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When you drive a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, having a dependable jerry can ready can prevent long waits and stressful situations if you run low on fuel. The right jerry can helps you carry emergency fuel safely, fit securely in your cargo area, and meet handling or material preferences.This guide highlights seven shortlisted options that meet practical requirements for ML-Class owners. We evaluated options for capacity, build material, spill control, and ease of use to narrow the field. Read on to see which jerry cans made the list and why they are suitable for on-vehicle emergency storage.
Looking for other parts? See all Mercedes-Benz ML-Class parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Wavian USA 20L NATO-Style Jerry Can with Spout |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Brunner Jerry Plus 10L Food-Grade Jerry Can with Tap |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Scepter 5-Gallon SmartControl Diesel Fuel Container |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | VP Racing 5.5 Gal. Square Motorsport Jug with 14" Deluxe Filler Hose |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | VP Racing 5.5-Gallon Square Motorsport Jug, 3-Pack with 14" Deluxe Hose |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | VP Racing 5.5 Gallon Camo Motorsports Jug with Hose |  |
1. Wavian USA 20L NATO-Style Jerry Can with Spout
| Capacity | 20 liters |
|---|---|
| Material | 0.9 mm cold-rolled steel |
| Compliance | EPA & CARB compliant |
| Nozzle | Bayonet quick-release with safety lock |
This Wavian USA 20L NATO-style jerry can is a heavy-duty metal fuel container built for demanding use. Constructed to NATO-style specifications from 0.9 mm cold-rolled steel with an anti-corrosive coating, it is intended for storing and transporting fuel without leaking or deforming during rough handling. Typical uses include long trips, emergency fuel carry for off-road excursions, and secure storage for spare fuel on a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class during extended travel. The can includes a bayonet quick-release nozzle with a safety lock and a self-venting pour spout to reduce spills while filling tanks or portable generators. Practical benefits are durability that withstands rough trail vibration, a secure seal that limits evaporation and spills, and compliance with EPA and CARB regulations for legal road use. Important limitations are the inclusion of plastic parts for the safety spout and nozzle clip that some users find flimsy, and occasional reports of missing or short pour attachments which can limit direct filling without an alternative spout or adapter. Users should also open the can slowly to avoid pressure-related gushes.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize rugged, reliable equipment and need a factory-quality spare fuel solution for long trips or off-road driving with a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a lightweight, plastic portable can for casual occasional use or those who need a narrow, long spout for repeated precise refueling of small tanks.
- Robust 0.9 mm cold-rolled steel construction for long-term durability under rough use
- Anti-corrosive coating suitable for outdoor storage and exposure
- Bayonet-style quick-release nozzle with safety lock for spill-resistant transfers
- EPA and CARB compliant for legal road use in North America
- Plastic components on the safety spout and storage clip can feel fragile compared with the steel body
- Some units may ship without a usable pour spout or with a shorter spout that limits accessibility
Verdict: If you want a rugged, road-legal steel jerry can to carry reliable spare fuel for your Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, this Wavian 20L is built for the job, but expect some plastic spout parts and occasional accessory fit issues.
2. Brunner Jerry Plus 10L Food-Grade Jerry Can with Tap
| Capacity | 10 Liters |
|---|---|
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
The Brunner Jerry Plus is a compact 10-liter food-grade jerry can made from high density polyethylene intended for storing and dispensing water or other potable liquids. It is typically used as an onboard spare water container for vehicle trips and campsite use, and the included tap makes pouring into small openings easier while reducing spills. The HDPE construction resists chemicals and UV exposure better than cheap plastics, so it holds up to regular outdoor use. Its practical shape fits in a vehicle cargo area or trunk and the screw cap plus tap provide controlled dispensing without needing extra funnels. Limitations are its modest 10 L capacity, which means you will need multiple cans or more frequent refilling for longer trips, and it lacks dedicated mounting hardware for secure in-vehicle installation on an ML-Class cargo area.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize a reliable, affordable onboard water container for short to medium trips in their ML-Class and value easy dispensing and durable materials.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning long overland trips who need large-volume fuel or water storage or those seeking a jerry can with vehicle mounting brackets and locking features.
- Food-grade HDPE construction suitable for potable water
- Integrated tap allows controlled pouring to reduce spills
- Compact 10 liter capacity fits easily in trunk or cargo area
- Durable material resists chemicals and outdoor exposure
- No included mounting system for secure attachment in a vehicle
- 10 L capacity may be small for extended trips without refills
Verdict: A durable, food-grade 10 L jerry can with a built-in tap that gives practical, spill-reducing water storage at a strong value for ML-Class owners needing a compact onboard container.
3. Scepter 5-Gallon SmartControl Diesel Fuel Container
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 Gallons |
| Material | Plastic |
| Model Number | FSCD552 |
The Scepter 5-gallon SmartControl diesel container is a practical, budget-focused fuel can for storing and dispensing diesel for routine vehicle top-ups and small equipment. It uses a SmartControl spout with an integrated air vent to enable faster fills and steady flow rates, and a push-button dispensing control with a lock to reduce accidental pours. The can incorporates a flame mitigation device and multi-layer construction to limit vapor leakage and improve safety during transport and storage. Typical use is carrying a single extra tank of diesel for on-road emergencies or filling small tanks around the garage; the rear handle and top grip make tipping and controlled pouring easier when full. Downsides are the plastic spout can retain a small amount of fuel that may drip when the cap is removed and the progressive spout mechanism can feel unfamiliar to those who prefer a simple fixed spout. For a low-cost, safety-minded container that is easy to use once learned, this is a solid choice for keeping an extra supply of diesel on hand.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners looking for an inexpensive, safe backup diesel container to carry occasional emergency fuel or top off a vehicle between stops.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a heavy-duty metal jerry can for long-term fuel storage, frequent large transfers, or who prefer a simple fixed spout over a progressive dispensing mechanism should consider alternatives.
- 5-gallon capacity suitable for emergency top-ups or short-range refueling
- SmartControl spout with integrated venting for faster, more controlled fills
- Built-in flame mitigation device and multi-layer construction for reduced vapor leakage
- Rear and top handles that improve balance and control when pouring
- Spout can trap a small amount of fuel and may drip when the end cap is removed
Verdict: A low-cost, safety-minded 5-gallon diesel container that delivers controlled pouring and fast fills for emergency top-ups.
4. VP Racing 5.5 Gal. Square Motorsport Jug with 14" Deluxe Filler Hose
| Capacity | 5.5 Gallons |
|---|---|
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Hose Length | 14 Inches |
This VP Racing 5.5 gallon square jug is built as a heavy-duty utility container for non-fuel liquids and dry materials. It is typically used in garages or on outdoor jobs for storing and pouring automotive fluids that are recyclable, non-potable water, animal feed, or road salt. Notable features include thick high-density polyethylene construction with reinforced corners, a super-wide bottom handgrip for stable lifting, an ergonomic top handle with venting for easier pouring, and a 14 inch deluxe filler hose that reduces spills and improves reach when dispensing. In practice the rigid square shape stacks neatly and the reinforced corners resist cracking under rough use, while the close-trimmed cap and neck aim to give a tighter seal for transport. Important limitations are that the manufacturer specifies this jug is not for fuel or kerosene, and its fittings and materials are optimized for general-purpose liquids rather than certified fuel storage or vehicle-mounted long-term fuel carry for a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who prioritizes a rugged, leak-resistant utility container for workshop, farm, or roadside fluid handling and wants a durable, easy-to-pour jug for regular maintenance tasks.
Less Ideal for: Not appropriate for drivers who need a certified fuel can for carrying gasoline in a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class or for those who require a compact, purpose-made fuel container for long-term vehicle transport.
- Durable HDPE construction with reinforced corners resists cracking under heavy use
- Square profile stacks and stores efficiently in a trunk or garage
- Super-wide bottom handgrip and ergonomic top handle make lifting and controlled pouring easier
- 14 inch deluxe filler hose and close-trimmed cap reduce spills and improve dispensing control
- Not rated or recommended for storing fuel or kerosene which limits use for emergency fuel carry
- Relatively large and may be bulky to store inside a small cargo area
Verdict: A tough, easy-to-handle 5.5 gallon utility jug built for reliable non-fuel storage and spill-reduced dispensing.
