MERCEDES ML (1999)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 615 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
615
Avg Mileage
133,164 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1999 MERCEDES ML reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 25 years old, 74% of MERCEDES MLs from 1999 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 615 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 133,164 miles.
How does the 1999 MERCEDES ML compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1999 MERCEDES ML has 133,164 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 185,000 miles for a 25-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES ML?
The most reliable year is the 2015 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 72%. The 1999 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 1999 MERCEDES ML cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES ML by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 89% | 6,912 | 79,271 mi |
| 2014 | 88% | 8,494 | 86,775 mi |
| 2013 | 88% | 9,487 | 96,900 mi |
| 2012 | 86% | 5,231 | 100,705 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 6,382 | 109,233 mi |
| 2010 | 82% | 6,104 | 116,332 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 4,923 | 121,081 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 5,355 | 127,187 mi |
| 2007 | 81% | 5,024 | 130,037 mi |
| 2006 | 80% | 3,946 | 131,218 mi |
| 2005 | 75% | 2,047 | 126,634 mi |
| 2004 | 73% | 2,584 | 130,231 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 1,905 | 129,634 mi |
| 2002 | 77% | 1,756 | 132,786 mi |
| 2001 | 77% | 1,002 | 134,405 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 850 | 136,667 mi |
| 1999 | 74% | 615 | 133,164 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 58 | 119,333 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES ML?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1999 MERCEDES ML
The 1999 MERCEDES ML is a performance with a 3199cc petrol engine. 615 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 1999, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 133,164 miles at 25 years old, MERCEDES ML owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1999 MERCEDES ML Fuel Costs
The 3199cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1999 MERCEDES ML?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES ML Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES MLs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1999 MERCEDES ML
At 25 years old, the MERCEDES ML is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2015 model has the highest pass rate at 89%.
Alternatives to the 1999 MERCEDES ML
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2001) 77% pass rate (+3%) from 9,406 tests
- BMW Z3 (1999) 78% pass rate (+4%) from 8,191 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2001) 83% pass rate (+9%) from 4,134 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1999) 87% pass rate (+13%) from 3,668 tests