Never Without A Warranty?

You have had tough luck.

Your ML (and all of them barring a small batch) were/are built in the USA, and the first generation -- incl yours, I think -- were beset with problems.

Other models built outside Germany also had issues.

Merc's top management conceded the problems, from what I recall and, as far as I know, these have all been overcome.

I was fortunate with my models (1993 190 and 2001 CLK Cab) not have these inherent problems.

In other words, you may still safely consider Merc in future.

DAS

You have had tough luck.

Your ML (and all of them barring a small batch) were/are built in the USA, and the first generation -- incl yours, I think -- were beset with problems.

Other models built outside Germany also had issues.

Merc's top management conceded the problems, from what I recall and, as far as I know, these have all been overcome.

I was fortunate with my models (1993 190 and 2001 CLK Cab) not have these inherent problems.

In other words, you may still safely consider Merc in future.

DAS

Not much. Only about 48 000 miles. In recent years I hardly use it/drive much...

I used to discuss the tech problems, many highlighted in this group when it was much more active, with my local MB workshop, and they would talk about them frankly. E.g. they criticised the 1st-generation A Class, one of the Cs...but, like I said, they also pointed out out the issues were addressed.

Maybe top management got too diverted by their non-vehicle adventures.

This article goes into the quality problems but does not mention the 'sister' companies

However, this 1986 article does report on an inglorious chapter:

"In a 12-month buying spree that ended earlier this year, the company acquired three large industrial conglomerates that make a bewildering range of products from airplanes to home appliances."

Not much. Only about 48 000 miles. In recent years I hardly use it/drive much...

I used to discuss the tech problems, many highlighted in this group when it was much more active, with my local MB workshop, and they would talk about them frankly. E.g. they criticised the 1st-generation A Class, one of the Cs...but, like I said, they also pointed out out the issues were addressed.

Maybe top management got too diverted by their non-vehicle adventures.

This article goes into the quality problems but does not mention the 'sister' companies

However, this 1986 article does report on an inglorious chapter:

"In a 12-month buying spree that ended earlier this year, the company acquired three large industrial conglomerates that make a bewildering range of products from airplanes to home appliances."

Personally I would have no hesitation in buying another Merc-- plus I like the upright star on the bonnet (hood), sadly disappearing from many models.

However, only you can decide which car appeals to in appearance and 'driveability'.

DAS