2002 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 PER YEAR
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.
27% of complaints: steering — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hose, piping, and connections and hydraulic power assist system.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I HAVE A 2002 MERCEDES BENZ (MB) ML320. THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS DEPLETING ALL THE TIME FROM A LEAKAGE BETWEEN THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND THE HOSE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20090407
27% of complaints: service brakes — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML320. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the driverâs side front wheel independently braked.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240503
Also filed under WHEELS
FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL BRAKE ON IT'S OWN, PULLING ME OFF TO THE LEFT OF THE ROAD VEHICLE BRAKE (RIGHT SIDE) STAYED ENGAGED UNTIL VEHICLE SPEED WAS DOWN TO ABOUT 20 MPH. DEALER SAID A BAD YAW RATE SENSOR WAS THE PROBLEM. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20121108
22% of complaints: electrical system — 19 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing instrument cluster/panel.
FIRE13% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 11 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing cruise control.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
MB ML 320 CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE WHILE EXITING A PARKING RAMP WHILE NOT TOUCHING THE ACCELERATOR AND WITH BRAKING HAVING NO EFFECT ON REDUCING SPEED UNTIL CAR IMPACTED WALL. *JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20060910
11% of complaints: electronic stability control (esc) — 10 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LEFT FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM MAY NOT MEET THE SPECIFIED STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 29, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT
Campaign 01V290000 — check if this car was fixed
Brake lamp switch failure.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2002 Mercedes Benz ML320 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for steering issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (19 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 01V290000 (suspension) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2002 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 2002 Mercedes Benz ML320?
The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2002 Mercedes Benz ML320 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-15 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.