2008 Mercedes Benz ML320
Only 21 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
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
Only 21 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
5 of 21 total reports mention: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
Right rear brake light inoperative even with new bulb. Dash warning light shows this light not working .08
NHTSA ODI report, 20240824
BOTH REAR BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLIES HAVE FAILED. THESE FAILURES INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF A REAR END COLLISION. WHEN THE LEFT ASSEMBLY FAILED IN 2011, I ATTRIBUTED IT TO BAD LUCK.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120413
4 of 21 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
MY 2008 IS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AS THIS 2009. MERCEDES BENZ IS RECALLING 16,130 MY 2009 M-CLASS W164 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE OPTIONAL POWER LIFT GATE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180206
2 of 21 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML320. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING THROUGH THE AUTOMATED CAR WASH CONVEYOR AT APPROXIMATELY 1 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20150102
2 of 21 total reports mention: steering.
2 of 21 total reports mention: seat belts.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML-Class, GL-Class, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge.
Campaign 22V315000 — check if this car was fixed
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge.
Campaign 24V298000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 Mercedes Benz ML320 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V315000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 24V298000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2008 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 2008 Mercedes Benz ML320?
The most-reported component is exterior lighting, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Mercedes Benz ML320 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.