battery. He also somehow managed to bust the driver side cup-holder, so the spring mechanism malfunctions and it's difficult to open and close, otherwise, all other mentioned issues were not his fault. The ashtray cover had been knocked loose, and needs adhesive to bond the wood back on. Finally, the glove compartment door has a small problem closing, but it does not pop open, nor is difficult to close. Aside from those minor issues, the dash/instrument cluster looks fantastic. For seats, all need a leather restoration, and the driver and passenger need a plastic part replacement, as they were abused well by the previous owner(s), but still feel comfortable. The passenger door compartment also needs some repair, but that's all for interior complications. The exterior has some hassles, the major being the lift-gate (trunk) latch causing a struggle. It sets off the alarm. The next, more of a minor problem, being a paint job; the clear-coating had stripped away due to heat and cold. Aside from future services and restorations (not too pricey, but most issues falling just around $500 from third party mechanics), I'm loving this ride. Congrats on finding one with so few issues!
I remembered my mom used to have a 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 and then it has been handed down to my dad after about 7 years from 2006 to 2013 and my dad has owned it from 2014 to 2015 and then it was handed down to my uncle and he owned it from 2015 to 2018 and my dad sent that vehicle to the junkyard on November 12, 2018 but I took a picture of the ML twice in 2018 like on August 2nd and November 12th
It didn’t deserve the junk yard. These were one of the best cars I’ve ever owned and still own. I daily drive a C class but we still keep an ML320 in our driveway.
Are you satisfied with ml400? I’m planinng buy one within this week. I need back seats space and bagage space. But not i am sure that its provides them. Also requaring semi offroad capabilities...
If they did go joint with Mitsubishi would be nothing wrong with that. Mitsubishi has been building SUVS and 4WD way longer than Mercedes has. Although I am a huge Mercedes fan Mitsubishi has more experience in that and Montero proves that.
Identical to my 2001 which I bought new and continue to enjoy. I’ve always taken it to the dealer for maintenance - expensive, but always performs flawlessly.
i had a 2005 ml DUB edition. the last year that w163 was made. i loved it, super good truck, tough as shit. drove it hard, used as my personal Vehi. for fire emergency runs. my only complain was the brakes, they tended to overheat when pushed to the limit. besides that, great car. now I have GL
4:27 The W163 doesn't have Manual shift mode... This is a shift limiter so it makes the engine not go higher than the gear chosen with the stick. It's not what you think it is and you cant change gears while driving. If you use this extra like that expect your car and gearbox to f up....
I have a super clean 1999 ml430 running excellent has 325000 miles and seems like it's barely broke in. Sick power and speed smooth and pure luxury ride.
Back in the old times my parents used to have a 1998 ML320. From what I known it had all additional options, had the M1 option package, this added the leather interior along with metallic paint, CD changer, lockable safe box under passenger seat, unpainted bumpers and fender flares, sunroof, and a trip computer which was a rare option for the 98-00 ML.
I have a Ml 55 and its sach a great car , my m113 have 398 k km , no problems ať all with engine and gearbox , bulet proove , I realy recomend ,and if its good serviced , no problém with high milege one.
my family had one of these for 20 years and the only thing that wasn't basic maintenance we had to do was fix a fuel line and the air compressor after 170k miles
Por fuera, para ser Mercedes benz, la carrocería no dice nada, lo único que se ve bien por fuera, es el símbolo al frente de la "MB" porque por fuera parece una guagua cualquiera, pero cuando uno la ve por dentro, ve otra cosa, se ve espaciosa y comoda. Gracias por mostrarla por todos lados.
@@yrrah89 I am in the Washington DC metro area. Those cars are everywhere. I've been to Puerto Rico and seen a few but mostly near San Juan and typically the 6 cylinder ones. Where's your home town?
Arecibo. surprisingly enough I have seen like 4 the past few weeks. It's funny bc they drive by me and the drivers stare at me and i stare at them back. hahah so weird to see one of these on the road nowadays.
