Mercedes-Benz

Ml-Class (2003)

2003 · Midsize SUV ยท 1 engine
Best Engine โŒ Avoid (1.3)
72 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
11 Fire Reports
2 Crash Reports
View all 14 generations of the Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class → ๐Ÿ“‹ Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
โ€”
Side Crash
โ€”
Rollover
3/5
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

Engine Reliability Ratings

Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class 3.70L 8-cyl unspecified

3.7L 8-cyl / 240 hp
โŒ Avoid (1.3)
72 complaints 72.0 per year Gasoline
11 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

steering
21
interior
19
electrical
15
engine
13
brakes
9

Known Issues

Steering Issues (21 complaints)
Interior Issues (19 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (15 complaints)

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class regardless of engine variant.

Steering Issues (21 complaints)
steering critical
Interior Issues (19 complaints)
interior critical
Electrical System Issues (15 complaints)
electrical critical
Engine Issues (13 complaints)
engine critical

Alternatives in Midsize SUV

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class problems?

The 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class has accumulated 72 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Steering, Interior, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class engine is most reliable?

The 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.70L 8-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class a good used car?

The 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 72 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class have?

The 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class has 72 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2003-2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN โ€” check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

Before buying a used Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Steering, Interior, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Ml-Class?

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 3 stars. Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 72 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-05-19.

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