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2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
67
Latest May 18, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
14
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
9

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Electrical2024.1%
  • Engine1720.5%
  • Body & structure56.0%
  • Steering44.8%
  • Airbags44.8%
  • Powertrain (other)44.8%
  • Visibility33.6%
  • Other / unspecified22.4%
  • Exterior lighting11.2%
  • Interior & seats11.2%
  • Tires & wheels11.2%
  • Brakes11.2%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

20
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Vehicle: 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 VIN: [XXX] I have experienced repeated failures of the Blind Spot Assist / driver-assist system since purchasing this vehicle. When I first purchased the ML350 in Texas, the vehicle already showed warning messages (“Blind Spot Assist Inoperative / Pre-Safe Function Limited”). The dealer attempted repairs before delivery, but the defect persisted. After moving to New York, the problem continued. On June 26, 2023, I took the vehicle to The Automaster Mercedes-Benz in Shelburne, VT. Their diagnosis confirmed water intrusion into the blind spot radar sensors, consistent with Mercedes-Benz TSB LI54.71-P-056477. Both left and right sensors and wiring require replacement. This is a safety defect because Blind Spot Assist and Pre-Safe features are disabled without warning, increasing risk of collision when changing lanes. Many other owners have reported the same issue, and Mercedes has issued a TSB acknowledging the defect, but no recall has been provided. I request that NHTSA investigate this recurring safety problem and require Mercedes-Benz to provide coverage or a recall for affected vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11688328 · filed Sep 19, 2025

I purchased a used Mercedes-Benz from Freehold Mitsubishi in early 2024. Within hours, serious safety issues appeared, including a check engine light, cylinder misfire, EVAP leak, traction control failure, and blind spot assist malfunction. The vehicle’s ECM and wiring harness were later found damaged due to oil leaks and electrical shorts. Despite multiple repair attempts, the vehicle was returned in worse condition and remains unsafe to drive. I am reporting these issues due to their potential risk to vehicle safety.

NHTSA ID 11670372 · filed Jun 30, 2025
All 20 reports naming electrical

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

17
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I purchased a used Mercedes-Benz from Freehold Mitsubishi in early 2024. Within hours, serious safety issues appeared, including a check engine light, cylinder misfire, EVAP leak, traction control failure, and blind spot assist malfunction. The vehicle’s ECM and wiring harness were later found damaged due to oil leaks and electrical shorts. Despite multiple repair attempts, the vehicle was returned in worse condition and remains unsafe to drive. I am reporting these issues due to their potential risk to vehicle safety.

NHTSA ID 11670372 · filed Jun 30, 2025

I purchased my car used at the Mercedes dealership in Tyler Texas June 2023. I took all my savings and paid cash and was told that the car was impeccable shape and there were no current issues and all the service records were up to date. November 2023 is when everything started happening and my engine light came on. It was revealed to me by a service tech that I was sold the vehicle with an existing major oil leak /seals broke. Etc. SEE Attached invoices. I have endured driving down the road and my car just giving out and losing power steering. The car has been sputtering and there have been misfires, fauled fuel injectors, coils, s and spark plugs, oil leaks, fuel pump leaking gasoline in the engine and smoke coming from the hood. I thought my car was going to start on fire it smelled like a hot electrical wires and gasoline. My nerves are frayed from this car because of how many times it has broke down. I have missed work because of the car, I'm behind on my home bills, I missed my airline flight to see my sick father, I have had to pay for rental cars, all due to this vehicle. I am very concerned for my safety in this vehicle and I would like the vehicle fixed at the expense of Mercedes or my money back. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11657305 · filed Apr 28, 2025
All 17 reports naming engine

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH and accelerating above 40 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 40 MPH before it lost automotive power. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer, and the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V955000 (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the VIN was not associated with the recall repair. The vehicle was repaired out of pocket. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 115,000.

NHTSA ID 11729477 · filed Apr 6, 2026

As we were driving 50mph, the car stalled and lost all power. The dashboard lights all lit up and the car wouldn't start. I don't get unnerved easily and it was fairly intense not being able to move your car out of traffic. After about 5 mins, the car would start again only to stop a minute or so later. After taking the car to the dealer, the issue stemmed from the fuel pump electronics board getting wet in the spare tire wheel well where water was accumulating. This was part of the recall and the dealer installed a drain and replaced the board. HOWEVER, this issue again happened nearly one year later in our next rainy season. After taking it to the dealer, they said WE would need to replace the electronics board ourselves. We asked about the recall and they said they fixed the issue by installing the drain plug and there was nothing else they could do for us. Even the service adjuster was upset and very sympathetic to our plight as the car was obviously not fixed. Even though the drain plug was installed, the water was still acumulating in the wheel well. It seems apparent to me, and several others who have complained about the same issue, that the recall fix has not addressed the main issue of why the water is coming in and why it's still not draining. Unfortunately we're going to have to fork over $1200 to have it fixed. My ask to the NHTSA is that this issue be readdressed with Mercedes. I would like them to be notified that the recall does not address the underlying issues and the solution they provided does not fix the problem. I appreciate your time in considering this.

