2005 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG is a high-performance SUV known for its ruggedness, luxurious interior, and distinctive boxy styling. It was only offered with one engine, a supercharged 5.4L V8 producing 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically appreciate the G55 AMG’s unique character, off-road capabilities, and powerful engine. Common complaints often revolve around its high fuel consumption, stiff ride, and relatively outdated technology compared to more modern SUVs.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8

• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whining noise from the supercharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, shuddering at low speeds, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, transmission not shifting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one side or all corners, suspension not raising or lowering, “Visit Workshop” message.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one side or all corners, hissing sound from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Fuse Box Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other accessories.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the corroded fuse box.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing or fading on the instrument cluster display.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Around Door Hinges and Tailgate)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the body panels, bubbling paint.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG, while desirable, can be prone to several issues. The most concerning are related to the supercharged engine, transmission, and air suspension, all of which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins and rust are also common headaches. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs.