NO ONE WANTED TO FIX THIS MERCEDES W164 ML V6 CDI! WE SAVED SHIFTING METAL £2800!

[@sprautos]

Evening everyone, hope your all good and well. Hope you enjoy this one, always good feeling when you have saved someone some money. GOOD NEWS HOODIES ARE BACK IN STOCK! 🎉 See link in description. All the best everyone.

[@powerje75]

Great job, great video! Thanks for sharing Sam

[@stevie750iL]

@@sprautos I think you underestimate you and your garage staffs ability to resurrect these old time Mercs. What I find truly heartwarming is your connection with the customer. I.e. you're not out to "shaft them" You run a tight ship with a truly ethical work ethos base around customers. That's a rare commodity nowadays.

[@sprautos]

@@stevie750iLthank you very much.

[@juerbert1]

I very much like your laid-back approach; nothing apparently can rattle you, which I find incredibly appealing !😅

[@pauldavies6826]

Mate, it great to see a really conscientious tradesmen that doesn't rip people off. I'm a builder and bricklayer, I've always traded the same way...unlike a plumber who changed a £700 boiler, was there with an apprentice for 6 hrs, and charged £4.900, £4k for a days work. I call it stealing.

[@nigelmadeley7117]

Proper mechanic. Best channel on KZbin and yes I am a customer!

[@danricci6996]

Telling the world that the misses " treats the car like it's a wheelie bin" someone will sleep on the couch for awhile 🤣🤣

[@sprautos]

😂 possibly a bad idea now 😂

[@doru10922]

​@@sprautosI can see you rethink 😂

[@Truthfullyspoken66]

Thank you for being an honest businessman. You seem very genuine and appear to actually care about your customers and their cars unlike most mechanics who just want as much money as possible.

[@clonSanG]

I would recommend any one from all over Europe to send there car to you there’s very few men as good as you at Mercedes well done such a talent

[@LondonCarnaval]

Unfortunately he doesn't take anymore new customers according to one of his awesome videos 😕 😔 😢 😞 😪 He is the BEST Mercedes-Benz MAN out there 💪👌👍👏💯 ✌❤☘

[@milabaigar]

Absolutely agree with that , they are part fitters not Mecanics 👍

[@rayborg7378]

From every angle this ML is in very fine fettle .Good to see a 17 year old Mercedes look so well even from under neat.

[@sitdox]

Funny enough I just replaced speed sensors on 722 in the W219 and a couple days later I stumble upon this video Makes me wonder isn’t something fishy going on with the phones and stuff Anyway great video and nice garage setup guys Keep up the good work

[@PhilHutchins-n2h]

I have a ML 500 AMG 2007 has done 330.000kms still going strong.

[@RobertSkinner-t6v]

I really enjoy your videos, really explains your route to solving problems. I'm a jaguar man rather than Mercedes. Good business like yours is why I would never go back to main agents. Keep up the good work. 👍

[@ShiftingMetal]

I bet Nathan smelled great up to his armpits in gearbox oil! 😂 Amazing job Sam, thanks for sorting this, I look forward to driving back home next week!

[@xmaxbabilo]

you should forward this video to the dude asking £4000.

[@MikeMcCoy-o8n]

What price you selling this for Joe? I’m interested

[@RealTorquePodcast]

@@xmaxbabilo I think they just wanted to put a whole new box in!

[@steveclement9815]

Another excellent video Sam. You can't beat experience and you have plenty of it, well done.

[@stevie750iL]

Another fantastic video. I would'nt expect anything less now. Fantastic channel. And that coming from a BMW man. 😊

[@peterhess6039]

Great job once again - hopefully your mechanics appreciate the opportunity working for you

[@richtucker857]

Love your video!! Came here from Joe @ Shifting Metal. New subscriber of yours and W142 Brabus Vito owner

[@sprautos]

@@richtucker857 welcome. 🙏 loads of vids for you to catch up on

[@aq7705]

Looking forward to the annual SPR christmas bloopers and funny bits video.

