2007 ML 320 CDI - blue black smoke

[Thomas Coury]

I have had the ML for nearly 2 years and 45K. I have had it serviced every 5K milkes and it runs excellently. Every week or two as I'm driving along (the speed makes no difference) I look out the rear window and see a heavy, blue/black smoke coming from the exhaust. It is thick to the point that I feel sorry for the cars following me. They must think the ML is on its last legs.
My MB tech said thbis is normal behavior for the vehicle. With only 5K remaining on the warranty -I want to make sure he is correct.
Has this been an issue for anyone else?

 

[Xtractorfan]

Yes fairly normal for post 05/06 vehicles, these now purge the DPF.. Diesel Particulate Filter .. around every 600mls.. Tho it is crucial that the proper oil is used in the engine..
Still I would seek a second opinion on the amount of smoke emitted..

 

[Cole@MBS]

Both my R,classes were the same, Same 320 engine!!

 

[prm]

I've got an E280cdi sport 57 plate, presumably with a DPF, but my exhaust pipes are quite blackish & sooty

 

[Alex Crow]

it will not have a dpf then, they may block and fail, but will still keep the pipes clean.

dpf was not on all diesels of that year, but put in your vin here to see what spec you have. http://old.mbclub.ru/mb/vin/?lng=eng

 

[prm]

Thanks Alex, i tried the link but my car is too new apparently, i'm amazed i haven't got a DPF but highly delighted if its true

 

[prm]

Just checked my brothers CLS 32cdi and his pipes are spotless, so he obviously has a DPF and his is an 06 car, even he is amazed mine didn't have one, would i have sooty pipes because of anything failing ( unlikely i know at 20k, but it is a merc, ha )