How much rust under an ML should there be?

[smile of life]

I'm looking at buying an ML320, 6 years old. When I had a look underneith there was a general layer of light rust over most metalwork. Is this normal?

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

Sounds like you have found one that has actually been used 'off road'. Probably best avoided!

 

[jberks]

I'd have thought most 6 year old cars would have light traces on exposed metal such as suspension arms, heat shields, bolt heads and the like. The chassis should be clean though. If in doubt, get it on a ramp.

 

[betacam]

some 99 model ml 320s were not undersealed correctly in the factory
i know because i have one, i had a big fight with mb and eventually they
re sealed it for me they had it for 2 weeks i discovered there was a recall
in the us but not in the u.k my car still a light coating of rust which is normal
but check it is light!

 

[Ian Brown]

I'm looking at buying an ML320, 6 years old. When I had a look underneith there was a general layer of light rust over most metalwork. Is this normal?

I would walk away from that one and look for one that has been undersealed and has no rust. Rust can only get worse through time

 

[smile of life]

Well, I bought ML from the millionaire lady seller who I can't imagine ever took it out of Chelsea! So no off-roading there. I'll get my mechanic to check it next service. At worst I can always sell it! But for the time being I'm happy to watch the petrol guage go down as I drive it! Thanks for responses everyone.