[@Drew_Eden]

Nice video Sam. I really like those MLs. I bet the 420/450 CDI version is amazing to drive 😊

[@paulbennett274]

Yet another excellent video Sam with a sensible explanation as to why you are unable to help individual queries in relation to specific programming issues. Some people seem to believe that it's their right to demand a FOC waive of your Magic Wand! As I understand it, Mercedes Star and WIS systems are subject to a hefty annual subscription fee that you have to recover in your charging structure and that some fault diagnostics and rectification is only possible via these specialist systems and beyond the scope of third party diagnostic equipment. Sometimes you just have to pay the Piper!! Please keep up the good work, it's been a real revelation on maintaining these vehicles.

[@chrispenn715]

Great video thanks. Can't help thinking the gearbox design is a really bad idea; stick a load of electronics in a bath of hot oil and, to make it worse, throw in some anti theft coding nonsense...... Thanks Mercedes!

[@zzhughesd]

It's a German or Luxury Auto box thing. I don't get it either

[@richardshepherd6108]

Well others put a timing belt in a hot oil bath....

[@chrispenn715]

@richardshepherd6108 haha yes - even dumber.....

[@pellepp9628]

I.m sooooo happy driving and repairing my Volvos and Bmws from the 80s and 90s when I watch your videos😊

[@Kingdonnerkebab]

Superb video. I hope Joe now goes on to raffle it off, looks a beautiful example. Well done Sam knew it wouldn’t defeat you

[@keithexum7312]

Thanks!

[@keithexum7312]

You’re very welcome sir 👍🏻

[@james9958]

These videos which link up with other KZbin channels are great! Well done on fixing the car!

[@khsmith6242]

Top work as ever Sam, great video I watch them all. Regards from Aberdeen

[@sprautos]

Awesome! Thank you! 🙏

[@dave4ku]

£4000 quote is probably because the garage doesn’t want the job…. Mad quote customer goes somewhere else and the garage saves face… maybe who knows Great video guys

[@paul756uk2]

Great video, found that really interesting especially as I've got one of these. it's a 2010 and done 75k miles. I've had it 10 years, in great condition and love the car. Had the brake light issue but swapped them round and that sorted it out for some unknown reason. It had the gearbox oil changed at 40k and I'm going to get it done next year especially as I tow with it. The only problems I've had is a broken front spring and a couple of abs sensors which I replaced myself. Boy they do some weird things when they go wrong like putting on the brakes and making the car undriveable.

[@davekent2088]

your vids are great, the reason why mercedes stopped making the the brake light mod kits, is to force you to buy the complete light assmbly, more profit for merc

[@Impulse5596]

Its brilliant that you have some great staff working for you, which these days is a rarity. Continue sharing your immense knowledge and skill with them and your invested time will pay off in the future. Main dealerships cannot provide the service you provide, which thanks to you tube your knowledge is shared. The problem now I guess is being able to keep up with demand without physically and mentally killing yourself and your staff.

[@sprautos]

You said it right! It’s hard to keep up and keep everyone happy

[@stevenbarker9943]

No wonder your stacked out with work , good work ethics and great prices for your work, 👍👍👍

[@dangosypethau]

enjoyed the crystal clear explanations, well done

[@sprautos]

@@dangosypethau thank you 🙏

[@keithexum7312]

Great video once again! I got my wife a 2010 ML 350. I wanted to get a 2010 because I was too worried about balance shaft issues on the earlier models gasoline version. I’ve had to pull engines and do that job for other people not a simple One. So far the transmission has worked great but I do the transmission services on time along with all the other maintenance. It’s been a great vehicle it’s a rear wheel drive only. 136,000 miles and still running strong.

[@aceace5457]

joe would be pleased at what you done , A+

[@lynjames4306]

That has been a common problem with the Mercedes Gearbox it gave problems 12 year's ago and was a common issue ,Excellent Video well done 😊

[@bigfilsing]

Get Nathan some cheap tennis wrist sweat bands !! Stops the oil running down his arm :-) Put them half way up the forearm Works a treat. Loved the vid Cheers

[@JeffPower-dv3zl]

❤😂🎉😊

[@sprautos]

@@bigfilsing that’s a great idea 💡

[@scrivz69]

A brilliant video as always.

