Used 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Consumer Reviews
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King of the SUV world
My new ML500 is in one word, AWESOME. Its roomy, incredibly fast and stops on a dime. I did have a squeaky, rear hatch latch that was promptly fixed by the dealer. The ML 500 costs less than a smaller, slower BMW X5 which does not offer TeleAid or remote mechanical telemetry, standard on the Benz. I feel safe and secure driving the ML500 which feels just like the S500 in terms of ride quality. Its a true Benz and turns heads everywhere
Very safe & Solid SUV
This is a very safe and solid SUV, while it may lack some bells and whistles; it has all that it needs to be a solid SUV. Ive owned 4 of these, 1998 ML 320 2000 ML 320, 2001 ML 430, and 2002 ML 500. It was my wifes vehicle, I bought this for her to keep her safe, and when a new safety feature was released I traded in the previous one for a new one (stability control, curtain airbags ) I lost her to cancer at 31 years old. So now I keep her ML500 in the garage all waxed and clean. Some people complain about that the tires and or brakes wear out around 20k miles, Ive experienced this too, but keep in mind that this SUV is almost 5,000 pounds, twice as heavy as an average sedan.
- ML320 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,14925 mi away
- ML320 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,988702 mi away
- ML320 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,999704 mi away
2002 Mercedes ML-320
I bought this car back in 2012 for $7100 I believe it was actually worth somewhere around 9 or 10 grand but could be wrong but lets get down to the point...bought this car with 120,000 or so miles on it. Never had to work on this car all I ever did was kept my oil changed at every 5-7 thousand miles but calls for every 10k. I did have to replace an alternator and upper control arms due to worn out ball joints but that's normal for a car this old, the driving, handling and comfort of this car I loved it. I even drove this car on solid ice and didn't no it untill I parked and stepped out to feel the ground in solid ice. This has been the best car I ever owned and actually thinking about buying another one due to, I lost this car after my wife hit a telephone head on cause she dropped her drink in her lap and took her eyes off the road. Now this thing was built for safety and I'm still shocked at how tough this thing was, she walked away without a scratch or bruise. And most cars windshields crack or even bust after hitting a telephone pole at 70mph. This windshield did not. This thing is a safe and reliable car all in one. And that's one of the biggest reasons why I am considering buying another one just like it. You cannot go wrong with the ml320 wished I still had her sitting in my driveway
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Great car!
8 years- the car looks brand new. Leather in a perfect condition. All electronics work great! Never had any problems with the car. Fun to drive! I love it.
Multifunctional
Bought new in 2002. I use my ML55 for towing, luxury driving, shopping, delivery, anything you can think off and have so far driven 175000 km trouble free. At times I drive it hard and I just love it, It definitely is a keeper. Engine is like a sewing machine. never a wrong beat.
Does the trick!!
I purchased a new 2001 ML 320 and kept it for a year and spent the greater part of that year camped at the dealer with the myriad of problems. Things like I could not go more than 2 weeks w/o a headlight bulb on either side blowing or strange sounds coming from the undercarriage or leaks each time it rained, etc. My first MB had been a 1961 220S and was a fantastic vehicle so I knew what a MB was supposed to be! I became very vocal whenever I had to be there for another issue with the 2001 and either the dealer was going to give in or MB itself. I was finally offered a 2002 ML500 which had over 5000 changes made and 200,000 great miles have passed. No major problems, just normal things.
The little truck that could!
We bought this for normal everyday driving. Found it to be reliable and capable. Great engine and transmission. The box on frame design is a bit too rough, but the feel of durability is amazing. It has more umph than my old GMC. The tire wear was on the high side as was the brake wear. Stopping a 5000 truck takes a lot of brake lining. Excellent visability, nice looking, easy to maintain. Avg about 20mpg. Clean and efficient. Handles people, things and long drives like a pro.
Not the best choice for a used SUV
I have owned this car since new. It now has 110,000 miles and is still like new since almost every part has been replaced or repaired at least once. I have found the car is easy to work on and most parts are available on line or at local auto parts stores. There are also great web forums to help diagnose problems and instructions for repairs. There have been so many problems I could not begin to list them all, but one positive thing I can say it has never left me stranded. I would only recommend buying this car if you have the ability to do most of the repairs and maintenance yourself, otherwise this car is just a money pit that is best avoided
its been great
bought brand new and my 2nd ml320. no major issues so far, handles great rain or snow. would buy another.
