1998 Mercedes Benz ML320
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 133
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine and engine cooling
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
24% of complaints
Complaints per year
1998: 133 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 133 |
| 1999 | 125 |
| 2000 | 166 |
| 2001 | 136 |
| 2002 | 88 |
| 2003 | 22 |
| 2005 | 5 |
| 2006 | 1 |
| 2007 | 16 |
| 2008 | 21 |
| 2009 | 28 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine and engine cooling
24% · 32 reportsMost commonly citing belts and associated pulleys and engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 1998 Mercedes Benz ML320.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-05-14
Electrical system
17% · 23 reportsMost commonly citing switch and front underhood.
Visibility
15% · 20 reportsMost commonly citing power window devices and controls and sun/moon roof assembly.
Service brakes
13% · 17 reportsMost commonly citing hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
The braking system failed and worked again after some pumping and coasting to avoid collision. The car then caught on fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-09-09
Fuel system, gasoline
11% · 15 reportsMost commonly citing fuel pump and tank assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
ML320 fuel pump failed, causing crash into other vehicle. Mbz roadside assistance was called twice and claimed no record of 1ST call 4 hours earlier.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-12-11
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2003-12-17Preliminary evaluationClosed 2004-04-22 Engine crankshaft pulley failure
Buy-smart checklist
1998 Mercedes Benz ML320 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 32 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 23 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility: 20 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1998 Mercedes Benz ML320 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1998 Mercedes Benz ML320?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1998 Mercedes Benz ML320 have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.