2008 Mercedes Benz ML350
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 |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 1 |
| 2003 | 25 |
| 2004 | 35 |
| 2005 | 23 |
| 2006 | 172 |
| 2007 | 83 |
| 2008 | 67 |
| 2009 | 93 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
39% of complaints: steering — 26 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing rack and pinion and hydraulic power assist system.
Show complaint excerpts
See attached document for complaint
NHTSA ODI report, 20240417
Also filed under SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LEAKED STEERING FLUID, WHICH MADE THE STEERING WHEEL DIFFICULT TO TURN WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR ABOVE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180607
19% of complaints: electrical system — 13 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
BRAKE LIGHT WENT OUT. TWO DAYS LATER THE BATTERY CAUSED A FIRE INSIDE OF VEHICLE WHILE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY. KEYS WERE NOT IN THE IGNITION AT THE TIME
NHTSA ODI report, 20180604
12% of complaints: service brakes — 8 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH10% of complaints: structure — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hatchback/liftgate and body.
CRASH10% of complaints: exterior lighting — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing tail lights and headlights.
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 ML350 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for steering issues (26 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V315000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 24V298000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2008 Mercedes Benz ML350 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 ML350?
The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Mercedes Benz ML350 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.