NHTSA ID 11700540 · filed Nov 20, 2025
All 12 reports naming fuel system

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Vehicle: 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 VIN: [XXX] I have experienced repeated failures of the Blind Spot Assist / driver-assist system since purchasing this vehicle. When I first purchased the ML350 in Texas, the vehicle already showed warning messages (“Blind Spot Assist Inoperative / Pre-Safe Function Limited”). The dealer attempted repairs before delivery, but the defect persisted. After moving to New York, the problem continued. On June 26, 2023, I took the vehicle to The Automaster Mercedes-Benz in Shelburne, VT. Their diagnosis confirmed water intrusion into the blind spot radar sensors, consistent with Mercedes-Benz TSB LI54.71-P-056477. Both left and right sensors and wiring require replacement. This is a safety defect because Blind Spot Assist and Pre-Safe features are disabled without warning, increasing risk of collision when changing lanes. Many other owners have reported the same issue, and Mercedes has issued a TSB acknowledging the defect, but no recall has been provided. I request that NHTSA investigate this recurring safety problem and require Mercedes-Benz to provide coverage or a recall for affected vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11688328 · filed Sep 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the blind spot warning light illuminated. The contact was unable to identify if another vehicle was nearby. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the blind spot detection system was inoperative. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 170,001.

NHTSA ID 11675826 · filed Jul 24, 2025
All 8 reports naming driver assistance

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Power Sun ROOF is coming off the tracks of the roof which it is attach to. I feel this is an extreme safety hazard because I believe it will eventually come off my vehicle and cause a serious accident flying into another vehicle or even a pedestrian. This was fixed by Mercedes Benz [ BENZE BUSCH of NJ ] back in to 2018 and now it is doing it again.I Contacted the dealer again about this and they refuse to repair saying Vehicle is out of warranty.I also contacted Mercedes Benz corporate Headquarters and they refuse to acknowledge the problem.Obviously this is a defect in the vehicle. I researched that they have had similar problems with other vehicles SUN ROOF problems and they acknowledge those facts and repaired them. I previously filed a complaint with the NHTSA ID #11478665 but it seems that you didn't have all the facts. Please look into this matter again now that you do. Thank YOU

NHTSA ID 11505542 · filed Feb 4, 2023

After a weekend of incessant rain, while driving a short distance (10 minutes) , this low-mileage, well-maintained 8 year old SUV suddenly stalled, Engine appeared to have powered down and the yellow Engine light came up and pressing gas pedal didn't do anything. I was fortunately able to press the Power button once frantically and re-start it once more and pull over to the side but the car refused to power on thereafter. After investigations by the shops, it appears there was water leaking "through" the body of the vehicle and into the area below the interior of the car, short circuiting Fuel Driver and stalling the car (which they subsequently repaired after draining the water and replacing/re-programming the fuel pump driver) before handing it off for the leak identification work. The car was subsequently taken to a specialist shop to figure out the leak, and they are unable to identify any reasonable source of the water leak and insurance is so far claiming this is "wear and tear". In the course of the testing, the *same* issue happened again and the car stalled while driven by the shop personnel and they could hear the sound of water inside the cabin all the way up to the front. They are unable to identify the source(s) of the leak and at this point, the car has been unusable for over 4 weeks as Insurance continues to push back and the shop can't do the additional work to identify the source in the body without insurance approval. I made attempts to contact the manufacturer but their only available contact is their Customer Support (no email/chat option) who refused to discuss this as it didn't pertain to them directly and re-directed me to talk to my own insurance company. I even reached out via Twitter but got no response. This expensive luxury SUV is not just unreliable at this point but *dangerous* where there are mysterious water leaks under natural conditions like rain leading to car stalling while in motion.

NHTSA ID 11498332 · filed Dec 20, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

After driving the car, the right/left turn signal switch fails to work (no signal is given both in the panel of the car and the external turn signal lights do not flash). However, the emergency flashers still work. I have searched the issue and found many occurrences on the Internet. Such a common issue should be a manufacturing quality issue and deserves a recall.

NHTSA ID 11483939 · filed Sep 12, 2022

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated while his wife driving 75 MPH, the steering malfunction warning light was illuminated and the steering wheel was difficult to turn at slower speeds. The driver was able to park on the side road for 20 minutes before restarting the vehicle to drive to her destination. The contact called the local dealer and was informed to replace the battery. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and had the battery replaced. The vehicle was repaired but experienced the failure for a second time. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

NHTSA ID 11461614 · filed Apr 21, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Driver side airbag malfunction without notice .serious bodily injury incase of an accident.

NHTSA ID 11675973 · filed Jul 24, 2025

DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT STAYS ON, DEALER SAYS IT'S THE WIRING IN STEERING COLUMN OR THE CONTROL MODULE AND WANTS ABOUT $1100 TO FIX. JUST ALL OF A SUDDEN CAME ON WITH NO OTHER EVENT HAPPENING.