2002 ML 500 - great to drive awful to maintain
Safety, performance (fun to drive), all weather drving capability - wonderful vehicle. Maintenance costs on the other hand are unacceptable for a vehicle of the this class. Problems, you bet - 4 rear main engine seals in 96,000 miles at $1,300 per repair, front lower ball joints at 25,000 miles, engine oil leaks, interior plastic trim pieces breaking, $775 for brakes every 22,000-25,000 miles, three door panels repainted - rust problems, $1100 to repair ventilation system, and many more.
great car and keeps runnning
I have 120,000 miles on the ML. Its a safe, big interior with huge trunk and handles very well.
Tiger Tank
We purchased our 02 as a CPO ML. It was just turned in on a lease with 23k on it. Wanted safety. The engine is performs very well. Smooth, fast and reliable. Performs from 0-60 with no flat spot. The ride is good for an SUV. We had ae minor axle and trans seal leak repaired. The ML's traction and stability control work excellent. Drive in icy conditions can't even tell the road surface is slick until we get out to walk. It corners well and stops well. Solid, safe, built like Tiger tank. Neighbor works in ER level 3. Lexus LX470 (large SUV) crossed center line on interstate. Hit ML on front and side. ML occupants good shape, Lexus driver died. Worth every penny in safety and broken bones
Much improved over 2000 year
Had an ML in 1999 and 2000. 1999 was noisy, and 2000 had many electrical problems. However, I needed the space so I tried the 2002 after I heard it was much more reliable. It has been! Great car.
My 02 ML500
My ML500 has been a great car. Overall quality is very good. I currently have just over 90000 miles. Only problems have been radio vol going up and down w/o cause. Fixed by MB of Albq. NM after about 5 visits. I have always been treated with exceptional care by MB of Albq. Also tranny went out at about 70K miles. Fully covered by MB starmark warranty. I do tow a fair amount about 2K pounds (motorcyles). Vehicle always tows well and is always fun to drive. I have taken on pretty rough 4x4 trips with no problems and not new rattles. I always appreciate my ML after driving other vehicles that are not MB. Fuel economy is not good but I get about 13 in town and 16- 17 hwy w/o trailer. Lots of pwr
The Best SUV
If you're reading the negative comments posted here and wondering wether or not to buy an ML, trust me...... BUY ONE. I have owned other SUV's and believe me, there is no comparison. You have to experience it to understand
A Great Car!
The Mercedes M-Class has gone above and beyond all of my expectations... I live in Chicago, and I consider myself to be a horrible winter driver, however, with the purchase of this car I feel comfortable and in control of the situations that the road deals me. The interior has been vastly upgraded since the 98-model year and is now in line with the rest of Mercedes Line. The interior is flawless everything is in reach of the driver and everything is intuitively laid out. The car has been a pleasure to drive and have recommended it to all of my friends. I simply can not say enough of how much I love this car!
Bubba Gump musta made 'dis un
This is a sad example of a decent brand stuck on a poorly-made SUV. Mine has been in the shop 16 times in the last 12 months: engine mysteriously stalling, broken door handles, window lifters stopped working twice, malfunctioning turn signals, ripped seat covering, sunroof came loose, etc. Even the San Francisco Mercedes dealer (European Motors) is laughing about the quality of this car: "well, you know, it IS a truck made in Alabama after all". So if you want a Mercedes, buy one from Stuttgart.
My mechanic loves me!
I purchased my truck with about 70k miles in 2007. I have had nothing but trouble from this vehicle since i had it. Brakes go way too often, i have had to get some kind of rod replaced because it was making a crazy noise, also leaking in car, also alternator went and trans is starting to go and a few other repairs that were all fairly costly. when the truck is right its a great but ride but so many troubles make it not the purchase. my mechanic is a German car specialist and he flat out said these trucks are flat out headaches waiting to happen!
A truly reliable fast Chariot
I read some reviews about the ML55 stating that it drank too much gas and that there were little issues here and there. Initially I was hesitant but instinctively, I wanted to drive it to believe. My wife and I absolutely love the car. It is quick, reliable, sturdy, and a pleasure to drive, especially on the highway. It does not drink that much gas, only to the heavy footed driver. In fact, because of its weight, on the highway, once you build a speed and hold it, the car just cruises sipping on gas. The music is great and the stopping is excellent. No brake problems. We like it and its amazingly safe for the family.
Loved this Vehicle
Awesome to drive. Great handling, drives like a tank and at the same time it has all the right assesories I side. My teenage son was.thrilled. Endless uses! Downside is the huge expense as the vehicle gets older. We finally had to stop repairing it.
