2002 Mercedes-Benz ML 5.4L Petrol · DG51 AMG
2002 Mercedes-Benz ML (5.4L, petrol). First registered 14 Jan 2002. Recorded mileage 164,574 miles. MOT expired on 14 Aug 2026. Currently declared SORN. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ ML
- Year / Origin
- 2002 · Chester
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 14 Aug 2026
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 164,574 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 5.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
DG51 AMG Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 15/08/2025
- 164,574 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
DG51 AMG MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2002 Mercedes-Benz Ml (DG51 AMG) between September 2022 and August 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 5 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (4 issues), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
DG51 AMG Mileage History
- 13/09/2022156,704 mi
- 14/08/2023160,844 mi+4,140 mi
- 16/08/2024164,105 mi+3,261 mi
- 15/08/2025164,574 mi+469 mi
Average of roughly 2,694 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz ML-Class / GLE (W166)
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution. While the V8 Mercedes offers luxury, this vehicle shows a history of significant structural rust and mechanical neglect that makes it a high-risk purchase.
When inspecting this ML, you must prioritize a thorough underside check. The MOT history explicitly mentions 'excessive corrosion' near the towbar mounting and recurring rust on the rear suspension components. Check if the rust is surface deep or structural, as structural repairs on a vehicle of this age can be costly.
Examine the steering and suspension thoroughly. The history shows multiple failed ball joints, steering rack gaiters, and anti-roll bar bushes. Ensure there is a comprehensive service history, particularly for the 5.4L V8 engine, as oil leaks have been noted in both 2022 and 2024 tests.
Running costs will be substantial due to the 5439cc engine. You should expect poor fuel economy, likely well below 15-20 mpg, and high tax bands associated with large displacement engines. Insurance groups for older large luxury SUVs are also typically high.
Maintenance is expensive, especially for Mercedes-specific suspension components and V8 parts. Expect annual costs, including fuel, tax, and maintenance, to range between £3,500 and £5,000 depending on annual mileage.
Focus heavily on the chassis and frame, specifically around the towbar area where it previously failed for excessive corrosion. Check for any structural repairs. Also, inspect the brake lines for corrosion, as these have been a recurring advisory throughout the vehicle's MOT history.
Test the steering rack and suspension. Given the history of failed track rod ends and ball joints, listen for any knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces. Verify the parking brake operation, as it has failed efficiency tests multiple in the past.
This 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML features a large 5.4L V8 engine and over 164,000 miles. While it has passed its recent MOTs, the history reveals recurring issues with chassis corrosion, suspension wear, and brake failures. The vehicle suffered a particularly poor MOT in 2021, suggesting maintenance may have been deferred in the past.
No aggregate data available for this specific model, but early ML models are known for complex suspension issues and potential rust problems.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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