[@timmehlittleloud2251]

Good fix. Experience and knowledge is the key. Bet the dealer would want an awful lot more than 4 grand 😅 Some of these plates are easily cloned, some aren't. Just depends on the equipment. Interesting about the valve body compatibility as well.

[@ralphyimages]

Yet again, an excellent video!

[@sebastijano]

Man its perfeckt explaining like teacher I appreciate thats

[@Mercmad]

I've owned 2 ML's, And both had the speed sensor fault . I had to change the trans in the second one as one of the needle roller bearings in the gear train had come apart and this caused the speed sensor fault as needle rollers got stuck in the sensor gubbins. . But it was intermittent ,not noisy or constant. Changing the plate made no difference. It also had the leaky plug problem as trans fluid had leaked into the module .I bought one from a guy breaking one who had had a engine fire. 😑😑

[@adriancarter825]

This video hits home how complicated cars are today , great instalment though .

[@julesviolin]

Well done again Sam. I cannot believe Merc require new cover bolts for the gearbox. It's not like there's massive torque on them ⚠️

[@stephenrichardson2143]

Great video as always, i think i can remember stocking that part, "back in the day", i will do you some key rings "back in the day"

[@Czechbound]

*Top Tip :* If you tie a handkerchief around your forearm, or use a think wrist sweatband, you'll stop the oil before it hits your armpit 🙃

[@YaBoi_Nick]

It’s quite a good ML, this one.

[@michaelhynds8035]

Always very helpful and interesting content Sam, thank you for sharing.

[@GAOS2360]

Hi Sam - great video - Would love to see an ML buyers guide sometime on the channel. Thank you

[@PuddingPeep-fs1kw]

Sterling work from SPR as ever 👌

[@paulmoore6345]

Great work, and very informative

[@TiagoNevesNET]

ohhh, the infamous conductor plate... have same gearbox on one of mine, but has yet to fail. Only has 70k km though and I've changed the filter and trans fluid twice on it already, I am hoping that keeping it super clean will make it last longer. I would change the plate out for the newer version, except it needs to be programmed afterward, ie give merc stealerships some easy money!

[@georgepaterson4825]

nice job Joe will be pleased 👌👍

[@billdornan4379]

Saw the words Shifting Metal and I subscribed. Kindest regards, Sunshine Coast, BC 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@1995RangeRover]

Definitely enjoyed this vid my friend!

[@TheWidowmaker-xe4ji]

Finally, I got a T Shirt from the merchandise as always great content . Enjoy your videos, and I can't wait for the next episode ......also can't wait for you to take on new clients 🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞🤞

[@michaelbooth2176]

Standard job for any gearbox or mercedes specialist

[@Pearson0110]

I look forward to these videos, great information always learning new things. DAS is the absolute bane of my life! It’s painfully slow. Give me Xentry everyday of the week! 😅

[@andrewwheadon8094]

Good value guys. Honest.

[@senogob1489]

I have found out that every merc vehicle with auto from 1998 till 2014 has a same 7224 called transmission depending on cylinders, and when it starts sending it to sleep mode it means that semi conductor plate is burned and needs replacement I bought one for my 2004 model C 220cdi sedan and it works perfectly now. Total including labor was significant 450 AD

[@chalikuddin5700]

Like your videos great work on this ML

[@LowreyContractorsUK]

Excellent video

[@Tara-Waxingshop]

Greetings from Germany. Great video

[@frankirvine316]

Hi security Sam re the installation,your the man to save your customer valuable $$ Cheers Frank✅

[@PitSmok]

Another great episode, lots of info as always👍 many thanks. Just ordered the hoodie👊

[@sprautos]

Awesome, thank you!

[@garryc8744]

I cannot believe that the systems are so complex in such an old car and it would be great while your working on a particular model of mercedes to mention any other common issues as it would be a great benefit to anyone thinking of buying the same car.