5. VP Racing 5.5-Gallon Square Motorsport Jug, 3-Pack with 14" Deluxe Hose
| Brand | VP Racing |
|---|---|
| Model | 3522-CA |
| Capacity per jug | 5.5 gallons |
| Package quantity | 3 Pack |
| Manufacturer | Plastic Product Formers |
The VP Racing 5.5-gallon square motorsport jug set is a robust multipurpose container intended for storing and dispensing non-fuel liquids and outdoor materials. In practice it is used in garages, race pits, farms, and for emergency storage where a durable, easy-to-handle container matters. Notable features include reinforced corners and 30 percent thicker walls compared with conventional jugs, an extra-wide bottom grip for stable carrying, and a 14 inch deluxe hose for controlled pouring. Those design choices make lifting and dispensing heavy loads easier and reduce the chance of cracking during rough use. The jugs are presented as non-fuel containers so they are best for oil, water, feed, salt, or absorbents rather than regular gasoline; some buyers report using them for fuel despite the label. The 3-pack is convenient for keeping multiple fluid types separated or staging spares, but the package is large and heavier to store than single cans and may be overkill if you only need occasional small-volume carrying.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want durable, easy-to-handle containers for frequent dispensing, storage rotation, or staging multiple fluids in a garage, workshop, or track environment.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need certified fuel cans for storing gasoline or those with very limited storage space should consider purpose-built single fuel jugs or smaller containers instead.
- Reinforced high-stress areas and thicker walls improve durability and resistance to cracking.
- Extra-wide bottom grip makes lifting and pouring heavy jugs easier and more stable.
- Includes 14 inch deluxe hose for controlled dispensing and reduced spills.
- Sold as a 3-pack so you can store multiple fluids or keep spare containers on hand.
- Labeled for non-fuel use which limits safe use with regular gasoline or kerosene.
- Large size and three-pack configuration require substantial storage space and add weight when transporting.
Verdict: A heavy-duty, easy-to-handle 3-pack of 5.5-gallon jugs built for frequent dispensing and tough use.
6. VP Racing 5.5 Gallon Camo Motorsports Jug with Hose
| Capacity | 5.5 Gallons |
|---|---|
| Hose Length | 14 Inches |
| Material | High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
The VP Racing 5.5 gallon motorsports jug is a rugged HDPE container intended for transporting and dispensing non-fuel liquids around the garage or during outdoor work. It is built with reinforced corners and thicker walls to resist cracking and deformation, and it includes a 14 inch hose for controlled pouring. Typical uses include carrying recyclable automotive fluids, non-potable water, animal feed, and absorbents when working on or servicing a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class away from a shop. The wide bottom grip and ergonomic top handle make lifting and steady pouring easier, while the denser plastic in high-stress areas improves longevity in rough conditions. The product is explicitly labeled not for use with fuel, so it is not suitable as a replacement gas can for filling the ML-Class tank. A practical limitation is the single 5.5 gallon capacity which may be bulky when working in tight spaces around the vehicle and cannot substitute for certified fuel transfer equipment for gasoline-related tasks.
Best for: Practical, risk-averse owners focused on dependable, factory-quality storage solutions for non-fuel fluids and workshop tasks who prioritize durability and predictable performance.
Less Ideal for: People seeking a certified fuel transfer container for refilling a Mercedes-Benz ML-Class or those who need smaller, more compact containers for confined service areas should look elsewhere.
- Durable HDPE construction with reinforced corners for crack resistance
- Includes 14 inch dispensing hose for controlled pouring
- Ergonomic handle design and wide bottom grip improve handling during lifting and pouring
- Higher material thickness than standard utility jugs for better wear resistance
- Not approved for use with gasoline or kerosene so cannot be used as a fuel can
- Single-size 5.5 gallon capacity may be larger than some tasks require
Verdict: A tough, well-built 5.5 gallon jug for safe storage and dispensing of non-fuel fluids when servicing your ML-Class.
Choosing the Right Mercedes-Benz ML-Class Jerry Can: Key Factors to Consider
Capacity and Form Factor
Capacity determines how much extra range you gain and directly affects where the can can be stored in the ML-Class. A larger can increases range but may be harder to stow securely and adds weight that shifts the vehicle balance when cornering or braking.
Form factor matters for fitting into the cargo area, under seats, or in a roof box. Slim, rectangular designs often tuck against interior walls better than round containers. Consider how many liters you want versus where you will mount or store the can on a routine basis.
Material and Durability
Materials affect longevity, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with gasoline or diesel. Metal cans are often more impact-resistant but can corrode over time if not treated or kept dry. Plastic fuel cans resist corrosion and can be lighter, but they vary in UV resistance and may become brittle in extreme temperatures.
Check construction quality, welds or seams, and whether materials are rated for the fuel type you intend to carry. Durability influences how well the can holds up to repeated use, bumps during transport, and long-term exposure to fuel vapors.
Safety Features and Certifications
Safety features reduce the risk of leaks, vapor release, and accidental spills during transport and refueling. Look for secure caps with seals, built-in vents or pressure-release mechanisms, and flame-arresting screens where applicable. Certification or compliance with relevant fuel-storage standards adds confidence in safe design and testing.
A well-designed spout and positive-lock cap prevent fuel from escaping in a crash or rollover. Safety features are especially important when carrying fuel inside or on a vehicle rather than in a remote container.
Pouring Control and Usability
How easily you can pour fuel affects safety and convenience. Integrated spouts, flexible pour tubes, or controlled-flow nozzles reduce spills and make refueling quicker. Some designs include automatic venting which eases flow and prevents glugging that causes splashes.
Ergonomic handles and balanced grip points make carrying and pouring manageable when the can is full. Consider whether the can design allows one-person pouring or requires a second person to stabilize the vehicle or container.
Mounting and Storage Compatibility
Think about how the can will be secured in your ML-Class when driving. Some cans are shaped to accept straps or brackets, while others are free-standing and require custom mounts. Stability is key to prevent movement that could stress closures or cause damage.
Measure likely storage locations and consider tie-down points, interior dimensions, and whether you need a locking bracket to keep the can from shifting during transport. A can that sits flush against a mounting surface will be more secure.
Fuel Type Compatibility and Seal Integrity
Ensure the can is suitable for the fuel you plan to carry. Some materials or seal types are better for gasoline, others for diesel or mixed-use. Seal integrity affects vapor containment and prevents slow leaks that can cause odor or safety risks.
Inspect cap threads, gasket materials, and any internal liners to confirm compatibility. Long-term storage of fuel requires a can that resists degradation from ethanol blends and other modern fuel formulations.
How We Chose the Best Mercedes-Benz ML-Class Jerry Can
We focused on durability, capacity, safety features, ease of carrying, and compatibility with the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class cargo area and mounting points. Durability covered materials and construction quality to ensure long-term leak resistance and resistance to dents or deformation. Capacity and form factor were assessed to ensure the can fits typical ML-Class storage spaces while providing useful range extension. Safety features included venting, flame mitigation, secure caps, and pour spouts to reduce spills during transfer.We also weighed ease of use elements such as integrated handles, pour control, and refill access. Corrosion resistance and suitability for gasoline or diesel were considered depending on material and seal design. We excluded items that lacked clear safety markings or that did not offer secure closures suitable for vehicle transport. The final list emphasizes practical fitment, safe handling, and reliable materials rather than novelty features.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Is it safe to store a jerry can in the ML-Class cargo area?
Storing a jerry can in the cargo area can be safe if the container is designed for vehicle transport and has secure closures and venting. Place the can upright, secure it with straps or a bracket, and avoid storing loose containers that can shift. Check local regulations and avoid storing fuel in the passenger compartment.
Should I choose metal or plastic for my fuel can?
Metal cans tend to be more impact-resistant while plastic cans resist corrosion and are lighter. The best choice depends on how you plan to use the can, exposure to the elements, and the type of fuel. Both types can be safe when they are well constructed and rated for the intended fuel.
How do I prevent fuel spills when pouring from a jerry can?
Use a can with a purpose-built pour spout or controlled-flow nozzle and ensure the vent is open so fuel flows smoothly. Position the vehicle and can securely, pour slowly, and use a funnel if needed for tight filler necks. Practice at home to get familiar with the can's flow characteristics before relying on it in an emergency.
Can I store fuel long term in a jerry can?
Fuel can be stored short- to medium-term in a proper jerry can, but stability depends on fuel formulation and storage conditions. Use fresh fuel, keep the can tightly sealed, and store it in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight. For long-term storage, follow fuel-stability guidance and rotate stored fuel periodically.
Do jerry cans need special mounting hardware for the ML-Class?
Mounting hardware is helpful but not always required. If you plan to carry a can regularly, a purpose-built bracket or strap points keep it secure and reduce load shift. Choose hardware that matches the can's shape and your vehicle's tie-down locations to prevent movement during driving.
Conclusion
Prioritize safe handling, a form factor that fits your Mercedes-Benz ML-Class storage spaces, and the right capacity for the range you need. Tradeoffs usually involve capacity versus stowability and metal versus plastic for durability and weight.Focus on secure closures, certified safety features, and ease of pouring when choosing a jerry can. With those priorities in mind, you can select an option that balances convenience and safety for emergency fuel carriage.
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