2004 Mercedes Benz ML500
Only 18 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 18 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 18
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2004: 18 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 27 |
| 2003 | 13 |
| 2004 | 18 |
| 2005 | 3 |
| 2006 | 37 |
| 2007 | 9 |
| 2008 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 18 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Steering
6 of 18 total reports mention: steering, most commonly citing hose, piping, and connections.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML500. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, he los control of the steering wheel. The contact stated that the steering wheel turned 360 degrees however, the wheels remained in a straightforward position.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-04-07
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500. While driving various speeds, the steering wheel became loose and required excessive force to control the wheel. The contact noticed fluid leaking from the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-10-06
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500. The contact stated that the steering wheel exhibited a loud noise when attempting a turn.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-10-17
Electrical system
5 of 18 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
The bose dvd stereo has no sound everything works just no sound this appear to be a common problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-11-26
Seats
3 of 18 total reports mention: seats, most commonly citing seat heater/cooler.
Show complaint excerpts
2004 Mercedes Benz ML500 driver seat caught fire while driving. Consumer states that due to the seat catching fire he suffered mild burns on the left hip.
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-01-31
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500. While driving 35 MPH, the driver seat became extremely hot while the warmer function was activated. The vehicle was pulled over and the seat was red and smoking.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-11-28
Also filed under Visibility
Service brakes
3 of 18 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Exterior lighting
2 of 18 total reports mention: exterior lighting, most commonly citing headlights.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
2004 Mercedes Benz ML500 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Steering: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Seats: 3 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500 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 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500?
- The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2004 Mercedes Benz ML500 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.