MERCEDES ML250 (2012)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 33 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,895
£158/month
MOT Pass Rate
91%
Excellent
Road Tax
£395
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2200cc Diesel
Great Choice
91% pass rate, £1895/year to run. 9 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 2200cc
Low estimate due to excellent reliability
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 9 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 14 years old, 91% of MERCEDES ML250s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 33 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 89,143 miles.
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Mileage Analysis
89,143
Average miles
103,600
Expected for age
The average 2012 MERCEDES ML250 has 89,143 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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About the 2012 MERCEDES ML250
The 2012 MERCEDES ML250 is a family car with a 2200cc diesel engine. 33 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 17% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 89,143 miles at 14 years old, MERCEDES ML250 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 MERCEDES ML250 Fuel Costs
The 2200cc 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 ML250?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,895 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £395 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 91% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES ML250
At 14 years old, the MERCEDES ML250 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. Note: with only 33 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2012 MERCEDES ML250's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 89k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2012 MERCEDES ML250 stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MERCEDES ML250(2012) | 91% | £1245 | £395 | Grp 25-38 | £1895 |
| VAUXHALL ASTRA(2013) | 79% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£168 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2012) | 80% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1577-£318 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2013) | 85% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1577-£318 |
| FORD TRANSIT(2014) | 77% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050+£155 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Mercedes Models
Explore other Mercedes cars or similar models in the same category.
MERCEDES A
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MERCEDES C
2017 · 1991cc Hybrid
MERCEDES A-CLASS
2017 · 1461cc Diesel
VAUXHALL ASTRA
2013 · 1700cc Diesel
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
2012 · 1896cc Diesel
BMW 3 SERIES
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