[@georgedaville4662]

Hi Sam another great video which helps break down the mystique of the complexity of Mercedes engineering. Of course a diy fix is impossible since you need the Mercedes Computer system. Nonetheless great entertainment, I always look forward to your videos 👍😎

[@sprautos]

Thanks 👍

[@paulspindler5849]

A nice car, i had a 2007 420CDI, pulled like a train, had one issue with a rear control module that got wet and ended up with no back lights, also towards the end of owning it the gearbox would be really jolty when lifiting off in 2nd gear.

[@myz06rocks]

My model 2014 Ford F150 truck had an extremely similar issue. It was recalled by Ford because the moment the ECM failed to see data from the output speed sensor, it would force the transmission into first gear. The problem never occurred on my vehicle but the fault was fixed by simply re-flashing the transmission ECU by Ford. I presume the fault would still produce an indicator warning light.

[@markgrant6776]

Had the same thing happen on mine. Took conductor plate out and sent away to be repaired. Never had the issue again

[@iamyourfuture808]

Love these videos. But the take home is mercedes parts are an absolute nightmare.

[@olliebodman9771]

Is the w164 ml better than the w163? Especially when it comes to choosing a petrol or diesel, I had a w163 ml500 and loved it and had no problems and was looking to get the w164 ml500 Tia

[@EmilysDadd]

My same year R Class had the same problem with the stop'tail lamp. ff only MB had wired all the bulb holders as a separate unit like many other cars! I managed to make my lamp work by just not fully turning the holder to its final position.

[@davidorama6690]

It is a nice example of the ML.

[@allenfleckney5969]

Love your videos and work. Nice to hear a proper accent. Have you any videos on a CLS320. I’ve had one for a year now (2009). But can’t find any videos on faults etc. any help.

[@steveblack728]

Brilliant, I have 2 of these a 280 and 350 the 280 has this issue but the Dealer I bought it from is VERY reluctant to take it back, ( it broke down on way home) he says he fixed it but it’s still an issue, struggling to know what to do

[@TheGalifrey]

Maybe you can fix the Gearbox on Chris Slix's AMG GT?

[@tonyb1184]

I want a 4XL hoodie Sam is that going to be possible? Yes I'm a fat bloke that wants to represent for SPR. 😅 great job doing the ML for Joe he's a top bloke and so are you for fixing it. Well done 👏

[@xmaxbabilo]

i had to literally harass them to get a small size..so i would say yes it is. also i would love to get one in a 4xl aswell.

[@sprautos]

Send me an email and I will see if it’s possible. 😂🙌

[@tonyb1184]

@sprautos I email you Sam thanks very much

[@sprautos]

Small is in stock 🙌

[@xmaxbabilo]

@@sprautos sadly since the release of the last hoody i put on 8kgs :(. The large hoody actually fits nw. Ordered a large t shirt aswell :( i jinxed it

[@ThreeCoos]

More Mercedes mechanical mayhem, great video - thanks.

[@susansmith3568]

The dreaded 7 speed gearbox Made by Cadbury I had the same problem with a s class about 7 years ago Cost £750 then Absolutel junk

[@markjaxx3]

You are a legend :)

[@markaddy53]

great job as always should be well sorted now next video please

[@kevinbaird7277]

Modified brake light bulb holder available on eBay and Amazon for under £10 for a pair, they work well.

[@glyngregory5456]

Enjoy your videos very informative I don't own a mercedes but work on mercedes citaro buses and small four cylinder mercedes engines optare vehicles keep up the good content.

[@paulknight1332]

Great content as always Sam, I'm also an ML owner and rear light issues have been the bane of my life on and off (currently all is ok) during my ownership. I reworked my lamp fitting to cure my problems, there was some burnt residue on the contacts. The brake booster recall must be all but over by now, MB came to my house and checked mine the advise is not to drive the car under any circumstances until it is checked- I think the inspection is for some kind of corrosion and they cut off a rubber band to check underneath it and that is how it can be confirmed it has been checked. It would be fantastic if you could do a video on the use of a STAR / SDS system as many of us self maintainers have a Chinese clone in the garage...

[@TonyPamplin]

My wife’s R170 SLK had the same issue with her brake lamp bulb holders not making adequate contact with the circuit board, my fix was to add some solder to the two contacts on the bulb holders after I had cleaned everything up 👍problem fixed, so maybe an ML fix too

[@paulknight1332]

@@TonyPamplin Yes, that would work too. I advised these types of fix to a friend with an SLK recently too. All good so far...

