Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class reliable?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class scores 65/100 (C) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the moderate risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

See the Common Issues section above for the top failure areas reported by real owners, with typical mileage ranges where problems start showing up.

How much does it cost to maintain a 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

Expected maintenance costs depend heavily on age, mileage and how well the vehicle was kept up. Run the full report for a year-by-year cost outlook.

What should I check before buying a 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

Focus on the top risk areas flagged in this report, review service history, and verify the vehicle is not inside one of the mileage danger zones listed above.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class Reliability ReportKeepScore 65/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

65/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C

A tempting luxury SUV that requires a hefty repair budget and a high tolerance for electrical quirks.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class

Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2001 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class earns a 68.
The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (moderate severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2002 model year.

2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class: Buy or Avoid?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class can be a budget-friendly way to enter luxury SUV ownership, but it demands a significant ongoing investment in maintenance and repairs. While the core mechanicals are generally robust, its complex electrical system and propensity for rust can lead to frequent and costly issues, making diligent pre-purchase inspection and a substantial repair fund absolutely essential for any prospective owner.

Biggest Strengths

Robust core engine designs (M112/M113)
Comfortable ride and spacious interior for its era
Capable full-time AWD system for all-weather driving

2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electrical Systemmoderate

Transmissionmajor

Rust and Corrosionmajor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class. Click any year for its full report.

All Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class years ranked →Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class years to avoid →Mercedes-Benz Ml-Class common problems →

Competing 2002s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2001 ToyotaLand Cruiser

88/100

2000 ChevroletCorvette

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Frequently Asked Questions

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