Hi,
I have noticed that I'm developing a lot of rust on the undercarriage despite frequent washings during the winter...
I've had my ML since 99 and have accumulated 70K miles so far. Is this kind of rust normal, or should I approach dealer about warrantying some of the rusting components. Primary areas of rust are around sway bars, hubs, etc...

The rust warranty period is the same as the new car warranty. 4 yr/50k miles.
Mine (98 ML) also has this rusty look at the undercarriage. I doubt the dealer would do anything about it. It's too bad MB didn't do the undercoating during the early years. I checked out the 2004 ML and it has a nicely done undercoating.

Any suggestions on how to STOP the rusting? What's effective that doesn't attract more dirt and salt?

Use POR 15. Do an internet seach you can read all about it, it will definately do the job.

Hi Ron,
Thanks for the great reply.
Just one question though - Is this something I can spray liberally in the undercarriage of the ML, or do I have to be very careful not to spray joints and bushings, etc...

What's been your experience?

Sorry I don't have any decent experience with any kind or undercoating that you can apply or have someone else apply to the bottom of your vehicle. I don't like working on cars with dirty engine bays or greasy waxy undercoatings.

I have a 97 Porsche that came from the factory with a petroleum based preservative called Cosmoline applied to the bottom including the engine and gearbox. It's a waxy substance and it's not attractive. I've removed quite a bit of it and doing so is a pain. Since the Cosmoline was applied to the joints, bushings, the whole suspension and all I'm confident it doesn't harm anything, so I guess you could have that done.

Any other ideas on how to prevent the ongoing rust issues ?
here's a link... any feedback on this if someone tried this already ? should I give it a shot ?
I've asked a couple of autobody shops and no one seems to be interested enough to take care of the rusting underpanel on my truck....
http://www.ruststoponline.com/testimonials.html

roadsession, how about using paint? Ron, most, if not all cars And trucks which are shipped by boat are sprayed with cosmoline to protect them from the salt air. I know that commercial trucks from Japan are covered with the stuff.

Hi,
I have noticed that I'm developing a lot of rust on the undercarriage despite frequent washings during the winter...
I've had my ML since 99 and have accumulated 70K miles so far. Is this kind of rust normal, or should I approach dealer about warrantying some of the rusting components. Primary areas of rust are around sway bars, hubs, etc...
How did you address this issue? pictures please.