2007/2008 Ml280 Cdi - Been offered my dad's car. DPF?

[HannsG]

Hi,

My dad is emigrating and has offered me his Ml280 CDI. I have been put off by the dreaded issues of DPFs.

Having had a 2008 TTiD Saab and with a change in work circumstances I kept having issues due to the short journeys.

Did Mercedes make the DPF standard on the ML around 2007-2008

Cheers

[Saudade]

Easiest and best way to be 100% is to get the data card for the VIN number from a dealer, there are some Russian/Ukrainian sites that can do it too if you want to PM me it/post it up - I'm sure me or someone else can track one of the sites down.

Failing that, soot on the tailpipes is a good indicator it doesn't have one.

[lcs_turbo]

I recently bought a 2005 C320 CDI and had the same fear. After doing a bit of digging on www.mbclub.co.uk and www.mercedesclub.org.uk , I found www.datamb.com - here you can enter your VIN which will give you the build spec. For my car I found that code 474 is the DPF - if you have that code you have a DPF. Don't know if it will be the same code for the ML series, but it might be worth having a look there

Good luck!

[HannsG]

Cheers guys,

Does seem hit and miss. Looking forward to finding out.

Anyone have any experience with the ML? It's been fairly reliable I think, although my dad did have the gearbox looked at I think.

[HocusPocus]

I have not had major issues with my ML280 in 5 years, even though it is used for towing a race trailer and launching a powerboat. Depreciation at this age is negligible and it remains comfortable. Watch out for rear brake calipers seizing....you will smell it when you stop. General versatile workhorse...if that is what you want out of the car.

Maintenance costs are bearable if you find a decent indie garage staffed by ex MB spanner. It likes to drink lots of diesel...especially when towing.

DPF??? If worried, take it for a whack down the motorway to get the exhaust hot.