Sup all...

I'm trying to do some research into buying an 05 ML500... tried a search, but didn't come up w/ much--just a prob w/ A/C...

Looking to get some feedback on reliability, maintenance costs, insurance, etc... Could ya help me out? Your honest opinion would be appreciated. Thanks in advance...

 

OK. I have this a 2005 Mercedes ML500 Special Edition. Late 2005 I was servicing my 2002 Ml320 and saw a certified pre-owned ML500 extremly well priced with dual tv screens and couldn't pass it up. Enough about me though. When I bought the car, I had a choice between mine and another, however the other was not a special edition. In terms of mechanics, they are id. If you want a little sportier look without the sport package, the Spec. Ed. offers a 'power dome' grill (raised bumps) most have running boards, brushed metal roof racks, darker tail lights and come with many optional features such as leather, moon roof (I believe), etc, as standard. From upgrading from the 320, I have to say that I cannot believe that I even got around in such a 'slow' car. I loved my 320, and it was relatively quick, however the 500 is 0-60 in around 7 sec. and feels faster. I use it for traveling and it is a dream to drive, with its European handling, and living in the city it gets around quite easily, better than my Audi A6. The car in general is really, really, really solid. It is easy to fix and mechanically extremely reliable, however in mine atleast, little things are not always the best. My seat heater shorted out and burnt a hold through my seat. My sunroof switch broke. Stuff like this most likely will happen, but it will never strand you, like my 320 did when the power steering went out (recalled and fixed). As for insurance, it is not the most affordable, but it is a Mercedes, and better than my Range Rover. Under warrenty, the thing is fine, but I would never buy a car that I couldn't even put on an extended warrenty. I know Continental does extended warrenties. The only thing is that it is not the new body style and if you can get past that, it is one hell of a deal. An ML 500 should go for around 30k now.