2010 Mercedes-Benz ML 3.0L Diesel · PN60 DXW

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML presents a mixed maintenance picture that has stabilised in the most recent test. The January 2026 pass at 182,269 miles with zero defects is the cleanest result in the entire five-year record, suggesting the previous owner addressed a cluster of serious faults that caused the October 2024 failure. That improvement is notable, but the underlying pattern across 2023 and 2024 reveals recurring issues with brake components, suspension bushes, and fluid integrity that a buyer should not overlook simply because the latest certificate is advisory-free. The mileage accumulation is broadly consistent with typical use for a vehicle of this age. Between the November 2023 pass at 175,513 miles and the January 2026 pass at 182,269 miles, the vehicle covered 6,756 miles over roughly twenty-six months, which equates to approximately 260 miles per month or 3,120 miles per year. That is significantly lower than the lifetime average of around 11,392 miles per year, indicating either a change in ownership pattern, reduced daily use, or a period of limited activity. The gap between the October 2024 failure and the November 2024 retest at the identical mileage of 180,682 miles confirms the vehicle was stationary during that repair window, which is consistent with a failure-to-retest cycle rather than active use. The October 2024 failure is the most technically concerning entry in the record. The tester flagged a corroded nearside rear coil spring, excessively worn rear brake discs on both sides, an excessive front engine oil leak, and a non-functioning nearside front position lamp. The rear brake disc wear was described as significant and obvious, which on a vehicle of this age and mileage raises questions about whether the rear calipers are binding or if the pads were simply left beyond their serviceable limit. The coil spring corrosion is a structural concern specific to the ML platform, where rear springs are known to suffer from corrosion-induced fracture, particularly on higher-mileage examples. A prospective buyer should have the rear suspension inspected on a ramp, specifically checking both rear coil springs for cracking or advanced corrosion at the top and bottom mounting points, and verifying that the rear brake calipers slide freely without seized guide pins. The 2023 failure adds further context. Brake fluid was recorded as significantly below the minimum mark, and the brake pedal was going to the floor, indicating either a fluid leak in the hydraulic system or severely worn pads and discs that pushed the pistons too far out. Combined with the worn front lower suspension arm bushes flagged in the November 2023 pass, this points to a period where basic chassis and braking maintenance was neglected. The oil leak has persisted as an advisory since at least November 2023, appearing in three consecutive tests, which suggests a slow but ongoing seep from the engine that has not warranted urgent repair but should be traced to its source. A buyer should check the underside of the engine for fresh oil accumulation around the rocker cover gasket, sump, and front crankshaft seal, and verify the brake fluid level and condition at the master cylinder reservoir before committing to purchase.