2003 Mercedes-Benz G500

Introduction: The 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 is a luxury SUV that offers a combination of off-road capability and on-road comfort. It comes equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 292 horsepower and 336 lb-ft of torque. The G500 is available with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. People who own the G500 often enjoy its rugged design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, the vehicle is also known for some common issues.

Engine

5.0-liter V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft position sensor failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, decreased performance
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque converter shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration while shifting gears, particularly under acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from front suspension, rough ride, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replace front suspension struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead prematurely
  • Solution: Inspect electrical system for parasitic draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture inside headlight assembly
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof drain tube clogs:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into cabin through sunroof
  • Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drain tubes
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard creaks and rattles:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from dashboard
  • Solution: Tighten or replace dashboard components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 is a capable SUV but is known for some common issues. The most severe and costly problems include engine intake manifold gasket failure, transmission torque converter shudder, and transmission slipping. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or minimize these issues.