Second Hand Mercedes-Benz ML Towbar

The ML ran across three distinct generations: the W163 (1997–2003), the W164 (2005–2011), and the W166 (2011–2019), and towbars do not interchange between these generations as the rear bodywork, chassis mounting points, and electrical layouts differ completely between them. Within a generation, towbars are generally specific to that platform, so always tell the breaker which generation yours is — easiest done by quoting your registration. If your vehicle sits right on the 2011 boundary between W164 and W166, confirm with the breaker against your registration exactly which platform you have before ordering.

No — the W164 (2005–2011) and W166 (2011–2019) are entirely different platforms with different rear underbody structures, so a towbar from one will not bolt onto the other. Always source a towbar from the matching generation, and quote your registration to the breaker so they can pull the correct part.

No — engine choice and trim level (whether you have an SE, Sport, AMG Line, or any other grade) make no difference to towbar fitment on the ML, as the tow point mounting and rear structure are the same across the range within a given generation. What matters is generation and model year, so focus on those when asking breakers for a quote.

Yes, the physical mounting points for the towbar are part of the chassis structure on the ML regardless of whether the original vehicle left the factory with one fitted, so a genuine used towbar should bolt up correctly. However, you will also need the wiring loom and any control modules that came with the donor towbar, particularly if your ML has a trailer stability programme, so ask the breaker whether these are included. Confirm all parts against your registration before buying.

The W166 received a facelift in 2015, and while the core chassis and tow point structure are unlikely to have changed, whether any pressing or mounting differences exist between pre- and post-facelift cars is something you should confirm with the breaker against your registration rather than assume. Name the facelift year (2015) and your exact model year when getting quotes so the breaker can check from their stock.

The Mercedes ML is a popular SUV in the UK and was sold in significant numbers across all three generations, so used towbars do come up at breakers fairly regularly. When getting quotes through Findapart, give your registration and confirm the generation (W163, W164, or W166) with the breaker, and ask whether the wiring harness and any associated modules are included, as fitting a towbar without the correct electrics can cause issues with modern vehicles. Never assume a towbar from a similar-era Mercedes model will cross over, as they are model-specific.