2011 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG is a high-performance SUV known for its ruggedness, luxurious interior, and distinctive boxy design. The G55 AMG boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter supercharged V8 engine producing 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It was available only with a 5-speed automatic transmission. People love the G55 AMG for its unique styling, impressive off-road capabilities, and powerful engine. Downsides include its poor fuel economy, high price, and somewhat outdated technology.

Engine

5.5L Supercharged V8

• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intercooler pump, responsible for cooling the air entering the engine, can fail. This results in reduced engine performance, especially in hot weather, and can trigger a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The supercharger clutch, responsible for engaging the supercharger, can fail. This will result in a severe drop in power and can make a high-pitched sound.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets. Symptoms include a burning oil smell, visible oil leaks around the valve covers, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or not shifting at all. The transmission may go into limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, causing the vehicle to sag or sit unevenly. The “Visit Workshop” message may appear on the dashboard. The compressor may also be unusually loud before failing completely.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the air suspension struts can cause the vehicle to sag overnight or sit unevenly. A hissing sound may be heard near the affected strut.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air suspension strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+ (per strut)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Heater Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater blower motor may only work on certain speeds (e.g., only high) or may not work at all.
  • Solution: Replace the heater blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which controls navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions, can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: The solution can range from software updates to replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Around Body Seams and Hinges)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation around body seams, door hinges, and other areas prone to moisture accumulation.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof can malfunction, fail to open/close, or leak.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of sunroof mechanism, replacement of seals, or motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG, while desirable, is prone to some significant issues that can be costly to repair. Engine issues like intercooler pump and supercharger clutch failures, along with transmission conductor plate issues, represent potentially expensive repairs. The air suspension system is also a common source of problems. Owners should be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs associated with this vehicle. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major component failures that can render the vehicle undriveable.