NHTSA ID 11144916 · filed Nov 2, 2018

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Blind spot assists and turn signals go out without warning. This model should have been included in the previous recall for timing. Having the same issues as other recalled cars.

NHTSA ID 11540845 · filed Aug 25, 2023

2014 ML350 TRANSMISSION FAILURE AT 105,000 MILES HAD PROBLEMS WITH TRANSMISSION SINCE 75,000 MILES. BOUGHT NEW.

NHTSA ID 11326644 · filed May 30, 2020

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ E350. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH on the freeway, there was a popping noise coming from the sunroof and discovered it was shattered. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic for diganoses .The vehicle was not repaired The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 108,000 .

NHTSA ID 11738634 · filed May 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes- ML 350. The contact stated the panoramic roof tracking was shaking and moving slowly. There were no warning indicator lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.

NHTSA ID 11478665 · filed Aug 10, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

[XXX] obtained his vehicle from Saint Clair Shores Michigan Mercedes-Benz dealership. The dealership performed recall services, checked tires and brakes. Vehicle was inspected by dealership and released to owner. Owner drove vehicle approximately 20 minutes and tire flew off vehicle onto roadway, resulting in accident. The incident happened in Clinton Township Michigan No reported injuries. Safety equipment worked on vehicle and prevented any significant injuries. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

NHTSA ID 11432365 · filed Sep 9, 2021

I OWN A MERCEDES BENZ ML 350 2014 AND NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH IT UNTILL THIS PASS FRIDAY MARCH 31ST I WAS DRIVING TO WORK THAT MORNING I SAME WAY I ALWAYS GO AND WHILE GOING AROUND THE SMALL ROUNDABOUT THE SUV SHOT OF AND STARTED PULLING TO THE LEFT AND IT SOUNDE LIKE A PIECE OF IRON BEING DRAGED ON CONCRETE.IT CAUSED ME TO HIT AND OTHER SUV AND IT WAS VERY SCRAY FOR ME SO MERCEDES DID SOME DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND SAID THAT THE CAR WAS FINE..I DONT BELIEVE THAT IF ANY CAR DOES WHAT MINE DID THAT IT WOULD BE FINE SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH IT I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVR IT ..I TOLD THE HEAD OFFICE OF MERCEDES IN NEW JERSEY THAT THE SARASOTA FL DEALERSHIP CAN KEEP THE CAR FOR A MONTH OR SO AND DO SOME ADDITIONAL TEST AND CHECH UP ON THE ENGINE BUT I HAVE NOT HEARD BACK FROM THEM AS YET. UPDATED 05/10/17*LJ UPDATED 08/03/2017*JS

NHTSA ID 10970819 · filed Apr 5, 2017

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

After driving the car, the right/left turn signal switch fails to work (no signal is given both in the panel of the car and the external turn signal lights do not flash). However, the emergency flashers still work. I have searched the issue and found many occurrences on the Internet. Such a common issue should be a manufacturing quality issue and deserves a recall.

NHTSA ID 11483939 · filed Sep 12, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Traveling on my way home from Arizona and as my back was hurting turned on heated seats…I also had air conditioning running due to dogs in back seat…I started noticing what felt like a pinching sensation where my butt and legs meet…Stopped thr car at next rest area and noticed butt really hurt when I slid out of car…felt back there and area and hurt like heck..got into my Rv that a friend was driving and looked at it!! 2nd degree blisters/burns from heated seats!! I thought “what the heck?”as I didn’t have any marks on the seat!! Clearly the temperature spiked and causes the burns!’ I looked it up and see that MB has had a long history of this…and major litigation. But no recall!! I have pictures!! (But for obvious reasons can’t send here) I had a miserable ride home and the pain continues! It is embarrassing but I want to make sure other unsuspecting people don’t have this happen! Plus, I want it fixed…!

NHTSA ID 11519927 · filed May 1, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

I purchased four brand new "GoodYear" tires with this location in February 2024. Within two months of this purchase, I experienced two flat tires in which both times I had to pay $87 and some change. Addtionally, within a year, two of the tires became bald, indicating premature wear. Tragically, this month, the bald tires contributed to a car accident, resulting in damages of my vehicle and loss of time from work. This incident has caused significant distress and has raised serious concerns about the quality of the tires and the services provided from this location. I have attempted to resolve this matter directly with the service center and cooperate office. To this day, no adequate response has been addressed to resolve my concerns. I'm glad to live to be able to tell my story and advocate for others!!! Tire Size 255/50R19`

NHTSA ID 11655541 · filed Apr 18, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

It seems that this vehicle was not included in a brake booster recall which included this model from 2005 through 2015. The brakes are not working properly, and brake fluid has entered the master brake cylinder damaging the seal. It is extremely unsafe to operate this vehicle in this condition. Somehow, this vehicle was not included in the recall, but definitely should have been.

NHTSA ID 11704623 · filed Dec 11, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

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.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .