10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
1 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
1 / 0
Average Mileage:
104,396 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

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problem #7

Dec 062016

ML430

  • 150,000 miles
The all activity module (aam) does not function properly to which neither side mirrors can be adjusted because the windows no go up and down or longer operate. Then the door locks no longer functions and various other components rely solely off of this middle instrument cluster. When I took it to the dealer they said there is a malfunction in the aam controls which are the causing affect of this issue.

- Dallas, TX, USA

problem #6

May 012013

ML430

  • 109,000 miles
The contact owns a 2001 Mercedes Benz ML430. The contact stated that the fobik utilized and the locks began to lock and unlock several times until it eventually stopped and unlocked. The contact also stated that the door lock on the drivers side door, locked and unlock several times when the fobik was utilized to lock the door. The contact stated that the vehicle had to be locked manually. The failure recurred each time the fobik or door lock was depressed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed that the all activity module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 01V061000 (electrical system). The approximate failure mileage was 109,000.

- Cordova, TN, USA

problem #5

Feb 052015

ML430 8-cyl

  • 186,675 miles
The contact owns a 2001 Mercedes Benz ML430. The contact stated that the service engine and the bas esp warning lights flickered. The contact mentioned that when the warning lights illuminated, the brakes engaged and there was an abnormal noise. In addition, the electric power door lock function was making an abnormal noise. The contact discovered that the A/C line fractured and the windshield wipers plastic piece fractured. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was included in NHTSA campaign number: 11V208000 (vehicle speed control). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 186,675. Updated 11/23/15 the consumer fixed the vehicle at his/her expense. Updated 01/29/16.

- Wyandanch, NY, USA

problem #4

Oct 252013

ML430

  • 117,000 miles
There is an active recall for the all activity module on 2001 M class vehicles. There is an extensive amount of data that owners from the release of the Mercedes Benz ML430 have had problems identical to those in the active recall. When I call Mercedes, they say my car is not impacted. Based on the number of issues and history on 2001 M class all activity modules, I feel this recall should extend to all 2001 M class cars.

- Washington, DC, USA

problem #3

Mar 182011

ML430

  • 82,000 miles
The contact owns a 2001 Mercedes Benz ML430. The contact stated that the all activity module II, which operates all electrical components on the vehicle, failed. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign id number: 01V061000 (electrical system: Wiring) which the dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that his VIN was not included. They offered no further assistance. The contact stated that he would repair the vehicle himself. The failure mileage was 82,000.

- Jacksonville, FL, USA

problem #2

Feb 202001

ML430 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 100 miles
Since the car was purchased it continues to hesitate and stall out giving a "start error" on the instrument panel. Had confirmed by the service manager, gerry griffith (car purchased in indianapolis, recent move to Alabama), that the model M-class has problems with this issue. Just had to spend $1000+ on a "fix" and the problem has been ongoing since the beginning of purchasing the car. Detailed service records are not given to the customer only a brief synopsis and all work is not included in that report, I.e., the actual testing codes, etc.

- Birmingham, AL, USA

problem #1

Feb 282005

ML430 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 86,000 miles
Just as reported in consumer reports, electrical systems failed on this vehicle causing all safety systems (ie., brake assist, safety belts, air bags) to fail. The problem caused two accidents last year when the 4,400 lb. Vehicle could not stop. Other electrical systems are also failing. Further, the rear gate latch was not locking and the dealer never verbally told us when we picked up the vehicle from being serviced, nor did they ever ask if we wanted it fixed. We just found out about this. One would expect more from a Mercedes product. After the truck was "fixed" twice, we then paid to have it gone over ($300) and found the problem with the safety systems which had been noted as being fixed previously. It was a $100 stop switch. Meanwhile, we will pay higher insurance rates for the next three years. Mercedes usa should have recalled these vehicles for the electrical problems, but they just brushed it under the rug. I thought we were buying a quality product. I guess not.

- Fishers, IN, USA