2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.25/5 Average
136 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The M-Class' navigation system enters the 21st century by ditching the old CD-ROM-based design for a much more efficient DVD-based setup. This is the lone change as the MLs received numerous updates last year.

Pros:
  • Safe, comfortable, brisk performance, surefooted in bad weather.
Cons:
  • On-road handling eclipsed by newer crossover SUVs, gets pricey fast if buyer gets tempted by too many options.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 136.00
  • Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Inspiration - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    On my fourth day of ownership, I was on my way to work when the truck began leaking power steering fluid. Soon I found myself unable to steer and was forced to pull over to the side of the road. I had it towed back to the dealership. A recalled part (clamp) had failed and was replaced by the dealership. Three days later I was on my way to a business meeting when, once again, the power steering fluid began leaking and I was unable to steer the vehicle. Yet again I had to call to arrange for towing back to the dealership.

  • Best car ever - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    very fun to drive and a very stylish exterior and of course its a mercedes and that means it will have great reliability

  • TOTAL NIGHTMARE - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Power windows that wouldnt go back up (in a rainstorm)was my first experience. I have had to get new batteries 3x now at $35 a pop. I have had problems with my dashboard lighting up like a Christmas tree. My front brakes (according to the dealership)"went" at 27,000 miles to the tune of $300. Here is a small list of what has broken in the short time I have had this vehicle, water pump, anti theft, cd player, stereo speakers, srs, abs, there was something else but I cant remember those three letters ha ha, and most recently the radiator. Everytime I bring this vehicle in I lose it for a minimum of 3 days, as it would seem parts are hard to get.

  • Driven Everywhere - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    I drive this thing +175 miles a day, 4 to 5 days a week under all conditions and on every type of road way and I really enjoy the car. It has enough room for passengers to be comfortable, but is much more comfy for me than my last 2000 ML320. For a car to stand up to what I put it through and keep going with little to no maintenance is very pleasing. A great buy and I dont even care that I have to reach over 6 inches to adjust the radio instead of the steering wheel.

  • ML500 - Very Poor Ride - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    I am very unhappy with the ride. MB should be ashamed, no wonder they are loosing market share like anything. What the hell were they thinking when they designed the suspension system for this thing - ML500 with $50,000. The other problem, which my dealer tells me is normal - all tires are feathering a lot, he tells me this is normal. I am supposed to change the tires every 15-20000 miles? My god the ride is just so bad - 10 mins ride and your body is ready to fall a part. never expected a donut size tire either with MB, when others have full size spare. Dont know what to do with this.

  • How could MB put their name on this SUV? - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    My wifes ML320 has been in the shop over 6 times now for issues ranging from low engine oil warnings(HBL tells us that its normal for the ML to lose a few quarts of oil ) to electrical issues. e.g. power windows, sensors, strange sounds. Would never buy one again and have suggested to prospective buyers not to make the same mistake we did. Just read that over 60% of MLs have major issues. Thank GOD for the 4- year-50K warranty. Mercedes has probably lost ALL the money they saved by manufacturing the car in ALABAMA instead of Deutschland, on warrantied labor. If you have to have a Mercedes, avoid the M Class.

  • ML500 Inspiration Edition - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    We traded in our 2001 ML320 in orion blue for the new 2003 ML500 Inspiration Edition. The capri blue color is just beautiful. The handstitch seats with the new DVD-ROM in dash navigation sold us on the spot. After test driving the vehicle, there is NO COMPARISON on the ZOOM between the 320 and 500; 500 definitely beat the 320.

  • Ill stick to Lincolns - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    The car is fine but nothing sets it apart from other luxury SUVs. My exp w/ the sales process was the only piece that went smoothly. Due to Linc, I am accustomed to receiving the model of loaner veh that I am having serviced. Mercs loaner car program consists of using the co-resident Enterprise office. That blows. The warranty has a couple nice perks but nothing worth dealing w/ their Service dept. After purchase, I received a letter for a recall that went out six months prior. Shouldve been fixed prior to sell of vehicle. Mercs Customer Service and Service depts could learn a lesson from Linc.

  • Finally the real M arrives - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    For me, people who buy the M-Class are well-informed, practical and have an appreciation of the delicate balance between luxury and utility.I was truly impressed with the X5 but it didnt have the Ms cargo room/utility.Drove the MDX-wide track, excellent engine- but it lost points in the luxury department (plus 3rd row seating is actually smaller compared to the M). Sequoia? Quite impractical for my needs. Consider a vehicle that will inflict the least damage to the other vehicle-lower bumper and crumple zones. Dont be persuaded by emotional reviews. Do your own research and come to a conclusion. Have a safe trip and tread lightly!

  • ML IS GREAT - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Hi, I Recently purchased a 2003 ML320. I have to say that this is a geat vehicle. I always dreamed of buying an SUV, but I never thought that Mercedes would fit the bill. I feel like I am gliding in air when I drive this car. All I can say is pure fun and enjoyment. My 3 year old sun loves the 3rd row seats and will not sit anywhere else in the SUV.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Reviews By Year:
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