Should I look at anything in particular with this model?
What's the deal with the "black dots" in consumer reports evaluations?
I don't really put my faith in them all the time.

 

Well...I bought a used 2002 ML500...and yes CR dumped a load of black dots on just about all catagories, and yet, I have have had no problems with mine, nill, zip, nata. Infact it is the best bargain I have ever had in any automobile purchase, but maybe thats just my thinking. It is a bit bouncey, tight suspension, and loud (the 500 motor is loud in any car, I don't know about the 430) . The high performance tires, Goodyear Forturas, make for a lot of road noise, but stick like glue. It is a high performance vehicle, and so , it rides like one. I love mine. If you like the one you are looking at, I say go for it. Be sure to check out extended warrenties, though. Parts can be expensive, so I have heard. Service about every 10000 miles... sounds good to me.
My 2 cents worth.

 

I took possession yesterday. What a great vehicle! Acceleration! I never had it before!

I am looking for general maintenance procedures. Oil change, brakes, filters, etc.
Anything that I can do myself. I have maintained a few other vehicles for years, but never
a MB.

If anyone can pont me in the right direction or send the procedures It would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks