4 Star Reviews for 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.02/5 Average
63 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Mercedes enters the sport-ute fray with the introduction of the ML320. Designed from a clean sheet of paper, the ML320 offers the best of the car and truck worlds.

Pros:
  • Capable sport ute with Mercedes-Benz levels of refinement.
Cons:
  • Looks like the Mercury Villager minivan from the rear.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 63.00
  • Mixed Feelings - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Even with all the bad press and reliability problems my wife and I decided to purchase the truck. Its been relatively trouble free, and reliable. Yes, there are some squeeks and rattles, but theyre minor. What repairs we did have were costly, but its a Mercedes. To quote a mechanic that worked on the car... "Youre better off with the devil you know then the devil you dont!" Well keep it for a while longer. (We do like the Highlander though!)

  • Think Twice - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Purhased my ML after experience with 2 previous MercBenz. I was immediately disappointed just weeks after purchase, when the first vibrational noise (rattle) develop. Took it back to dealer who tried but could not fix. Six months later, the drivers window switch stopped working. Approx. 9 months later, a selinoid in the tranny had to be replaced. Then, the crank pully let go, damaging the oil pan and other parts of the engine...BOTTOM LINE- about $5500 and dozens of trips to the repair shops, I have had enough.

  • Somewhere between Bad and Good - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    This was my first MB and it wont be my last, but this 98 ML has tested me. The engine is flawless, as well as, the ride and handling (better than most cars). But, the minor things kill the excitement - electrical components: dash, windows, wipers. However, my service department is professional and courteous... always willing to help. Plus, the Starmark warranty is the best.

  • M-Class Poor Reliability - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    This vehicle looks reasonbly good, handles well, gets good fuel mileage, rides well, but is not reliable. Requires frequent service.

  • Mercedes Aint What They Used To Be - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    First year or 2 had very few minor, but annoying problems -- glove box wouldnt close properly (still does not) and loose knob for adjusting the drivers seat back. Then fuel pump broke in 3rd year at 24,000 miles. Defective dealer workmanship resulted in 2nd fuel pump replacement less than a year later. At 31,000 miles and 4 1/2 years (after warranty expired) the fuel tank started leaking and needed to be replaced ($1,500.00). What do the commercials say about Mercedes quality engineering???? Give me a Toyota Highlander, Acura MDX, or a Lexus RX- 300 instead.

  • Lease is up in May! - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    During the first two years this ML was in the shop 13(not a good #) times. The next two years were flawless except for routine service. I can purchase the ML for $24,000, but I am worried about long term reliability. Considering a Toyota Highlander or a Chevy Trailblazer to replace the ML. How has everyones ML been after the first two years?

  • Well-engineered and poorly assembled SUV - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    It is not an extreme off road machine, or a full time all wheel drive hot rod. It is a tall minivan; so don’t expect a smooth ride like any MB sedan. Gas mileage is in the mid 20s, which is not bad for such a heavy car. The poor off road capability is due to the OEM tires. Once I replaced the stock 255x65x16 with a set of off road tires, my ML will go most places just like other mid size 4X4. MB needs to cut corners in materials to keep the sticker low. My only complaints are the doors. MB must have sub contracted the door design to Chrysler. ML door does not shut like German automobile at all. Driving lights could use some improvement. I added a set of driving lights to aid visibility.

  • Never Left Me Stranded - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    My suv has always been reliable Ive had it now for 12 years, the biggest problem has been the window switches that have been replaced twice for $300. Every other repair has outlasted the manufactuers recomendations. I suggest finding a good German repair faculty,repairs are on the exspensive side at the dealer. Ive gotten good gas mpg average 20.

  • Nice ride - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    I just bought this a few weeks with 96,000 miles on it. It drives just like a new car, the brakes are more responsive than most sedans. Which is amazing considering its over two tons. The interior build is not quite up to par though, when the bass from the boss system hits the interior rattles, and wind noise is excessive on the doors. On the highway it has a smooth ride and a great passing gear.

  • Lookinjg for Number 2 - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Well, I just rolled my wifes down a hill a month ago and were looking for the next one. I rolled one time on a 40- 50 ft railroad embankment and drove it out on its own power the next day. I was completely unharmed. I will continue driving the exact same 320 in "as-is" condition around town as a testiment to the safety of this vehicle

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Reviews By Year:
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