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A used gear stick that fits one vehicle won't always fit another - even within the same model range. These questions help breakers match stock to your exact vehicle before they quote:
The vast majority of ML models sold in the UK across all three generations (W163 1998–2005, W164 2005–2011, W166 2011–2019) were fitted with automatic gearboxes, which means they use a selector lever rather than a conventional manual gear stick with a clutch pedal. A small number of W163 and early W164 models were offered with a manual gearbox in certain markets, but manual MLs are extremely rare in the UK. If you are looking for an automatic selector or gear selector lever, that is the correct part to search for on the ML.
The W164 (2005–2011) and W166 (2011–2019) are entirely different generations with different transmission systems, centre console layouts, and selector mechanisms, so these parts are not a straightforward swap. Even within each generation there were mid-production changes, so you should always confirm compatibility against your registration with the breaker before buying. Supplying your engine code — found on your V5 or via a VIN check — will help the breaker identify the correct selector unit quickly.
The W164 received a facelift in 2008, and there can be differences in interior components including the centre console and selector assembly between pre- and post-facelift cars. Whether a pre-2008 selector crosses over to a post-2008 car is something you should confirm with the breaker against your exact registration, as ancillary and mounting details can change mid-production. Your engine code is the most useful detail to give the breaker alongside your registration number.
Trim level does not affect the mechanical fitment of the gear selector on the ML — the selector is determined by the transmission type and engine code, not by whether the car is SE, Sport, or AMG Line. However, there can be cosmetic differences between trims, such as different finishes on the selector surround or gear knob material, so the part from a different trim may look slightly different even if it fits mechanically. If appearance matters to you, mention your trim to the breaker so they can try to match it.
The single most useful detail is your engine code, which is listed on your V5 logbook or can be found via a VIN check — this tells the breaker exactly which transmission your car was built with and narrows down the correct selector unit. You should also provide your registration number, model year, and generation (W163, W164, or W166). Mentioning your fuel type (petrol or diesel) and whether the car is a standard auto or has a specific gearbox variant (for example a seven-speed 7G-Tronic) will help the breaker source the right part more quickly.
The W163 (1998–2005) used earlier transmission and selector assemblies that are different from those fitted to the later W164 and W166 generations, so parts from newer MLs will not simply swap across. Within the W163 itself there were also running changes during production, so confirm the exact part with the breaker using your registration and engine code. Because genuine manual W163 MLs are uncommon in the UK, most buyers will be looking for an automatic selector lever, so make sure you specify this when contacting a breaker.