The first generation Lexus RX300 killed this Mercedes ML class.... the Lexus RX series came among in 1999 and snatched a huge sale volume from Mercedes ML and conquered and has dominated the SUV market ever since....
Its good if you find a clean one which is hard to come by, and we all know that Mercedes technical malfunctions/repairs cost an Arm and a Leg to fix 😁💵
Yes. I have one... I was lucky enough to buy one as clean as this one. It's such an awesome truck. Mine even has third row seats and a third window that you can open with a touch of a button. This one dosen't have it. It's my first car too! Bought it for 4200 with 110,000 miles. I will most likely keep it forever...
So would anyone recommend this car I'm looking same car same year tomorrow. for my first car. it has 150k miles what do you think? sooner the response the better
Christal Martinez The mileage really isn’t what one ought to be scared of but how well it was treated. Powertrain should still be solid even with those miles. Just make sure it was well maintained, that everything works, rides and drives great, and that it was obvious the previous owner(s) took care of it. Otherwise if it’s rough and needs lots of work, steer clear!
I don't know if you bought it or not, but mine is a 2002 with 130k miles. I've done my own maintenance as you can see in my videos. My neighbor has a 2001 with 300k miles and he said the only out of the ordinary thing was replacing the radiator. The 6 cylinder engine (m112) and tranny are also in other class vehicles like E320 and C320. It really depends on how well the previous owner took care of the truck and if they did all the maintenance.
bama ml320...soooooo many repairs.....12k in parts and repairs so far.....got it for free or i would have never touched it.....cheaply made doors rattled at 30 k.....plastic on radiator....and everywhere else
Still rocking it at 326,000km👊🏿
99 Ml 430 runs excellent 325000 really impressed bought it from neighbor he bought a brand new one 130,000 it's sick though. I got this one on a steal 1500. I gave e him exactly what he asked for good neighbor likes me. I wouldn't sell it for less then 4500
You got yourself a trusted friend for life in that car
I actually found one of these for sale near where my parents lived. I needed a newer more economical vehicle since I was driving a '94 Silverado that had a 350 v8 with 370,000 miles on it. When I went and looked at it, it was in amazing condition considering. Had 150,000 miles on it. But still, it was the best condition one I could find. You can say my opinion is biased cause I love Jurassic Park, and I loved these trucks. So I bought it, right then and there. I've had it for a year and there were two things that went bad on me. The switch to roll the passenger side window up, went out while my dad and I were driving in the north Georgia mountains. The EGR valve sent up a check engine light. Got the switch off amazon for 35 dollars. The EGR valve was pretty expensive in comparison to my Silverado's, at 136 dollars and an extra 278 to have it replaced. No offense Mercedes, but you didn't really make these trucks easy to work on. But still, I don't regret buying it. I don't get some of the hate that people throw at these trucks. They are really nice and neat. And If you take care of it and drive it like it's worth something, than it'll last ya.
Kudos to you if you managed to read my whole retarded-ass comment.
I have the exact car in the video; aside from some interior and exterior accessory issues, it runs great! You're definitely right about being a difficult car to work on, just changing the battery is a hassle, LMAO.
I used to have one of these too. I called it the shuttlecraft. For some reason the continuous wraparound back window and the way it felt when I was driving it reminded me of being in a space shuttle so my friends and I got to calling it that. Only had it for a few years before I traded it on because dealing with the CD player in the trunk and other things were driving me nuts, but this video made me very nostalgic.
They are easy to work on everything is held together by a 10mm in canada
You didn't talk about the 4-ETS system, which in my opinion is the best feature. It mimic's having front, center, and rear locking differentials. Which in low range keeps the wheels within 1 mph of each other, or about 4 inches of tire turn. The benefit of this system is not only less weight, reliability & strength plus easy to access wear components but no switches or complicated locking hubs and it allows abs and esp to function at all times.
The ESP system was also ahead of it's time, it's almost impossible to spin out on ice, even with summer tires. It responds faster to spin out/ drift then you can even feel.
The 4 channel ABS is also amazing and has a special gravel mode that builds a little hill in front of wheels. Gravel is normally a bad surface for abs.
The indenpendent suspension and alluminum suspension components results in an extremely low unsprung weight. You can drive into a curb 2-3 times the speed of a solid axle vehicle before bending anything. Also unlike a solid axle vehicle if you bend anything you can still make it home.
The truck is also extremely safe in front and side collisions.
You also can't really buy lift kits for them anymore. You have to make them, which is extremely easy. You can also body lift them. The wheel wells are over sized allowing 33 x 12.5 no problem. With a lift and some cutting of the inner plastic liner you can fit 35s, even 37s in the extreme. You will also need a skid plate for the gas tank and in the front for the tiny lines that run to the steering rack. You can also modify the switch on the brake pedal to allow you to modulate the brakes while gassing it to get less spin if 1 or 2 wheels leave the ground on the rocks. Otherwise your 4-ets won't work. 2001 and newer don't require this mod.
Aftermarket muffler and losing the pre muffler and secondary cats give you more hp and mpg
You can also modify the center diff to lock and install modified 4 matic w124 locking diffs.
Modifying the bumpers also improves approach angles. They were originally designed to be low to reduce damage to impacts to cars.
Great info. I will look into the muffler and cats piece. My ML430 definitely needs 50-100 HP more!
@@georgeklimes7604 yea, no problem. In my ML-430 I've added a k&n air filter and the electric fan from the 2002+ models for extra hp. I've also removed my secondary cat and resonator and modified my muffler a bit but I want to replace it as I hear it helps out big time.
My favorite mod though is covering the front inner fender liners in a dynamat acoustic dampener. I did the doors too and now I can no longer hear any road noise at all from the front wheels. It's completely silent. I can't wait to do the rear fenders though this time I might cover the fenders from the inside, or maybe just do the fender liners again.
I also have the larger calipers and rotors and required hubs+lines from the front of the newer ML55 I've yet to install. They are quite a bit larger.
I actually just replaced my rear rubber brake lines because 1 got so old it broke when I stood on the brake pedal in a pretend panic stop from 120km/h. It was quite a pain in the ass because a lot the things I had to mess with were rusted and fragile. When I went to bleed them I bloody broke the bleed valve off in the caliper and had to go to the junk yard to get another.
@@SpenserRoger Thanks a bunch!
Thank u May God Bless You AMEN IN THE NAME OF JEAUS
Can you explain the 4-ets system a little more please? I don't understand how its a low range but doesn't have any locking diffs anywhere?
Like every vehicle I can think of when in low range is Locked by locking the center diff/transfer case
Runs on premium only with horrible gas mileage granted it's heavy. Excellent in the snow and yes it can rock climb with proper clearance. The AWD is a unique for ghe time computer controlled system that automatically limits power to any wheel that slips. I had one in this condition 01 fully loaded with 55 thousands miles that I sold 3 years ago. Bought it used in 2013. It never left me stranded and always fired right up in the coldest Canadian winters without a heated block. I got $300 less for than I paid when I sold it! So it was a very good little truck all in all.
Maybe get off your pedestal and get a smaller engine version if you're so concerned with mpg. And how old is this truck anyway? Show me one SUV from 1999 that gets great mpg?
Plus it gets better mpg than your average ford pick up truck
Well I'm just glad I'm not subjected to the crap US government and their boycott on Diesel. I can actually get good trucks with good mileage and towing capacity
This is exactly what I bought wife in 2000 (same color, interior etc.)! Mine has all options except GPS, has 171K miles and has been maintained/repair by myself after warranty expired. It's a good SUV to keep if you can work on cars.
I had a 2001 ml320. Mine was very reliable. It was like a tank! Lots of cargo space inside. Motor and transmission are built in Germany then shipped to the states. It's all wheel drive.
I had the 2002 model back in 2008, did some offroading with it, I loved the feel of driving it
Finally a proper in depht review of this SUV. Great job!
I know exactly what this in reference towards. TFL can go rot.
