2011 Mercedes-Benz GL500

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL500 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. For the 2011 model year, the GL-Class also came in GL350 BlueTEC diesel, GL450 with a 4.6L V8, and GL550 with a 5.5L V8. The GL500 features a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally praise its smooth ride, luxurious features, and ample space. However, some common complaints include high maintenance costs, electrical issues, and occasional problems with the air suspension. The GL500 specifically was only sold in certain markets outside of the USA.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning camshaft adjuster solenoids can cause rough idling, poor engine performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Check Engine Light Due to Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: The oxygen sensors can fail, triggering the check engine light and potentially affecting fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7G-Tronic transmission is known for valve body issues. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and erratic gear changes.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failures can cause shuddering, slipping, and complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3500+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks and compressor failures. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, the suspension not adjusting properly, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking air struts, repairing or replacing the air compressor, and checking for leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor.

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, especially when the vehicle is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module or parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, and display issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to jam or not open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Interior

• No Issues Found

Recalls:

• Recall Number: 2017100012
  • Description: Recall for Driver Airbag Module.
• Recall Number: 2017070005
  • Description: Recall for Seat Belt Pretensioner.
• Recall Number: 2016080014
  • Description: Recall for Power Steering Hose.

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL500, while luxurious and powerful, is known to have several potential issues. The most common problems relate to the Airmatic suspension, 7G-Tronic transmission, and electrical system. Engine oil leaks are also a common concern. Repair costs can be significant, especially for the suspension and transmission. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and factor in potential maintenance expenses.