Mercedes-Benz M-Class W164 ML 280 CDI
Model overview
A spacious, comfortable luxury SUV. Ageing suspension, electrical equipment and four-wheel-drive components can make upkeep expensive.
Pros
- Comfortable spacious cabin
- Useful 4MATIC traction
- Good towing capability in suitable specifications
Cons
- High running costs
- Costly driveline repairs
- AIRMATIC adds cost where fitted
Common problems & ownership concerns
Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.
- Transfer-case wearMedium
- AIRMATIC faults where fittedMedium
- Electrical equipment faultsMedium
- Suspension wear and corrosionMedium
Maintenance
Maintain the gearbox, transfer case, differentials and fitted suspension under their specified schedules.
Engine overview · 3.0L 6-cyl DIESEL
The OM642 V6 diesel suits the ML's size and motorway role. Oil-cooler seals and intake or boost hardware can require costly repair work.
Pros
- Strong pulling power
- Refined motorway delivery
- Wide specialist support
Cons
- Labour-intensive oil-leak repairs
- Complex intake hardware
- Emissions-system upkeep
Common problems & ownership concerns
Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.
- Oil-cooler seal leaksMedium
- Intake swirl-control faultsMedium
- Turbo-intake or charge-air leaksMedium
- Turbo-control and emissions faults where applicableMedium
Maintenance
Use the exact engine and emissions-system schedule and approved oil specification.
These are general ownership concerns, not a diagnosis. Equipment and engine details vary by version and production date.
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