2012 Mercedes-Benz G500

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G500 is a luxury SUV known for its iconic, boxy design and off-road capabilities. In 2012, the G500 was equipped with a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic). Some owners appreciate the G500 for its ruggedness, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Common complaints include its high price, poor fuel economy, and somewhat dated driving dynamics compared to more modern SUVs.

Engine

5.5L Naturally Aspirated V8 (M273)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from various engine seals and gaskets, particularly around the valve covers and oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light (CEL) Due to Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty oxygen sensors can trigger the check engine light. Symptoms include reduced fuel economy and potentially rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per sensor, depending on location and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Pulley Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise such as squealing or rattling noises coming from the front of the engine. Can lead to belt failure and other issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the idler pulley and potentially the belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting between gears, jerky shifts, or a noticeable delay when accelerating. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty valve body, or worn solenoids.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing the valve body, or replacing faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for a fluid flush, $1,500 - $3,000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, or stalling, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Torque Converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, leading to the vehicle sitting low or unevenly. Symptoms include a suspension malfunction warning light, sagging suspension, and a noisy compressor.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Air leaks from the air struts can cause the vehicle to sit low or unevenly. You may also hear hissing sounds.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning COMAND System
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which controls navigation, audio, and other functions, can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, component repair, or system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid battery drain, especially when the vehicle is not in use. Can be caused by a faulty module or component not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the faulty module or component causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Some G-Wagens, especially those exposed to harsh climates, can develop rust on body panels, particularly around the door hinges, wheel arches, and seams.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise when opening or closing, or leak water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater stops working. Can be caused by a faulty heating element or wiring.
  • Solution: Replace heating element or fix the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G500 can experience a range of issues, from engine oil leaks and transmission problems to air suspension failures and electrical glitches. The severity of these issues can vary, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others, such as major engine or transmission repairs, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used G500. While a lot of these issues are not overly detrimental, the cost to fix them can be a bit high.