I have a 99 ML320 (112,000 miles) and the brakes have begun pulsing a bit. The pads are near requiring replacement, so I am thinking about replacing pads and rotors. It has been a few years since I did any amount of this kind of work myself. How tough is this job going to be? Are there any special tools required for this? Any recommendations on replacemetn parts?

 

Not sure about the rotors as I did not have to replace mine but you will need a set of Torx drivers(male) to remove the brake calipers. Be careful as there are electric brake sensors on the front pads that you need to unplug and put back the same way so it does not get caught on the front member on turns. MB pads are now very expensive so I got mine at my local Autoparts shop. Good luck.

 

V.
Thanks for the advice. i am finding conflicting information on what is the acceptable thickness of the rotors. at what point should they be replaced? Or, as some recommend, should they automatically be replaced when replacing the pads?

 

Yes. it is good practice (unless you are a penny pincher andcant) reason is so that the pads and rotors mate up better ans seats itself correctly.

 

Use OE pads and rotors to avoid brake squeal and premature wear.

Some ML pad sets include the wear sensors some don't so make sure you get the new sensors one way or another.

The minimum thickness is faintly stamped into the rotor hub somewhere though hard to find and at 112k miles you need them if they haven't been replaced before.

Mercedes uses soft steel and soft pads to reduce squeal. Also get 2 foil packs of Mercedes Brake paste to smear on the back of the pads P/N A 001 989 94 51 10 if I remember right.

You will probably need your complete VIN number to get the right pads and rotors so be sure to take it with you.

 

Very simple to do. 2 torx bolts to be removed and a c-clamp to push the calipers down for a wider opening for new pads from auto parts store (use gels that they sell to prevent noise also). You can also use the ceramic pads to sightly smooth out the rotors and prevents brake dust and noise. Semi-metallics are OEM.