2011 Mercedes-Benz GL550

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL550 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its powerful engine, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Other engine options include the GL350 BlueTEC with a 3.0L diesel V6 producing 210 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and the GL450 with a 4.6L gasoline V8 generating 335 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The GL550 boasts a 5.5L gasoline V8 that delivers 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise its refined driving experience, luxurious features, and ample passenger and cargo space. Common complaints often revolve around maintenance costs and occasional electronic glitches. All models are equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

5.5L Gasoline V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil spots under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or components is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the leak location
• Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light comes on and displays a code related to the mass airflow sensor, oxygen sensors, or catalytic converters.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor or catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+

GL350 BlueTEC with a 3.0L diesel V6 No Issues Found

GL450 with a 4.6L gasoline V8 No Issues Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may help. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits lower than normal, uneven height at different corners, or the air compressor runs constantly. “Visit Workshop” message may appear.
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor

Electrical

• Faulty Power Tailgate
  • Description/Symptoms: The power tailgate either doesn’t open/close or has intermittent functionality.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate struts and/or the tailgate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days, requiring a jump start.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut-off device).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis) + cost of parts & labor

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck or makes grinding noises when opening/closing.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL550, while a luxurious and capable SUV, can present owners with several potential issues. Suspension problems, particularly with the air suspension, are a common concern and can be expensive to repair. Electrical issues, such as those related to the power tailgate and battery drain, may also occur. Engine oil leaks and transmission issues like rough shifting and torque converter problems can also arise. These issues range in severity from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing and maintenance considerations.