The Good
The 2000 M-Class offered a comfortable ride and a prestigious badge, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it provided decent cargo space, available all-wheel drive, and a reputation (though somewhat flawed) for Mercedes build quality. The V8 engine offered ample power. Good value now as a used vehicle.
The Bad
The 2000 M-Class is known for potential electrical problems, rust issues (especially in colder climates), and transmission issues. The early production models had some quality control issues. Watch out for oil leaks and ensure all maintenance has been diligently performed. Check for proper function of all electronic systems.
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class:
- Engine Options:
- ML320: 3.2L V6
- ML430: 4.3L V8
- Horsepower:
- ML320: 215 hp
- ML430: 268 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- ML320: 16 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- ML430: 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- ML320: 9.5 seconds
- ML430: 7.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (depending on equipment)
- Trim-Level Features:
- ML320 (Base): Leatherette upholstery, power seats, automatic climate control, cruise control, alloy wheels, premium audio system.
- ML430 (Upgrade): Leather upholstery, upgraded wood trim, sunroof, memory seats, premium audio.
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Have?
Transmission problems, including harsh shifting and complete failure, have been reported. Oil leaks, especially from the valve cover gaskets and rear main seal, are also common. The air conditioning system can be problematic, with evaporator failure being a known issue.
Several recalls were issued for the M-Class, including issues with the fuel filter, seat belt buckles, and potential for a power steering hose leak. These recalls should be verified as completed before purchasing a used model.
Long-term reliability is a concern due to the age of the vehicle and the aforementioned issues. Regular maintenance is crucial, but even with diligent care, the 2000 M-Class can be prone to expensive repairs. Specific model year variations in problem frequency are not significant; the general issues persist across the early W163 generation.
How long will the 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment: Standard features included a premium audio system with a cassette player and CD player. An optional Bose sound system was available. There was no touchscreen interface or smartphone integration.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited to cruise control and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Traction control was standard.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, side airbags (optional), and ABS. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was introduced later in the W163 generation but might not be standard in the 2000 model.
Optional Features: Optional features included a navigation system (using a small screen and CD-based maps), a sunroof, and heated seats.
Crash Test Ratings: The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2000 M-Class 4 stars for driver and passenger frontal crash protection, and 5 stars for side impact protection. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings vary, but generally the M-Class performed adequately in moderate overlap front crash tests for the time. The rollover rating was a concern.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Prices and Market Value
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Cost of Ownership
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Fuel Efficiency
2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
In terms of price now, the M-Class is relatively inexpensive compared to some of its rivals. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a similar blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, and parts may be easier and cheaper to source. The Lexus RX300, while not as rugged, provides superior reliability and a more refined experience.
Alternatives like the Acura MDX (later model years like 2003+) offer better reliability and similar features at a comparable price point. The BMW X5 of the same era may offer a sportier driving experience but can also be costly to maintain. Ultimately, if reliability is a top priority, the Lexus or Acura are better choices.
Ranks #715 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 715 | 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
Ozzie on July 10, 2022
Reliable SUV. Strong and nice driving in mountainsI been driving this SUV since I bought in 2000. Very reliable smooth and safe to drive. Maintenances are reasonable and manageable. Had 178k now and still runs smoothly. Will keep the car until it dies
tumbleweed378 on March 14, 2020
Best used car ive ever bought!Upon a trip home to sc from west tx, id initially wanted a domestic suv (expedition,ect) but after a short test drive of the 2000 ml320 i quickly changed my mind! As with any used car i was very reluctant to immediately take off on the 1200 mile trip back to texas, not knowing if it could be trusted. Being lucky in speaking to its prior (& only) owner,i felt assured. It handled the trip great with no problems & i fell in love with it! Ive been a longhaul truckdriver for over 20yrs & this is the only vehicle that i really had to make adjustments in getting used to driving it & its effects on me to. What i mean is, it was so quiet,comfortable, and smooth, id never encountered one like it & wasnt used to it, so i drove with the a/c on or the window cracked so i wouldnt get too sleepy. So, IM SOLD! i 100% love this car & my next one will be the same & while i could go on & on about its options (which are plenty) just the constant AWD & knowing it can get me out of a jam or a possibly threatening scenario in the middle of nowhere is enough for me! Thanks Mercedes! from a converted,once hardcore,v8 gearhead.
LuP on November 18, 2018
PerfectBought it from original owner who owned it for 18 years. Car still looks great and handles like a Benz should. With 163k and drives like a dream even on NYC rough roads. Still feels good driving a Benz.
Luv'n Mercedes in Naples on October 20, 2018
You won't find a safer, cleaner used MB SUV!We maintain our vehicles to keep them a long time. If taken care of like my wife has since we bought it new this gem easily has another 200K miles! This was our first Mercedes; 3 since then (2 for daughters). Picking up our 5th one today-yes another Mercedes SUV.
JaredJc on May 31, 2018
Most fun SUV I've ever owned, performs great!It's a classy ride, looks good runs and performs great with many options such as heated seats, folding mirrors, rear view camera, chrome rims, Kenwood sound system, moon roof and more.
phred7777 on February 25, 2018
Best SUV I have ownedThe ML320 is simple technology and a 4 x 4 system that works. It runs circles around the 2007 Mercury Mariner we have. Maintenance is simple. I have no less than six different drivers using this vehicle and they all love it.
misscapo2018 on February 22, 2018
great cari got my mercedes suv last year and have loved it since.it drives great its a beautiful car and its very reliable.it has a large trunk space which works great for my kids stroller and things.the heated seats are a nice feature and the kids love looking out of the sun roof at night to see the stars.i would recommend this car to anyone!
Randyax3 on February 4, 2018
Most reliable car I usedGood everything good the I like everything v about it I want to own one hopefully soon I been wanting a car like this
downsb on November 12, 2017
Excellent Manners both on and off roadRides well, very capable, well designed, reliable. Easy to get in and out of with a good hip height for an average person. Heated seats make early morning/late night rides during the winter enjoyable. The low hood means you can easily see where the edges of your vehicle are when you're off-roading and need to know where to place your wheels. Half-shaft design means that your driveshaft isn't hanging out in a place easily damaged. It isn't stand-out in design but the materials are good. Fit and finish isn't as tight as you'd expect for a Mercedes but everything just keeps working. My biggest complaint is that the vehicle uses too much fuel, and the engine bay is very tight- making do-it-yourself repairs more time consuming (changing plugs, belts, pumps, etc). The tires are an abnormal size and the wheel lug spacing is abnormal as well making replacement more costly. AWD is designed so that it's only on when there's a slip sensed, the majority of the time you'll be pushed along using the rear wheels- transition is fairly seamless though. On road it's as quiet as you'd expect for a vehicle from the late 90's, early 2000's. Not at the level of soundproofing used in current generation vehicles, but conversations aren't difficult. Fuel economy (on recommended/required premium grade) isn't any better or worse than a vehicle from this period.
Ali on November 11, 2017
I owned hood and comfortable carMake it feel better when I sit in the car . Car is neat and clean. Inside room big and good for family.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.