[@paul756uk2]

Yeh I had the brake light issues on mine. It was intermittent. I swapped them over and it's been ok since. Not sure how that worked. I also had someone come a while ago now for the brake booster issue. Mercedes even sent me a £75 John Lewis voucher.

[@paulknight1332]

@@paul756uk2 Maybe disturbing it helped to resolve a connection issue? Yes, I also got a £75 JL Gift Card from MB :)

[@kerbsidemobilemechanic]

I take it you like the car mate? 😂 top work again 👏🏼👏🏼

[@paulstansfield8693]

Hi Sam, there is a major issue down here in the south, finding anyone who knows what they’re doing, or even willing to take on Mercedes of an age. Recently had to take my W221 to the main dealer to have the ABS/ESP Pump replaced. They made a complete monkey’s breakfast of it, if Mercedes cock it up, what chance have we got. I genuinely hope, the owners of the cars you look after appreciate and understand genuinely just how lucky they are.!!! Love the videos, the hoody I got, my son has nicked it, must admit it does look better on him 😂

[@sprautos]

O really is it that bad!? Not sure we’re your based but I can recommend GLM automotive MB specilaist, great bloke knows his stuff. And they are back in stock if you want another 😉

[@briankeegan8321]

Great video as always Sam … I’d still love a sleeveless SPR motors top .. 😂

[@JeffPower-dv3zl]

❤😂😊

[@sirjosephwhitworth9415]

Well done.

[@doru10922]

I have a question, I don't know if you will answer but here it is, in all this years have you ever heard about revs bouncing up when going from P to R to N to D, cold or warm? The car is parked and never had this rev movement before.

[@sprautos]

I havnt but 164 ml are common for throttle pedals sticking giving high idle. Mybe worth a punt

[@doru10922]

​@@sprautos if I replace the pedal is it plug and play?

[@laurencehastings7473]

Sounds like a classic case of not wanting to attempt the repair and giving a frightening estimate to deter the customer. I love those ML's but they're often prone to rust problems. Joe now has the problem of absorbing the repair cost. He can't just add it to the selling price or it won't sell, the car is now older, has one more owner and more miles on the clock. He will struggle to break even on this one.

[@maxclark4421]

Best thing you can have with a modern Mercedes is good breakdown insurance.

[@fw1421]

Sounds like serving cars in the UK is considerably less expensive than here in the US. I had a quote to do the shocks and struts on my 2011 Toyota RAV4 of $3200. Parts cost should be less than $5-600. The rest is labor. Even used cars are expensive since 2020.

[@scotspie501douglas7]

graet video love you knowledge on this product

[@markrushton1516]

Nice car for the wife Sam. Christmas surprise. Great work as usual

[@sprautos]

She would wreck it 😂

[@MK-oq5vr]

Great content fellas. Bit slow in its delivery and a little more energy and we’re laughing 😉

[@HA05GER]

To stop the oil running down your arm just put a hair scrunchie round each arm to absord the oil.

[@martinjackson565]

Can’t beat the five speed to change the plate no programming what so ever and no star Diagnostic your knackered most of the time anyway

[@1234minster]

Great video , maybe 4k was for an exchange gearbox??

[@sprautos]

Must of been

[@grenvillephillips6998]

I always love a happy ending!

[@sprautos]

😂

[@777kavon]

Please let us know when you make the hoodies available for shipping to US! I really want to support the channel.

[@lezivanerrol3697]

2009 S212 E350 wagon. 35,000 miles. 7 speed. Transmission would go into neutral intermittently. Forgot the codes - from memory speed sensor no communication. AU$3500 fix. New conductor plate. 1 day to replace the plate. 2 weeks to get the programming right - with Star. Lately an Australian ECU repair company will repair the conductor plates.- must cheaper.

[@treacadelic]

Fantastic job. If you want the best job done, go to the people who know.

[@GazC]

a 2007 om642 that cold starts on the button! What sorcery is this?