The front-axle swivel balls are a recognized inspection and wear point, prone to rust, pitting, and grease leaks, with repairs likened to the costly Land Rover equivalent. A related recurring quirk is front-end vibration at certain speeds, which some mechanics wrongly try to cure with an added steering damper.
Front axle swivel balls and steering vibration
Mercedes-Benz Gelandewagen (W460) · buying