1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320 Transmission and drivetrain Problems
- Complaints
- 10about this part
- Share
- 8%of 133 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 59,945miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 10 complaints about the transmission and drivetrain of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320, 8% of the 133 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 59,945 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.
“Laundry list of failures. Jack has almost killed me while changing tire. Vehicle fell, almost hitting me but catching side of vehicle before landing on me! Hood latch has failed on a few occasions, causing hood to open while vehicle was in motion. Air mass meter failed. Has required 5 (five!) alignments in two years. When brought to dealer's attention, was told nothing was wrong. A month later requires another alignment. Alignment problems causes wear on tires, which has caused hydroplaning and loss of control of vehicle. Vehicle swerves uncontrollably when hits anything other than flat road. …”
NHTSA complaint #10068171, filed 2004-05, 97,615 miles“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“While applying the accelerator pedal heard a loud popping noise coming from the front. Vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. However, consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection. Mechanic determined that the transfer case needed to be replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #10098986, filed 2004-10“The consumer has been experiencing problems with automatic transmission/motor/ power windows/ door handles and panels, and suspension system. Consumer has been experiencing these problems ever since vehicle was purchased. The manufacturer has been contacted.”
NHTSA complaint #831300, filed 1998-11“Transmission would not shift from low. Only happens if vehicle is placed in gear & has not stop. Transmission would lock into 1st gear or 2nd gear. Problem not fixed if vehicle is shut down.”
NHTSA complaint #850055, filed 1999-10Related service bulletins
- 10181124Sep 30, 2020Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
- 10181123Sep 22, 2020Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
- 10025663Apr 2, 2008Slow acceleration with gas pedal hesitation. Models 164.122/8ss (ml 320 and gl320); 211.022 (e320); 251.122 (4320). Years unknown.
Transmission and drivetrain: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 4 | 14% |
| 2008 | 1 | 5% |
| 2007 | 2 | 13% |
| 2005 | 1 | 20% |
| 2003 | 2 | 9% |
| 2002 | 2 | 2% |
| 2001 | 3 | 2% |
| 2000 | 12 | 7% |
| 1999 | 19 | 15% |
| 1998 | 10 | 8% |
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 complaintsSeat belts
8 complaintsAir bags
7 complaintsVehicle speed control
7 complaintsSteering
6 complaintsEquipment
5 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