1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 defect investigations

Investigations by NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation that name the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320. An investigation is how complaints can become a recall: complaints → investigation → (sometimes) TSB → recall.

• ENGINE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY FAILURE
  Preliminary Evaluation PE03058 · opened Dec 17, 2003 · closed Apr 22, 2004

  The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate allegations of engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure that could result in loss of power-steering assist.odi has received a total of 546 non-duplicative reports that allege engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer …

• POWER STEERING HOSE ASSEMBLY LEAKAGE
  Preliminary Evaluation PE03006 · opened Feb 13, 2003 · closed Apr 4, 2003 · led to recall 03V121000

  The hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the steering fluid cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force for the connection.the loss of power steering fluid may result in gradual reduction in power steering assist (I.e., increased steering effort) over time, with potential damage to th…