MERCEDES ML 250 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 32 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
32
Avg Mileage
115,575 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2009 MERCEDES ML 250 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 15 years old, 88% of MERCEDES ML 250s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 32 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 115,575 miles.
How does the 2009 MERCEDES ML 250 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 MERCEDES ML 250 has 115,575 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES ML 250?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2010 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2009 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2009 MERCEDES ML 250 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 250 by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES ML 250?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 MERCEDES ML 250
The 2009 MERCEDES ML 250 is a family car with a 2143cc diesel engine. 32 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 16% of all 2009 cars for reliability.
With an average of 115,575 miles at 15 years old, MERCEDES ML 250 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 MERCEDES ML 250 Fuel Costs
The 2143cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 2009 MERCEDES ML 250?
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 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES ML 250 Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES ML 250s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 MERCEDES ML 250
At 15 years old, the MERCEDES ML 250 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 2011 model has the highest pass rate at 93%. Note: with only 32 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2009 MERCEDES ML 250
The MERCEDES ML 250 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2011) 78% pass rate (-10%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-14%) from 92,611 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (-7%) from 57,568 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-16%) from 45,025 tests