I owned a 2002 ML 320, what a beautiful suv
Sorry last comment. The motor , drivline and transmission for these were built in Germany by Mercedes and shipped in a crate to the US for assembly. Thanks for the review!
great review, got the ML 350 Final Edition, 15 years, a great car, confortable, big trunk, after Gearbox oil change for 120000kms eveything is still perfect.
Biggest problem with these is a tiny drain for the sunroof located behind both front fenders. It thins at the tip and starts to block leaves and other debris from exiting. As the debris builds water can no longer flow out properly causing a buildup of back pressure that eventually blows the water hose off the grommet. Now sunroof drain water overflows into the dash and down the front floorboards.
Amplifier, radio, blower motor and fuses along with other dash electronics are in jeopardy.
I took both fenders off and cut the tip off of the grommet. This should be a priority when buying one of these as the unknown debris buildup of around 20 years can be costly.
I have an '05 ML 350 special edition.. Owned for a good few years now and has been faultless. I have always kept it serviced even though it has only 90000Km. Daily driven around town on 22" rims during the week until they get swapped for desert duelers and go hiking in the back country. Even fits a double bed in the back for overnights. Will be keeping it for many years to come.
280,000 km on mine 2001 model love four-wheel driving and it feels like a truck never lets me down it’s a keeper except for the biodegradable wiring in the headlights
I purchased a 2004 ML500 a last week. I love it.. They did few upgrades on the interior compared to this one but still looks good. Thanks for sharing...
This started the suv trend just bought 2 and this cars value will go up
Man, I loved these things when they were new, but they were plagued with electronic issues and inconsistencies throughout their lifetimes. A friend of ours bought one new, at launch, and after having the vehicle in and out Benz's service departments for a while, he bought a first generation Cayenne and still owns it today! Of course he has other vehicles as well, but these MLs were hit or miss.
My '99 ML320 was a hit. Had it for nearly 3 years with no major issues and miss it dearly. Got through two nasty Ohio winters and never got stuck.
the reason the steering wheel had no buttons was because this truck was intended for off road, not mall trips, so they didnt wanted you touching by mistake, buttons while off roading. the second gen came with no body on flrame, no low range, and wheel buttons
7:30 there are foot heat vents in the rear and they do work well.
There is AC/ HEAT vents under the front seat for backseat passenger. Autodim rear veiw was an option. The stereo head unit could easily be updated . It's a modular sysmtem plugvand play. A cool feature was the rear wiper automatically engages in reverse when the from wipers are on.
The cup holders are not great, unlike what you said. They don't hold many larger cups, and water bottles will fly out of them on any sideways movement. I have a 2001 ML430. Paid $1995 for an extended warranty. Worth every penny, as I had over $9000 worth of repairs during the warranty period. My trans failed at 98,000 miles. Sunroof motor failed (though I rarely used it) and is super expensive to fix (over $1200). Lots of throttle position, crankshaft position, SRS, and other sensor issues, but that got better as time went on. Maybe they slipstreamed better parts in.
Engine is bulletproof. Trust me. I drive "enthusiastically" as the old BMW commercials called it. :-)
Mine has navigation (CD behind the radio), but it's not much use now since Mercedes stopped making updates and went to DVD. Have the 3rd row seats (great for small kids). Power folding mirrors.
And having the lockable safe under the front passenger seat is handy in sketchy areas!!!
I really wanted the ML55, but the cost was WAY higher, and you lose the 3rd row seat option since the spare tire is stored there (versus under the rear of the truck with the other models).
Gas mileage is horrible, but I knew that going into it (I get 10-11 MPG in the city and 13-15 on the highway). Mine weighs over 5000 pounds. It's a beast in the snow.
Mine just has one rust spot on the driver's door. The interior is in pretty good condition.
Tires are not cheap and can be tricky to find due to the weird size (275/55 and 17 inch).
I drove the 6 cylinder, and the car was dog slow. So I went with the V-8.
Note that 2.3 manuals, 4.0 turbo diesels, and 2.7 turbo diesels were offered in Europe.
Evasive and/or high speed maneuvers are actually very good.
I love the truck (plan to keep it as long as parts are available), but I wanted to add my input.
George Klimes why does yours weigh so much ?!
