[khelms_98]

I have a 2010 ML350 4matic with appearance package, P2, lighting package, and it has been nearly trouble-free save a seatbelt latch error. I've had an '08 C350, '07 E350, '08 ML350, and a '10 E350 so I'm familiar with maintaining these wonderful beasts. As I quickly approach 90k miles (the highest mileage Benz I've ever had), I'd like to get all your opinions on what maintenance items, and in what order, you'd replace in order to restore the driving experience to as close to new as possible. While I know this isn't entirely possible, I'd like to do what I can to bring it back to as close to the new driving feel as I reasonably can.

It drives fine, but I'm beginning to experience a few more light clunks in the front end when turning and encountering small bumps. I've been attributing this to age and wear and tear.

What do you all think? Any and all suggestions are appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[Harv81]

Shocks and springs are the biggest things that will make a difference in the ride.

Also have someone check all the front suspension bits for wear.

 

[khelms_98]

Shocks and springs are the biggest things that will make a difference in the ride.

Also have someone check all the front suspension bits for wear.

Thanks for the quick reply! Would this affect the ease of steering and smoothness of, etc. and perhaps the clunks I feel every so often?

 

[jderrick]

When I got to the 160000km mark, I noticed a few things -- the ball joints in the back end were squeaky, the front end rattles (shocks/struts/springs), and I've been told there's a crack in the 'rubber boot' in the front end, which I just know isn't going to be cheap. If it gets bad, I'll consider doing the work in the fall, but otherwise, I'll get it done in the spring before cottage season starts up again...

Honestly, I still think my old ML is like driving a Lay-z-boy down the highway.

 

[zft325]

they now sell the complete suspension package in ebay. if you can change them yourself it will be a wonder. steering is a whole new issue. its expensive to change the steering rack. a bad steering rack bushing can cause those noise your hearing. check also both upper and lower transverse arms. they have bushings there that can cause clunking noises.

 

[khelms_98]

Thanks for all the helpful responses! Sounds like a front suspension issue. I'll probably get a jump on the bushings first since that's probably easiest and cheapest. The driver's side front control arm needs to be replaced because it's squeaking on tight turns. I'm not sure if replacing the bushings will solve that problem too without replacing the whole arm.

A reliable independent Mercedes tech should be able to identify the suspension components that need to be replaced, correct?

 

[zft325]

correct! upper arms are not that expensive compared to the lower. but there is another post of cvincent about a supplier of lower arm bushings. hope he can help you out.