2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. The GL450 came standard with a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 335 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). While praised for its smooth ride and luxurious features, some owners have reported issues over time. Common complaints include expensive repairs, electrical problems, and suspension issues related to the air suspension system. A less powerful GL320 CDI was available with a diesel engine, as well as the GL550.

Engine

4.7L M273 V8

• Balance Shaft Sprocket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: This is a common issue on earlier M273 engines. The balance shaft sprocket wears prematurely. Symptoms include a check engine light (often P0016 or similar codes), rough running, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the balance shaft and potentially the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Flap Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold has flaps controlled by a motor to optimize airflow. The motor or flaps can fail, leading to a check engine light (often related to intake manifold performance or lean running conditions) and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold flap motor or the entire intake manifold assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Various oil leaks can occur, most commonly from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Diesel Engine

No Issues Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7G-TRONIC transmission is known to have valve body issues, leading to harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in gear (limp mode).
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can cause shuddering, slipping, or stalling, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The GL450 is equipped with an Airmatic air suspension system that can be prone to leaks and failures. Symptoms include the vehicle sagging, uneven ride height, or the air compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, valve block, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Compressor Relay Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Often the air compressor relay fails causing the compressor to burn out, which will result in the air suspension failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the air compressor relay AND the air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The EIS can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting or unlocking the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replacing the EIS and potentially reprogramming it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM controls various electrical functions and can fail, leading to issues with lights, wipers, or other electronic systems.
  • Solution: Replacing and programming the faulty SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive battery drain, often due to a faulty module or component that doesn’t shut down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source of the drain, $100 - $1,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop around the wheel wells, door seams, and undercarriage, especially in areas with harsh winters.
  • Solution: Repairing and repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per area depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can malfunction, failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The older navigation and infotainment systems can become outdated or malfunction, leading to issues with maps, audio, or display.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450 offers a luxurious and comfortable driving experience, but it is prone to several common issues. The air suspension, electrical system, and engine components (particularly the balance shaft sprocket) are known trouble spots. These repairs can be costly, making pre-purchase inspections and diligent maintenance crucial. The severity of the issues range from minor electrical glitches to major engine and transmission repairs, potentially costing thousands of dollars to address.