2002 Mercedes-Benz G500

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz G500 is a legendary SUV known for its off-road prowess, luxurious interior, and distinctive boxy styling. In 2002, the G500 was only available with one engine option, the 5.0L M113 V8, producing 292 horsepower and 336 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission option was a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6). Owners often appreciate the G500’s ruggedness, iconic design, and surprisingly comfortable ride, while common complaints revolve around fuel economy, maintenance costs, and occasional electrical gremlins.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, low oil level, and burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and possible check engine light with corresponding MAF sensor codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

722.6 5-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission, while generally reliable, can experience slipping between gears or harsh shifting, especially with age and mileage.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change might alleviate minor issues. More severe cases might require valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 for fluid/filter, $800-$1500 for valve body, $3000+ for rebuild.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate within the transmission can fail, leading to erratic shifting, limp mode, and stored fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The shock absorbers, especially the original ones, can wear out or leak, resulting in a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+ depending on brand and if self-leveling shocks are equipped.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering damper reduces vibrations felt through the steering wheel. When it fails, you will feel vibrations and looseness in the steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Steering Damper
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display can fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuse Box Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion of the fuse box can cause electrical issues throughout the vehicle.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the fuse box.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, particularly around the door hinges, window frames, and lower body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body work, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust properly or at all.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz G500, while a capable and desirable vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems (especially with the conductor plate), suspension wear, electrical gremlins, and rust are the most commonly reported problems. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major repairs like engine or transmission work or extensive rust repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchase decision, including a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.