2008 Mercedes-Benz GL550
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL550 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful V8 engine, and comfortable ride. The GL-Class offered three engine options: a 3.0L V6 diesel (GL320 CDI), a 4.6L V8 (GL450), and the 5.5L V8 in the GL550. The GL550’s engine produces 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise its luxurious features, smooth ride, and ample cargo space. Common complaints revolve around its high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and fuel consumption.
Engine
5.5L V8 (M273)
- Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common as the valve cover gaskets age and harden, leading to oil dripping onto exhaust components, producing a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks from Oil Filter Housing
- Description/Symptoms: The oil filter housing gasket can degrade over time, causing oil leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid (Cam Magnet) Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the camshaft adjuster solenoids (cam magnets) are also common and can lead to oil intrusion into the engine wiring harness.
- Solution: Replace the leaking cam magnets and clean the affected wiring harness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per solenoid)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-Tronic (722.9)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially during low-speed acceleration. Can also lead to error codes related to torque converter lock-up clutch.
- Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the torque converter. In some cases, a software update may help.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in a particular gear.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Airmatic Suspension Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or issues with the valve block. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially overnight, or the compressor running constantly.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor; $300-$800+ for the valve block
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Compressor Relay Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor relay can fail, causing the compressor to run continuously and burn out.
- Solution: Replacing the relay. It’s recommended to replace the compressor along with the relay if the compressor has been running excessively.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50 for the relay; If replacing the compressor $500-$1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Rapid battery drain, often due to a module not shutting down correctly or a parasitic draw.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve updating software or replacing a faulty module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Malfunctioning Sensors
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and wheel speed sensors, can fail, leading to engine performance issues, ABS/ESP warnings, or other system malfunctions.
- Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, plus diagnostic time.
- Recalls: None Found
- COMAND System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, display failures, or issues with navigation, audio, or Bluetooth connectivity.
- Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, particularly in areas with harsh winter conditions, leading to corrosion of body panels, especially around the wheel wells, door sills, and undercarriage.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted panels, rust removal, and preventative treatments.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)
- Recalls: None Found
- Tail Light and Headlight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Tail light bulb failure and headlight lens clouding or cracking are common.
- Solution: Bulb replacement, lens cleaning or replacement of the headlight assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ for bulbs; $200 - $1,000+ for headlight assembly replacement
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close properly, or unusual noises during operation.
- Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof mechanism, repair or replacement of the motor or linkage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Seat Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust properly or getting stuck.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty switches, motors, or repair of damaged wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary: The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL550, while a luxurious and capable SUV, is prone to several issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the air suspension, transmission, and engine oil leaks, which can lead to high repair costs. Electrical issues and interior malfunctions are also common. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle. The severity and cost of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing several thousand dollars. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles are highly recommended.