2008 Mercedes-Benz GL500

Introduction to the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL500

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL500 is a luxurious and capable SUV. It comes with a standard 5.0L V8 engine that produces 388 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GL500 comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GL500 has a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a powerful engine. However, owners have reported some issues with the vehicle.

Engine

• 5.0L V8
  • Camshaft Adjuster Failure: The camshaft adjusters can fail, causing the engine to run improperly.
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may make a ticking noise, lose power, or run rough.
    • Solution: Replace the camshaft adjusters.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Leak: The intake manifold can develop a leak, causing the engine to run lean.
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may idle rough, hesitate when accelerating, or have decreased fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 7-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slippage: The transmission may slip or shudder while shifting.
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may hesitate or jerk when shifting, or it may not shift properly at all.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure: The air suspension system can fail, causing the vehicle to ride low or rough. * Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag in one corner, or it may ride rough and bouncy. * Solution: Replace the air suspension components. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely due to a faulty alternator or other electrical components. * Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may have difficulty starting, or the battery may go dead after sitting for a period of time. * Solution: Replace the faulty electrical components. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ * Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Short: The vehicle may experience electrical shorts, causing various electrical components to malfunction. * Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may have flickering lights, malfunctioning gauges, or other electrical problems. * Solution: Locate and repair the electrical short. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks: The sunroof may leak water into the vehicle’s interior. * Description/Symptoms: Water may drip from the sunroof or headliner when it rains. * Solution: Replace the sunroof seal or drain tubes. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure: The navigation system may malfunction or become unresponsive. * Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, give incorrect directions, or display a black screen. * Solution: Update the navigation software or replace the navigation system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ * Recalls: None Found
• Rear Seat Entertainment System Failure: The rear seat entertainment system may malfunction or become unresponsive. * Description/Symptoms: The system may not turn on, play DVDs, or respond to inputs. * Solution: Replace the rear seat entertainment system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL500 is a luxurious and capable SUV, but it has been known to experience some issues, including camshaft adjuster failure, intake manifold leaks, transmission slippage, air suspension failure, battery drain, electrical shorts, sunroof leaks, navigation system failure, and rear seat entertainment system failure. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more serious and costly. Owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a GL500.