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Known Faults Database

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Common Problems & Known Faults (UK)

If you are considering buying a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 3 known faults for this model, 3 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Mercedes-Benz M-Class 2005-2014 Models (2005-2014) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Oil cooler seals fail in the 'V' of the engine causing massive oil leaks

Rough guide
£800-1500

Typical symptoms

  • oil pooling in the engine valley
  • oil leaking down the back of the engine onto the undertray
  • burning oil smell in the cabin

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.0 V6 CDI (OM642)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
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Mercedes-Benz M-Class 2004-2008 Models (2004-2008) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Soft metal on the balance shaft timing gear wears completely away, destroying engine timing

Rough guide
£2000-4000

Typical symptoms

  • Engine Management Light (EML) on
  • fault codes P0016 / P0017 (camshaft timing)
  • rough running or misfiring

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.5 V6 Petrol (M272) / 5.5 V8 (M273)
Typical mileage:
60000-90000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

Mercedes-Benz M-Class W220 / W211 / W164 (1999-2011) problems

SuspensionHigh severity📝 Editorial

Air suspension compressor failure, relay failure, or leaking air struts causing the car to collapse

Rough guide
£800-2500

Typical symptoms

  • car sitting very low over the wheels
  • red 'AIRMATIC Visit Workshop' warning on dash
  • compressor running constantly

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All with Airmatic
Typical mileage:
80000-120000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: June 2026

Other Mercedes-Benz models

E-Class6 known faultsC-Class5 known faultsSLK2 known faults