MERCEDES ML 250 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 881 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
881
Avg Mileage
91,106 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2012 MERCEDES ML 250 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 89% of MERCEDES ML 250s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 881 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 91,106 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES ML 250 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES ML 250 has 91,106 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 2012 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2012 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 2012 MERCEDES ML 250
The 2012 MERCEDES ML 250 is a family car with a 2143cc diesel engine. 881 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 91,106 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES ML 250 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 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 2012 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 89% 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 2012 MERCEDES ML 250
At 12 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%.
Alternatives to the 2012 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:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-10%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (-9%) from 98,183 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (-4%) from 71,326 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (-12%) from 59,048 tests