2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.18/5 Average
148 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The ML430 is replaced by the ML500, which has a 5.0-liter V8 packing 288 horsepower. Over 1,100 parts of the truck have been modified, but the ML's exterior remains largely the same. New bumpers, clear-lens headlights and revised side mirrors are the most noticeable exterior changes. Inside, the center console sports a new look, and wood grain trim becomes standard on all models. A new automatic climate control system is now standard, and rear-seat passengers get dual cupholders and separate ventilation controls.

Pros:
  • Safe, comfortable, car-like ride and handling, surefooted in bad weather.
Cons:
  • Reputation for poor build quality, looks like a minivan from some angles, confounding COMAND navigation system.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 148.00
  • 2 nd year review - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Has been in the shop for mulitple malfunctions all addressed by dealership on SEVERAL visits and Park Places Road Side Repair service. Brake pads stink!! I am at 27,500 and told the brake pads have 10% left? Set number 3. 2nd set at 12,500 miles. Told by dealership it is due to AWD and common with their brake pads? This is my first Mercedes. Never had an issue with Japanese and US autos with AWD. To spend 50K+ on an auto and having to replace ONLY REAR pads for $311.00? That is crap!! Designers, take notice of the issues to keep Mercedes image and return buyer.

  • Mercedes ML500 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Im thoroughly pleased with this vehicle. The SUV provides a comfortable ride and feels safe in all weather. Great and comfortably priced introduction to a Mercedes.

  • No Lemon Here - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    Despite so many negative reviews of the ML-class, our experience with this vehicle since purchasing it new has been one of trouble free driving. While its true that some of the plastic interior materials are of lower quality than one would expect from Mercedes Benz, the fit and finish of the vehicle has been excellent. I really have no complaints about this SUV. It has always started; the AC is perfect; no electrical issues; the drive train is sound; the chassis is solid and squeak-free. Perhaps weve just been lucky, but after 65,000 miles this Benz has been at least as reliable as my old Mitsubishi Montero...which was the best car Ive ever owned.

  • DISAPPOINTING - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    This is the second SUV I have owned, and my first MErcedes Benz. Unless I can afford the S500, it will be my last Mercedes Benz. It is a very unreliable as parts that I have never even heard of break down with minimal notice. I have been at the repair shop so often that I know every service agent by first name. THis is a very disappointing car for the mercedes benz logo. It has destroyed almost every degree of respect I have for the brand. This comes close to being the worst item I have ever owned.

  • ML320 Report - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    We have 7,000 trouble free miles with our ML320. With the red exterior we get numerous positive comments concerning its looks. The 320 engine is quick off the line, but lacks punch above 40 MPH. Fuel economy has been acceptable, nothing to write home about. Its holding its value, which is one of the reasons we selected a Mercedes. Id buy another one, but Id opt for the V-8 version.

  • GREAT TRUCK! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    THE ML320 IS ONE OF THE EST VEHICLES I HAVE EVER OWNED! IT SO ROOMY AND COMFORTABLE, I RECOMMEND IT TO ANYONE LOOKING FORA NEW TRUCK/SUV.

  • Very safe & Solid SUV - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    This is a very safe and solid SUV, while it may lack some bells and whistles; it has all that it needs to be a solid SUV. I’ve owned 4 of these, 1998 ML 320 2000 ML 320, 2001 ML 430, and 2002 ML 500. It was my wife’s vehicle, I bought this for her to keep her safe, and when a new safety feature was released I traded in the previous one for a new one (stability control, curtain airbags…) I lost her to cancer at 31 years old. So now I keep her ML500 in the garage all waxed and clean. Some people complain about that the tires and or brakes wear out around 20k miles, I’ve experienced this too, but keep in mind that this SUV is almost 5,000 pounds, twice as heavy as an average sedan.

  • The Perfect SUV - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    I just recently bought my daughter her first car. She wanted and SUV so I bought her an ML500. I knew it was safe and would run forever. Everybody I know who has owned one had never once taken it to the shop. She loves the looks and I like the comfort of knowing she is safe. The features are great and you get a lot for your money.

  • So Far - So Good - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    With under 500 miles on the ML320, all is performing fine. I did notice however that the ML320 has gained a lot of weight since 1998. This weight increase probably accounts for the reduction in gas mileage over my 1998. The 2002 is a vast improvement over the 98/99 model. ML’s have always handled well, and they are awesome in light off road travel. The 2002 is a credit to MB for continually improving their products. Go for it.

  • The new ml 320 2002 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
    By -

    I love my new ml320 2002 model. Its fun to drive and its loaded with features. Nothing beats a Mercedes Benz. I dont think I will ever go back to either a Japanese or American car ever again.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Reviews By Year:
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