track season is just around the corner, so I've decided to purchase a new ML350 to tow my race car. When I took the ML to the trailer vendor, he said that even though I bought the ML with the towing hitch, I need to go back to the dealer in order to get a part that would allow for the installation of the brake controller. I can't remember the part name, but the darn thing costs almost $700 bucks.
The parts guy at Mercedes told me that the "regular" towing hardware is good for 3000 pounds, since you most likely won't use a brake controller, but if you go over that, you need to purchase this extra piece.
What a rip off!
Anyone with previous experience towing with a new ML? I'm new to this and didn't like it. If they say it can pull 7,200 pounds, they should sell the car ready to go once you purchase their towing package.
Most any light truck is going to need additional parts for a brake controller to be installed. Personnely I wouldn't attempt to go over 3000-5000 lbs with a v6 ml anyways. Doesn't have the power and with a wheelbase that short your not going to enjoy the ride if your using a car trailer with a car on it. If your going to be towing in the 7000 lbs range I would get a 3/4 ton truck.
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Kent, that's not what I said. I'm not looking for a free brake controller. There's another part that one must replace on the ML in order to ALLOW for a brake controller. This is what I personally don't think it is right. If you pay for a towing kit, MB should give you all necessary wiring etc..
ArmyRover, thanks for your input. My rig will weight 5,300 pounds. I'll try a short distance first, before venturing farther. But yes, I may need to get something with a wider wheelbase. Today was very very windy here in CT, and the ML moved quite a bit side to side compared to my 4.4 X5 which is firmly planted. But we all know the difference in ride quality between the two..
Nice comment by Chris sounding like he's trying to be your mother.
Exactly what part is missing?
Of course nothing beats a proper truck for towing a heavy trailer. But with todays high gas prices, using a truck as a daily driver can be a pain.
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