2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 3.7L Petrol · L19 RAD
2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (3.7L, petrol). First registered 30 Oct 2003. Recorded mileage 109,909 miles. MOT valid until 11 Nov 2027. Taxed until 01 Jun 2027.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ ML
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Stanmore (Wimbledon)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 11 Nov 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jun 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 109,909 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 3.7L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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.
L19 RAD Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 03/11/2026
- 109,909 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 6 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (10 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
L19 RAD MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Mercedes-Benz Ml (L19 RAD) between November 2024 and November 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 03 November 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (10 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 20 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.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Rear Coil spring fractured or broken (5.3.1 (b) (i))”; “Offside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”; “Nearside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”.
L19 RAD Mileage History
- 06/11/202497,874 mi
- 28/10/2025103,176 mi+5,302 mi
- 28/10/2025103,176 mi
- 27/10/2026109,896 mi+6,720 mi
- 03/11/2026109,909 mi+13 mi
Average of roughly 6,047 miles per year across 5 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: Good
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
This 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML features a 3.7-litre petrol engine and a clean recent MOT history with pass results in 2023, 2024, and 2025. While earlier tests in 2024 and 2025 recorded initial fails that were subsequently rectified on the same day, the vehicle shows consecutive passes at its most recent mileage of 103,176 miles.
When inspecting this 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML, verify the paperwork surrounding the same-day fail and pass results recorded in October 2025 and November 2024 to understand what rectifications were required. Check the service history for evidence of regular maintenance on the 3724.0cc petrol engine and automatic transmission. Ensure all electrical systems, four-wheel-drive components, and suspension settings operate correctly during a thorough test drive.
Running a 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML with a 3.7-litre petrol engine involves significant fuel consumption, as large displacement engines of this era are heavy on fuel. Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) will fall into the higher tax bands applicable to pre-2006 large-engine vehicles. Insurance costs will depend on the driver's profile, and maintenance budgets should account for the potential cost of replacement parts for an older luxury SUV.
Pay close attention to the suspension, braking system, and steering components, as these are common areas of wear on older Mercedes-Benz ML models. Check the bodywork and chassis for signs of corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and subframes. Review the history for any recurring advisory items and inspect the engine bay for fluid leaks from the 3.7-litre power plant.
This Blue 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has covered 103,176 miles, averaging around 4,500 miles per year since first registration in October 2003. Its MOT history shows recent passes in October 2025, November 2024, and October 2033, though the 2024 and 2025 tests initially registered a failure before passing on the same date. The recorded mileage is below average for a 23-year-old large luxury SUV.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this generation of the Mercedes-Benz ML.
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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