ML350 3.5 V6 (M272)
2005–2011 · petrol · 3498cc · 272hp
Engine codes: M272
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Mercedes Benz M-Class (ML) ML350 3.5 V6 (M272). Check this before you buy used.
The M272 3.5 V6 petrol is smooth and strong but thirsty in the heavy ML, and early examples (roughly 2005–2008) are known for balance-shaft / idler-gear wear — the gear teeth wear and throw a timing-correlation fault, an expensive engine-out repair. Mercedes revised the gear later. A post-2008 car, or an early one with the balance-shaft work done/verified, is fine; an unknown early M272 is a real risk. Otherwise the usual cam-adjuster and gasket items.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (M272) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Early M272 balance-shaft/idler gear wears → timing-correlation fault; expensive engine-out fix.
Fix / Workaround: Check for camshaft-correlation codes; revised gear; verify history.
Repair cost: €1500–€3500
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Cam adjusters (magnets) and gaskets niggle with age.
Fix / Workaround: Replace adjusters/gaskets as needed.
Repair cost: €200–€800
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 150,000 km: Balance-shaft risk (early cars).
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Early car: balance-shaft/correlation history
- ☐Prefer 2008+
- ☐Thirsty — diesel is the sensible ML
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mercedes Benz M-Class (ML) ML350 3.5 V6 (M272) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The M272 3.5 V6 petrol is smooth and strong but thirsty in the heavy ML, and early examples (roughly 2005–2008) are known for balance-shaft / idler-gear wear — the gear teeth wear and throw a timing-correlation fault, an expensive engine-out repair. Mercedes revised the gear later. A post-2008 car, or an early one with the balance-shaft work done/verified, is fine; an unknown early M272 is a real risk. Otherwise the usual cam-adjuster and gasket items.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Mercedes Benz M-Class (ML) ML350 3.5 V6 (M272)?
The most commonly reported problems: Balance-shaft / idler-gear wear (early), Camshaft adjuster / gaskets.
Is a used Mercedes Benz M-Class (ML) ML350 3.5 V6 (M272) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.