2010 Mercedes-Benz GL550

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL550 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. The GL550 comes standard with a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. It is paired exclusively with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Some owners appreciate its luxurious features, solid build quality, and impressive towing capacity. Common dislikes include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and relatively poor fuel economy. Other engine options available for the GL-Class include a 3.0L V6 diesel and a 4.6L V8.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure (Camshaft Position Sensor Issues)
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and the check engine light will illuminate. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft position, such as P0016 or P0017, are often present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid (also known as a camshaft position sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets/Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil level. Common leak points include the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks and potential engine overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Transmission slipping or not engaging properly.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in a particular gear.
  • Solution: Replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may go into “limp mode,” limiting the vehicle’s speed. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the transmission may be stored.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate inside the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic System)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag on one or more corners, the ride height may be uneven, or the suspension may not adjust properly. The air compressor may run constantly or fail altogether. Diagnostic messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors. Address any air leaks in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is parked for extended periods. Difficult starting or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the parasitic draw causing the battery drain. Common culprits include faulty door modules, seat control modules, or the COMAND system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (infotainment) may freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or display error messages. Navigation, audio, or other features may not function properly.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In more severe cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (Software Update), $500 - $2000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close, or it may operate intermittently. The motor, struts, or latch mechanism may be faulty.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty components, such as the liftgate motor, struts, or latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, or it may get stuck. The motor, tracks, or linkage may be damaged or worn.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty components, such as the sunroof motor, tracks, or linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL550 presents a range of potential issues, primarily related to the engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The most concerning and costly problems often involve the air suspension, transmission, and electrical system malfunctions. Engine oil leaks are also common. Repair costs can be significant due to the complex nature of the vehicle and the price of replacement parts. While the GL550 offers a luxurious and comfortable driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in maintenance and repair costs.