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ProblemsByVin File / 2012-MERCEDES-BENZ-ML-CLASS
2012 · mercedes-benz

mercedes-benz ML-Class problems

0 safety recalls. 65 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
8.0 / 10

Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.

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Critical
0
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 8 categories with 3+ complaints

engine
15 reports · avg $3,100
severe
electrical
9 reports · avg $850
moderate
steering
6 reports · avg $700
severe
lighting
5 reports · avg $250
severe
powertrain
5 reports · avg $2,500
moderate
fuel system
4 reports · avg $1,200
moderate
body
3 reports · avg $1,500
moderate
seatbelts
3 reports · avg $500
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2012 ML-Class · body
I have own this vehicle on July 2023. I have recently noticed the exterior paint is peeling off quickly all over the body.
12/25/2023 · NHTSA ODI #11561754.0
2012 ML-Class · powertrain
OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE ENGINE WHICH WAS THE RESULT OF A FAULTY PART THAT MERCEDES HAS SUBSEQUENTLY REPLACED WITH A NEW RE-ENGINEERED PART. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE ISSUE IS SYSTEMIC WITH ALL BLUE-TEC M AND G CLASS VEHICLES WHICH MERCEDES WILL NOT COVER THE CHARGE FOR. THE…
12/22/2015 · NHTSA ODI #10811684.0
2012 ML-Class · seatbelts
The driver's seat belt is locked and the retractor is not working without any reason. The front adaptive cruise control radar is also not working, along with the crucial blind spot sensor. Because of this, the vehicle cruise control (even without adaptive mode) is not working at…
12/08/2024 · NHTSA ODI #11629538.0
2012 ML-Class · visibility
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE RADIO AND AIR CONDITIONER FAILED TO FUNCTION. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF COCONUT CREEK (4250 SR 7,…
12/06/2017 · NHTSA ODI #11052806.0

Estimate your repair exposure

Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.

0 mi 200k mi
At 80,000 miles
Likely repair cost in next 24 months
$0

Common questions

Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.0 out of 10 based on 65 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is engine, with 15 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The engine is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Mercedes-Benz ML-Class has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 65 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $3,100, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 10 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with mercedes-benz. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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