Questions and Answers

ML320 Vibration Q. Dear Mr.Ciulla: I am writing about the model: 1998 Mercedes Benz ML 320 with 56,000 miles on it. Since the fall of this 2001 (about 50,000 miles then), I started to feel the engine vibration in the gas pedal. The vibration and the engine noise start always at about 1,800 rpm and always end by 2,100 rpm.

I give more or less gas to go out of this rpm range, the vehicle/engine is extremely smooth and I feel no vibration. Some times (one out of three) though the engine is smooth, period (at all rpm's). I would like this to be the case always.

To give you the history of the vehicle, the engine was rebuilt (pistons and valve rings replaced at 49,000 miles because of engine oil loss) and currently the vehicle also has a starter problem. One out of every 20 times or so the engine does not start and I get a scary noise when I try to start. Simply retry starting and everything is fine. The vibration makes my foot go to sleep at times.

Your help is greatly appreciated.
Raj

A. The vibration, coupled with the starting problem would lead me to believe the problem is with the flywheel. Either it has come loose or is damaged in some way. I would have the dealer look at it and tighten or replace it as required. I would do this quickly as the problem will only get worse and cause more damage to the engine and transmission.

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