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Resting on their laurels
Four years with this car and I'm very relieved to be done. I know the service people like family. In and out of service>4- 6/yrX4yrs. Rack and pinion replaced 2Xin four years! $900 break jobs are a semiannual event. Plastic parts keep breaking (seat moldings,cup holders glove compart) Frequent lighting electrical problems, Fan, Mirror motors fixed. Rode great when bought, very bumpy after 4mos. A lemon. Maybe new model better. In the shop as I speak. Rely on Benz Quality?nevermore
Awesome Dream Truck!
I really enjoy owning this truck. After all of the reaserch I have done on it, I finally found the one that suited my needs.
We love our 320 ML
This is our first ML. We have enjoyed a lot. It is really safe and confortable and fun to drive. Fuel economy shouldn't be an issue when you buy a SUV, there are plenty of GEOs out there if that is what you are looking for. My wife love it, she can put 2 strollers, lots of shopping bags, 2 big car seats, 2 friends etc. I feel my family is safe when they ride in this car. There have not been important reliability issues and we are planning to buy again a ML. Service was great and 100% better than BMW.
Piece of Junk
I bought it from my sister with very low mileage and extremely well maintained. Now I refer to this poorly built SUV as a "Piece of Junk!" It is plauged with problems. I have had interior parts falling off and breaking, sun roof deflectors broke and looking at the cheap plastic used in the build really disappointed me. Then the brake fluid drum breaks. Makes funny noises when driving and recently jerks badly when stopping at a light. Now a paint sealant or something seems to be peeling off at the back and dealer wants $500 a pop since I have run out of warranty! If anybody is intrested in filing a law suit, please count me in!
Ml55 amg
Its not a lemon, its what you would love to drive each and every day of your life.
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3 Years and Still Running Well
I purchased the ML as a replacement to a '99 Range Rover, to get me through college, and after driving for 3 Years, I feel that it can go for at least 10 more, the car is doing well. I feel safe driving it anywhere, and like the styling. I haven't had any major mechanical problems, only minor things such as the battery, and brakes. The radio is better than some, but worse than others. The storage is great, I love having the 10 airbags, heater rest mode is a life saver in the winter. Drive quality is good, and reliability is unparalleled. Parts can be costly, but it is a Mercedes. However to tell the truth, I do miss the Rover, it felt more solid, both on dry road, as well as in the snow.
Outdated Dinasoar
Bought the M because it was cheaper than the X5. After two months, it already feels old and can't wait to trade it in next year for the Cadillac. Bad investmen
Dependable; but needing repairs
Needs EGR valve , Passenger, outside mirror needs replacement, needs front bumper, needs window motor in driver door.
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This is my third M-class
I am aware that other consumers have had diffuculties in the past regarding the M-class however I bought a 98, 320 when it came out, a 99 430 when it came out and a 02 500 as soon as it came out. I have been extremely happy with it and I love to see the look of disbelief on the faces of the Mustang GT drivers when off the line and to 60mph or more they are only a distant memory in my rearview mirror. I couldn't justify the added expense of the ML55, the 500 provides all of the power, and more, than I will ever need.
ML 2002 review
Great SUV. Goes absolutely anywhere. Never let me down. Only problem is quality of finish and quality of details. Some exterior trim finish is poor quality. Lovely, beefy SUV. Overall have loved this vehicle.
Love my ML500
This is my second V8 ML; I had a 1999 ML430 and this one is considerably improved. The 430 had many quality issues but this one has been solid as a rock. I opted for the Sport package and this V8 haulsthe mail! The handling is quite amazing for a vehicle of this size. The driving position is great; you sit just high enough to get a good view of the traffic ahead. The only negatives are the goofy controls on the radio/navigation system, although you get used to it, and the fact of when these things are out of warranty, they are expensive to fix.
Cool car
I just brought the ML320 and i think it is a great car. Easy and fun to drive. I also have the SL500 and the Ml320 is more comfortable. Easy to park. Looks great in every color. Eats a lot of gas. oo the acceleration is not to great, you can push the accelerater down to the floor and the car will still go the same speed, it needs a few seconds to build up. Other then that i think its a great car.