@@TD-il6ju I guess because it's a real truck, I have the optional 3rd row seats (maybe 100 pounds or so right there), and it has a V-8 engine. Where I live it's classified as a truck, not a car. So I pay a little more for registration fees.
Eure englische Scheisse ist besser?
@@lukasschmidt50 Nein. Jedes Auto hat Probleme, aber dieses Auto wurde nicht gut gemacht. Ich liebe den Truck, aber ich bin ehrlich. Daimler hat ihre gewohnte Qualität bei diesem Modell nicht übertroffen.
Very positive review for a car which is generally described as substandard in terms of make quality. The ML deserves such a nice review, man
I really love this car! I love the after lines, compared to every newer generation. This era car design was great imo
I also love the mk1 BMW X5, and I also think it's the best looki generation
I had a ML55 amg couple years and that was cool.
Great review! I had a 2001 ML 320 sport bought it brand new, was the best car ever!!!
I use mine as a work truck 2003 last year W163. 200K still rolling strong!
ML is the best SUV of Mercedes Benz, and I will buy one in the future¡¡
To be honest I was long awaiting one of these great review!! 👌
I have W 163 , white . I feel a happy . MB # 1 !!! Нi from Russia /
@Emmett Trill Нахуя мне смотреть какое то кино "fixzone " ? Я просто наебал человечество , Я купил себе белый Mercedes !
May 2020 : i might want one...
I have mercedes 1999 for sale here in houston for 800 dlls...need some in water pump and ..motor runs good..
It's a really comfortable drive!
June 2021 i own one
I own one it’s a car I would not let go of in decent condition could use a little carpet cleaning other that it’s amazing the plastic is clean and I try am maintained it as much as I can! They deserve a great review like this one!
Your personality is cool & funny!
interesting fact about Mercedes is that back in the late 1990s, their parent company Daimler used to own railcar manufacturer AdTranz
We got a unicorn too at 76k miles 2 years ago. Today we are at 120k. Nice car
I have this exact model and year in fairly good condition.
Excuse me for divulging, LOL!
We bought the car in 2017, for a base price of $3,000 (although a whopping 200,000 miles, it should've been cheaper comparing what we paid to the Kelley Blue-Book value), and had repairs made which costed $4,200. After replacing the battery and crankshaft sensor, it now runs beautifully.
The console has some issues, mostly resulting from the previous handler, however I think my dad shouldn't come within 50 feet of the thing!
He recently broke the fog-lamp switch, thinking that he needed to remove the entire area to pull out the original Mercedes-Benz radio in order to retrieve the code after replacing the car battery.
He also somehow managed to bust the driver side cup-holder, so the spring mechanism malfunctions and it's difficult to open and close, otherwise, all other mentioned issues were not his fault.
The ashtray cover had been knocked loose, and needs adhesive to bond the wood back on.
Finally, the glove compartment door has a small problem closing, but it does not pop open, nor is difficult to close.
Aside from those minor issues, the dash/instrument cluster looks fantastic.
For seats, all need a leather restoration, and the driver and passenger need a plastic part replacement, as they were abused well by the previous owner(s), but still feel comfortable.
The passenger door compartment also needs some repair, but that's all for interior complications.
The exterior has some hassles, the major being the lift-gate (trunk) latch causing a struggle. It sets off the alarm.
The next, more of a minor problem, being a paint job; the clear-coating had stripped away due to heat and cold.
Aside from future services and restorations (not too pricey, but most issues falling just around $500 from third party mechanics), I'm loving this ride.
Congrats on finding one with so few issues!
I remembered my mom used to have a 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 and then it has been handed down to my dad after about 7 years from 2006 to 2013 and my dad has owned it from 2014 to 2015 and then it was handed down to my uncle and he owned it from 2015 to 2018 and my dad sent that vehicle to the junkyard on November 12, 2018 but I took a picture of the ML twice in 2018 like on August 2nd and November 12th
It didn’t deserve the junk yard. These were one of the best cars I’ve ever owned and still own. I daily drive a C class but we still keep an ML320 in our driveway.
Im from Europe, i have 2004 ML 4liter V8 diesel. Its perfect car. Strong, powerful and good fuel economy.
Are you satisfied with ml400? I’m planinng buy one within this week. I need back seats space and bagage space. But not i am sure that its provides them. Also requaring semi offroad capabilities...
Anericans don't know Diesel sadly, subjected to the stupid government boycott on Diesel
When i drive self MB W 163 ....I feel a happy , and spirit Grand of Germany !!!!
If they did go joint with Mitsubishi would be nothing wrong with that. Mitsubishi has been building SUVS and 4WD way longer than Mercedes has. Although I am a huge Mercedes fan Mitsubishi has more experience in that and Montero proves that.
Whaaaaatttttt???!!!!! It has a lift kit!!!!??? When I bought mine I said I'm gonna get it lifted. Loved this review!
He rides like a Champ! I really dig my Mercedes Mansion!
Surely those tyres (tires) are too small.
If you want to go low profile, you're supposed to get bigger wheels first. 😊
Great review as always. And yes, too many of these are "beat to shit" which is unfortunate.
They are great trucks, very durable and luxurious.
Langue en français
Identical to my 2001 which I bought new and continue to enjoy. I’ve always taken it to the dealer for maintenance - expensive, but always performs flawlessly.
Thank you for showing me where my cd player is! 🤙🏾🙌🏾
Had they done the joint venture with Mitsubishi I would think they would be more reliable. Not falling apart like most models are as you said.
i had a 2005 ml DUB edition. the last year that w163 was made. i loved it, super good truck, tough as shit. drove it hard, used as my personal Vehi. for fire emergency runs. my only complain was the brakes, they tended to overheat when pushed to the limit. besides that, great car. now I have GL
Did they improve the T rex proofing system yet on these years?
thank you, I"m selling a 2000 ML430 in CA for $3000 with 159k miles, everything works
Winnie s ml320 sport 2001 w 129k miles in CA hit me everything works
Interested, can you do a short video of it?
I’ve been anticipating another review from you
I have a 2000 ML430 still running good
4:27
The W163 doesn't have Manual shift mode...
This is a shift limiter so it makes the engine not go higher than the gear chosen with the stick. It's not what you think it is and you cant change gears while driving. If you use this extra like that expect your car and gearbox to f up....
I'm currently converting a mercedes ML to an Overland vehicle
8:59 Beatiful, powerful, perfect ✨
I have a super clean 1999 ml430 running excellent has 325000 miles and seems like it's barely broke in. Sick power and speed smooth and pure luxury ride.
My car headliner is peeling off!
Back in the old times my parents used to have a 1998 ML320. From what I known it had all additional options, had the M1 option package, this added the leather interior along with metallic paint, CD changer, lockable safe box under passenger seat, unpainted bumpers and fender flares, sunroof, and a trip computer which was a rare option for the 98-00 ML.
Was it reliable? Did it have expensive repairs?
I have a Ml 55 and its sach a great car , my m113 have 398 k km , no problems ať all with engine and gearbox , bulet proove , I realy recomend ,and if its good serviced , no problém with high milege one.
W163 is the best ML ever
my family had one of these for 20 years and the only thing that wasn't basic maintenance we had to do was fix a fuel line and the air compressor after 170k miles
I can get one of these for about 2000.00 was wonderign if I should or not, this review is promising. :) thnk you !
I still own one of these, and still in love with it ...though it has some problems but I ain't selling it 😎
I have a 2000 Ml320 and my only complaint is the gas mileage... Other than that you are spot on.
What is its fuel consumption?
@@emanuelndembeka6959 it was horrendous, I sold it right after that comment.
my fav. SUV ever!
What about the ml 270?
Really nice review!
Brake light is on and gear is not changing
Actually there was an ml230 that was rwd
lake mary! solid review, I love my w163
The shifter isn't for manual, it's low range gear's.
Don’t know much about the truck I just got one. So what’s the negative and minus really for and when would you use it?
Average Apmok they are more like power shifters, I use mine when going uphill. I’ll shift it to second gear and haul ass up the hill.
