1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320 Equipment Problems
- Complaints
- 5about this part
- Share
- 4%of 133 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 117,500miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 5 complaints about the equipment of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320, 4% of the 133 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 117,500 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Transfer case failure. Front drive and passenger side wheels makes noise when making a turn from stop position or slow speed. Did some research and it turns out that this is a regular occurancy for the 1998-1999 ML320.”
NHTSA complaint #10052773, filed 2004-01, 55,000 miles“The contact owns a 1998 mercedes benz ML320. The contact stated that the vehicle was being repaired by an independent mechanic for unrelated issues when she was informed that the ignition key needed to be replaced because it no longer functioned properly. The contact was not informed as to why the failure occurred. The key was not replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was informed that in order to remedy the failure, the vehicle would need an entire new ignition system. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 180,000. …”
NHTSA complaint #10458322, filed 2012-05, 180,000 miles“The mbusa general manager is writing to inform consumer's of the use of conventional oil which could result in engine damage-may experience oil sludge. Dealer/manufacturer will cover the consumer's vehicle up to 10 yrs from the date of purchase, lease, or 150,000 mile's under terms of existing warranty/reimbursement. Scc”
NHTSA complaint #10004115, filed 2003-01Related service bulletins
- 10166976Feb 3, 2014Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
- 10037985Dec 10, 2010Mercedes-benz: the load compartment roller blind has catch bolts loose or broken from improper force when using.
Equipment: other model years
Other parts of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320
31 complaintsElectrical system
21 complaintsFuel system
20 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
17 complaintsBrakes
16 complaintsBody and structure
12 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
10 complaintsSeat belts
8 complaintsAir bags
7 complaintsVehicle speed control
7 complaintsSteering
6 complaintsExterior lighting
5 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology