SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350
Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data
Data refreshed
NHTSA has issued a “do not drive” advisory affecting this model year.
Campaign 24V298000. Confirm whether your specific vehicle is covered using its VIN before acting on this.
Check your VIN on NHTSA.govOverview
Our database contains 171 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350, most frequently naming the engine, powertrain (other) and electrical categories. 2 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 99 manufacturer communications are on file.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Complaint activity over time
When owners filed reports about this model year
View as table
| Month | Complaints filed | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 2012 | 2 | 70 |
| Nov 2012 | 3 | 73 |
| Dec 2012 | 1 | 74 |
| Mar 2013 | 3 | 77 |
| Apr 2013 | 1 | 78 |
| Jul 2013 | 1 | 79 |
| Sep 2013 | 2 | 81 |
| Dec 2013 | 1 | 82 |
| Jan 2014 | 4 | 86 |
| Feb 2014 | 2 | 88 |
| Mar 2014 | 2 | 90 |
| Aug 2014 | 2 | 92 |
| Oct 2014 | 1 | 93 |
| Dec 2014 | 2 | 95 |
| Jan 2015 | 3 | 98 |
| Mar 2015 | 4 | 102 |
| Jun 2015 | 2 | 104 |
| Aug 2015 | 2 | 106 |
| Oct 2015 | 1 | 107 |
| Feb 2016 | 1 | 108 |
| Mar 2016 | 2 | 110 |
| Jun 2016 | 4 | 114 |
| Aug 2016 | 2 | 116 |
| Sep 2016 | 1 | 117 |
| Oct 2016 | 2 | 119 |
| Dec 2016 | 1 | 120 |
| Jan 2017 | 2 | 122 |
| Feb 2017 | 4 | 126 |
| Apr 2017 | 2 | 128 |
| Oct 2017 | 1 | 129 |
| Nov 2017 | 2 | 131 |
| Feb 2018 | 1 | 132 |
| Apr 2018 | 2 | 134 |
| Jul 2018 | 1 | 135 |
| Oct 2018 | 1 | 136 |
| Dec 2018 | 1 | 137 |
| Jan 2019 | 1 | 138 |
| Mar 2019 | 1 | 139 |
| Jul 2019 | 1 | 140 |
| Sep 2019 | 1 | 141 |
| May 2020 | 3 | 144 |
| Jun 2020 | 3 | 147 |
| Jul 2020 | 1 | 148 |
| Aug 2020 | 1 | 149 |
| Dec 2020 | 1 | 150 |
| Feb 2021 | 1 | 151 |
| Sep 2021 | 1 | 152 |
| Jan 2022 | 1 | 153 |
| Apr 2022 | 1 | 154 |
| May 2022 | 1 | 155 |
| Jun 2022 | 4 | 159 |
| Jul 2022 | 3 | 162 |
| Sep 2022 | 1 | 163 |
| May 2023 | 1 | 164 |
| Jul 2023 | 2 | 166 |
| Sep 2023 | 1 | 167 |
| Oct 2023 | 1 | 168 |
| Jan 2024 | 1 | 169 |
| Feb 2025 | 1 | 170 |
| May 2025 | 1 | 171 |
What owners report
Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded
- Engine5323.3%
- Powertrain (other)3415.0%
- Electrical2912.8%
- Brakes208.8%
- Interior & seats177.5%
- Steering167.0%
- Driver assistance125.3%
- Airbags94.0%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Safety recalls
2 campaigns cover this model year
Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.
Check a VIN on NHTSA.govSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
Recent owner complaints
Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words
After starting the car, two messages appeared on the dash board. Center Gauge read: SRS Restraint System Malfunction Service Required Fuel Gauge read: SRS (in red) Took the car to our certified mechanic. After his diagnostic check- He said it was the Air Bag Module is out. Needs to be replaced at Mercedes Dealership.
- NHTSA ID
- 11661071
- Incident
- May 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V298000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle a week later, the brake warning light and the check engine warning light were illuminated, and the message "Take to Service Center" was displayed. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the brakes made an abnormal rubbing and squeaking sound, and the vehicle jerked. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for the failure to be corrected under the recall, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the recall repair failed to correct the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 163,450.
- NHTSA ID
- 11641387
- Incident
- Jul 4, 2024
- Mileage
- 163,450 mi
My car was included in the balance right shaft recall as 2nd owner I was just made aware as a result my check engine light came on. It was also learned that the car was included in faulty “balance shaft”. I should be included because my car has same diagnosis as defective equipment
- NHTSA ID
- 11564459
- Incident
- Jan 9, 2024
The fuel system faild had it replaced twice gss leaking as well as the power steering leaking badly went out while driving I had both replaced power steering is out again several months later car been sitting since then i looked up to see if there were any safty recalls I did find both on Kelly blue book and a few other sites I contacted dealership was told I could bring vehicle the the recalls don't expire once the vehicle was there received a phone call they had my vehicle however the said they didn't know what kind it was or why it was there I asked how could u not know that was told they had keys but haven't went out to look I gave all my information before the vehicle was picked up I told them the issue again I was told then that as long as it's a recall problem no charge two days later I received another call same thing not knowing what type of vehicle I explained the situation again this time I was told they see 7 recalls all expired but 1 on the break system and I will have to pay $198 plus tax $233 for diagnostic ran and that price doesn't count towards repairs I waited a few hours called in act like someone else and was told recalls don't expire when I explained what was going on and who I was they told me my recalls closed and can't reopen and the was told they didn't see anything about power steering recalls however it was before I had my car towed if this was a safety recall hiw can I tell what information is correct with old recalls and how do I get them to fix this I do have a older model that I purchased 3 years ago from what I can see on there website when putting in Vin only show current recalls and shows my vehicle not having any recalls work ever done this information was on mercedes of louisville website I feel like I'm getting the run around please help with this safety recall I have small kids and won't to be safety
- NHTSA ID
- 11552779
- Incident
- Oct 31, 2023
i encountered a major issue with the Mercedes ML350, while doing a 3 point turn in a busy suburban Toronto street.The electronic shift module left me stuck in Road way. Causing traffic back up and could not move vehicle.neither forward or reverse.tried pushing and different tactics to move vehicle off road. Had to call CAA-AAA. It was a caos situation,first tow truck could not load vehicle,all wheels were locked in drive and would not shift. Had to wait for special tow Have all four wheels lifted off onto dolly. Tow truck driver said it is a common problem.with MB,BMW and Audi.Vehicles towed to dealer sat at dealer. parts on back order and Not available for repair.Since was in Toronto away from Home. Had to source original equipment supplier to purchase part.Dealer and factory Mercedes could Not source part.back ordered.The dealer agreed to install the factory OEM part they could not source. My concern to all owners including myself in line traffic a basic traffic maneuver stuck in blocking traffic. Cannot moving vehicle jammed in gear that controlled by a shift module.no safe limp mode or emergency shift to neutral to move vehicle safely.
- NHTSA ID
- 11545931
- Incident
- Sep 21, 2023
Driver Side Low beam headlight turns off and on randomly whether the vehicle is off or on. I lose view of the road because lights turn off randomly and others cannot see me at night as well. I've tried taking my vehicle to the shop, but no one can trace down this problem. No warning was shown until recently.
- NHTSA ID
- 11533107
- Incident
- Jun 27, 2023
THEY HAVE TIMING CHAIN ISSUES . THE BALANCE SHAFTS ABD TIMING CHSIN SPROCKETS FAIL AND CAUSE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE . THIS IS MY 3RD ML350 TO HAVE THE ENGINE GO OUT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING THE MANUFACTURER COULDBE PREVENTED IF IT WAS RECALLED YEARS AGO IF YOU DONT BELIEVE THEN RESEARCH IT THANK YOU
- NHTSA ID
- 11531009
- Incident
- Jul 8, 2023
Brakes feel spongy,, when letting off accelerate feels as if transmission has a brake applied
- NHTSA ID
- 11524733
- Incident
- Apr 1, 2023
Manufacturer communications
A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.
POWER TRAIN
Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by experimentally loosening the outboard collar nut (by 1 turn), the problem is due to cracking of the microweld between the wheel bearing inner race and the joint housing of the side shaft. Note: The collar nut must always be replaced after being loosened. See also LI33.20-P-078406 Remedy Coat contact surface of side shaft with wheel bearing with Molykote paint. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Remove side shafts 2. Clean contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing before") before coating with Molykote, using "spirit" (free of dust and grease) 3. Coat contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing after") with Molykote and leave to dry for "one hour" in removed condition 4. Reinstall side shafts Note: Before using the antifriction coating (Molykote), stir it or shake it thoroughly for (at least 1 minute).
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Complaint The sliding sunroof glass panel of the panoramic roof reverses during the closing process, either once or multiple times, without an entrapment (anti‑pinch) event being detected. The concern may occur temporarily or repeatedly during normal closing operation. Cause The automatic reversing function of the panoramic roof is overly sensitive due to parameterization in combination with seal counter‑pressure. This condition can cause the roof to reverse even though no obstruction is present. Remedy Retrofit the vehicle to meet Cleanpoint status “Panoramic sliding sunroof glass panel reverses during closing without a pinch event.” The retrofit includes: • Hardware modification (installation of a cover rail / EPDM lip) • Corresponding software update for the panoramic roof control unit The prescribed retrofit steps must be performed in the specified sequence as outlined in this document. 1) Retrofit the EPDM lip onto the rear edge of the panoramic sliding roof panel: • Clean the underside of the rear edge of the sliding sunroof panel (marking, Figure 1) (e.g., isopropanol). • Subsequently install the cover rail on the underside of the sliding sunroof panel (Figure 2). - Distance from the cover rail to the rear edge of the sliding sunroof panel A = 5 mm - Distance from the cover rail to the right and left edges of the sliding sunroof panel B = 9 mm - Apply firm pressure by hand along the entire bonding surface of the COVER RAIL - The wider flange at the ends of the cover rail (see Figure 3) must point in the direction of travel 2) Submit an XSS Ticket with the following requests to add SA code O75 to the Vehicle Data Card • Enter code "O75" (Oscar 75) in Vehicle Documentation System (Vedok): • Add the following AO text to KG 78: AO code O75 added as specified in LI77.21-P-075806 (Version 7). 3) Install new software from the panoramic roof control unit (TSSR296, A98, PSD) and teach in the anti-pinch protection again: • Connect XENTRY Diagnosis. - always use the current XENTRY Diagnosis software release with all available add-ons. - Strict compliance with the operation steps in XENTRY Diagnosis is absolutely essential! - Ensure adequate power supply to the vehicle's on-board electrical system battery (greater than 12.5 V) using a battery charger. • Commission the panoramic roof control unit - To do this, select "A98 – control module 'panoramic sliding sunroof' → adaptation → commissioning → Commission the control unit." - Then follow user guidance in XENTRY Diagnosis. • Disconnect XENTRY Diagnosis.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Complaint Headlamp, front fog lamp leaky or fogged. Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4 °F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing of fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps on electric vehicles: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). 2. Connect battery backup via a charger. 3. Open the front-end flap and ensure sufficient ventilation. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in condensation, check the headlamp for malfunctions. (see Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Note: Only implement Remedy 1 for model series 463 (from model year 2018) and model series 465. Remedy 2 A defective headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness according to LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. Note: With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. • Open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078302 • Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamp/front fog lamp leaky or fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system • Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. • If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system • Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. • If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (Figure 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. • The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (Figure 3). (Figure 4) • Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Figure 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. • If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is tight and there is natural physical condensation• If a higher pressure drop than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. Observe the following documents for installation of desiccant packs: • LI82.10-P-078302 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system • LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy Check for external damage: You can identify a damaged headlamp in the following way: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent, then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: External damage to the headlamp does not present a warranty or goodwill case. 1. Clear fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). 7. If the condensation has disappeared, nothing else has to be done. Note: If defrosting has been performed, you can skip the first step. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: • Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) • Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. • All vents have to be sealed with sealing compound and the existing diaphragm with the stamp (picture 3 [3]). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). • Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. • Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). • Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged (picture 6). • If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is tight and there is natural physical condensation. • If a higher pressure drop than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. If the pressure test is not passed, the headlamp is leaky. If the cause cannot be rectified, the headlamp must be replaced. Note: If the headlamp is replaced, no dry packs may be installed on the new replacement headlamp. AR82.10-P-5455WT was created for the pressure test. **NOTE - As of Sept 2025 the pressure testing tool is not finalized and may require modifications to fit properly. This AR can be used as a reference manual for all closed headlamps. In the event of an open headlamp system, the vent ducts must be sealed before the pressure test.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Complaint Headlamp, front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4 °F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing of fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps on electric vehicles: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). 2. Connect battery backup via a charger. 3. Open the front-end flap and ensure sufficient ventilation. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 °C/+64.4°F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in condensation, check the headlamp for malfunctions. (see Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A defective headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness according to LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. Note: With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. • Open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078302 • Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.
Compare model years
Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.