MERCEDES ML (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 5,355 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
5,355
Avg Mileage
127,187 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2008 MERCEDES ML reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 16 years old, 82% of MERCEDES MLs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 5,355 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 127,187 miles.
How does the 2008 MERCEDES ML compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 MERCEDES ML has 127,187 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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 2008 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2008 MERCEDES ML cost to run?
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 2008 MERCEDES ML
The 2008 MERCEDES ML is a performance with a 3996cc diesel engine. 5,355 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 127,187 miles at 16 years old, MERCEDES ML owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 MERCEDES ML Fuel Costs
The 3996cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 MERCEDES ML?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% 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 2008 MERCEDES ML
At 16 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%. With 5,355 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 MERCEDES ML
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES E (2009) 80% pass rate (-2%) from 14,250 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2010) 85% pass rate (+3%) from 14,167 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2007) 82% pass rate (same) from 9,247 tests
- AUDI Q7 (2007) 84% pass rate (+2%) from 7,283 tests