No, its a shifter, use it anytime, to overtake kickdown etc.
Por fuera, para ser Mercedes benz, la carrocería no dice nada, lo único que se ve bien por fuera, es el símbolo al frente de la "MB" porque por fuera parece una guagua cualquiera, pero cuando uno la ve por dentro, ve otra cosa, se ve espaciosa y comoda.
Gracias por mostrarla por todos lados.
Love this car :)
I remember these were everywhere back in 2002. Now, you barely see them.
There are lots of them up here in the DC metro area. Mostly ML320 and ML350 models, as the V-8 ones were more expensive.
@@georgeklimes7604 really? there's one in my hometown!!! i barely see them in puertorico
@@yrrah89 I am in the Washington DC metro area. Those cars are everywhere. I've been to Puerto Rico and seen a few but mostly near San Juan and typically the 6 cylinder ones. Where's your home town?
Arecibo. surprisingly enough I have seen like 4 the past few weeks. It's funny bc they drive by me and the drivers stare at me and i stare at them back. hahah so weird to see one of these on the road nowadays.
After That Video i love this car
It’s funny because I do use a Bluetooth tape adapter on this radio in my M Class. Works great.
Where is the spare tire?
Nice relaxing review. Thank you
Hello does this one include the under seat storage?
Only luxury off roader? What about the range rover?
Excellent review, thanks
It's AWD permanently. Not 4WD.
? Its got 4 wheels all driven that = 4WD
This is a real 4x4 system, the fact that you can not use in 2wd does not mean is "awd", but similar to v8 four runners,has a real low gearing.
can you do a Gl 450 first generation?
'It was built in Alabama so a lot of American sweat went into the production' lmfao
Is the maintenance affordable?
How can normally air in marsadez ml 320
LX470 was out in 98
Meat Vision @ 7:47 lol great vid
Tires are too small
The first generation Lexus RX300 killed this Mercedes ML class.... the Lexus RX series came among in 1999 and snatched a huge sale volume from Mercedes ML and conquered and has dominated the SUV market ever since....
Would this be a good car to buy as your very first car or no
Its good if you find a clean one which is hard to come by, and we all know that Mercedes technical malfunctions/repairs cost an Arm and a Leg to fix 😁💵
Yes. I have one... I was lucky enough to buy one as clean as this one. It's such an awesome truck. Mine even has third row seats and a third window that you can open with a touch of a button. This one dosen't have it. It's my first car too! Bought it for 4200 with 110,000 miles. I will most likely keep it forever...
Cant wait to finish highschool and buy this car
So would anyone recommend this car I'm looking same car same year tomorrow. for my first car. it has 150k miles what do you think? sooner the response the better
Christal Martinez The mileage really isn’t what one ought to be scared of but how well it was treated. Powertrain should still be solid even with those miles. Just make sure it was well maintained, that everything works, rides and drives great, and that it was obvious the previous owner(s) took care of it. Otherwise if it’s rough and needs lots of work, steer clear!
NEVER!!!!!!BUY THIS MONEY PIT
I don't know if you bought it or not, but mine is a 2002 with 130k miles. I've done my own maintenance as you can see in my videos. My neighbor has a 2001 with 300k miles and he said the only out of the ordinary thing was replacing the radiator. The 6 cylinder engine (m112) and tranny are also in other class vehicles like E320 and C320. It really depends on how well the previous owner took care of the truck and if they did all the maintenance.
bama ml320...soooooo many repairs.....12k in parts and repairs so far.....got it for free or i would have never touched it.....cheaply made doors rattled at 30 k.....plastic on radiator....and everywhere else
You should (and will) have more visualizations
We had one and it's gotten too old now
Very informative review!
Your car?
David Janitschek ohhh no! I’d need to have an ML430, ML500, or ML55 to even consider one.
Intechdude300 agreed!
Intechdude300 tbh I'd rather go for the ml55
Intechdude300 can you please do a 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan LE?
Very nice review
it real was only $35000 my perents told me they got it for $56000
Kbb value is $2,000