Mercedes ML 320
Had a 1998 ML 320, liked it well enough to get the 2002 model and am extremely impressed wit the improvements. Ride, sound system, options are superb
Is this a German or American built car
When i took it for a test drive before buying was very impressed with the power and handeling. But after about a month since i bought it, started hearing squeaky sounds from the back. Can't even pinpoint where they are coming. It sounds like the hatch is going to fall of every time i hit a bump. I am embarrsed to let others drive with me and when i do, i try and put the music up to drown out the squeaks and rattles. It has just about 1800 miles. Can't imagine what it would be after few more thousand miles... If i could do it agian would have waited for the X5
So far...So good
Not really that powerful, but economical, despite the premium fuel demand. Avg mpg 17/21. No cost maintenence (warranty). No cost repair (even light bulbs and wiper blades). Ride could be softer. Seats could use lumbar. The heater will roast you and the AC will keep you cool. Sun roof, power rear wing windows...Why? I replaced the brake pads at 20K for ceramic, no wear. If the car is parked for 3 days, the security system drains the battery dies. Video system...Why? Would I buy another? No...initial cost, but then, the 2006 model has been very nicely upgraded!!! ;-)
2002 ML 500 after 2 years of ownership
Bought in Nov 2001, my ML500 was one of the first in the Houston area. I considered the ML55 AMG for the extra zip, but the '55 has a huge, glaring disadvantage: cargo space. The ML500 has plenty of zip, plenty of cargo room. The Sport Package also gives the ML a more agressive, sporty look. This is a magnificent machine, 26 months after delivery, the rest of the Lux-SUV pack hasn't caught up. I promise you folks, there is NOTHING else on the market in 2004 that has the performance AND high tech gadgetry of this 2002 model.
ML320
Great german engineering. Some minor details had failed during time (navigation unit) but were promptly replaced by the dealer. Overall experience is great, and I am now a returning buyer for ML. MPG is not the greatest, but hey, is an AWD! Excellent ABS and stability control that not many SUV's have. With the exception of the GPS unit, I had nothing to fix or repair on this car since 2001.
GREAT TRUCK!
THE ML320 IS ONE OF THE EST VEHICLES I HAVE EVER OWNED! IT SO ROOMY AND COMFORTABLE, I RECOMMEND IT TO ANYONE LOOKING FORA NEW TRUCK/SUV.
No Lemon Here
Despite so many negative reviews of the ML-class, our experience with this vehicle since purchasing it new has been one of trouble free driving. While it's true that some of the plastic interior materials are of lower quality than one would expect from Mercedes Benz, the fit and finish of the vehicle has been excellent. I really have no complaints about this SUV. It has always started; the AC is perfect; no electrical issues; the drive train is sound; the chassis is solid and squeak-free. Perhaps we've just been lucky, but after 65,000 miles this Benz has been at least as reliable as my old Mitsubishi Montero...which was the best car I've ever owned.
i had to exchange my first ml 320!!!!!!!
There were just too many problems with my first ML320, the computer system got messed up for no reason and shut down my car!!! However, they let me exchange for a brand new one. The second one had no problems.
2002 Ml320 is fantastic!!!
Merc has really improved ML320 from 2002 onwards. Its now what a Merc should be
great truck
This is a great truck/SUV. Mercedes finally got it right. It has power and the styling is unique. I really like this vehicle.
Great SUV
I looked at all the luxury SUV's out there and found this one was the best for my needs. More head and leg room than Lexus RX300 and better price than the BMW X5. I have had it for 6 months so far and have had no problems not even a squeak.
The best SUV - ML320
With recent advances in safety, comfort, off-road ability and on-road performance, Mercedes should maintain a strong presence in the luxury SUV market.
A GOOD Truck !
Very good car,,, with status and well design features..
Dream SUV ML 500
This is the car to own. The power is excellent. Function is great. Unfortunaly I had to call for road service twice in the first week. The ML would not start. Service was OK the dealer replaced the starter. I like the service - no charge for 4 years! What more could one want. Space plenty. The nav system could be easier to load. This is my second ML. The first one had no problems ever for 65 K. Again great car, my entire family likes it.
Excellent Choice
For the safety features--it's almost a mobile air bag--the build quality, and all the comforts this was an easy choice vs. American competitors. Some say a little pricey, true, but my dealer took off $3800 by the end. Rare for MB.
ML55
Sports car performance with SUV cargo capacity. The ML55 is excellant in all catagories. Gas mileage is better than reported (I have been averaging around 15)
Excellent Vehicle
This vehicle handles well and enjoy the hell out of it. Yes not to good gas mileage, but fun to drive.
2 nd year review
Has been in the shop for mulitple malfunctions all addressed by dealership on SEVERAL visits and Park Place's Road Side Repair service. Brake pads stink!! I am at 27,500 and told the brake pads have 10% left? Set number 3. 2nd set at 12,500 miles. Told by dealership it is due to AWD and common with their brake pads? This is my first Mercedes. Never had an issue with Japanese and US autos with AWD. To spend 50K+ on an auto and having to replace ONLY REAR pads for $311.00? That is crap!! Designers, take notice of the issues to keep Mercedes image and return buyer.