2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350

Introduction:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 is a mid-size luxury SUV powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Praised for its spacious interior, off-road capabilities, and premium features, the GL350 is a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. However, it’s not without its share of issues.

Engine:

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks: Oil may leak from the valve cover gaskets or the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include a burning oil smell and a low oil level warning light. The fix involves replacing the faulty gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Timing Chain Rattle: A stretched or worn timing chain can cause a rattling noise at idle or during acceleration. The solution is to replace the timing chain and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Transmission:

7-Speed Automatic

• Delayed Shifting: The transmission may hesitate or delay in shifting gears. This can be caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM) or a software glitch. A software update or TCM replacement may be necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Suspension:

• Airmatic Air Suspension Problems: The air suspension system may fail or malfunction, leading to uneven ride height or loss of suspension support. This can be caused by faulty air springs, air lines, or the air compressor. Repair involves replacing the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per corner

Electrical:

• Electrical Gremlins: Various electrical issues have been reported, including malfunctioning headlights, power windows, and dashboard electronics. The fix depends on the specific problem and may involve replacing faulty parts or repairing wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue

Exterior:

• Rust on Undercarriage: The undercarriage of the GL350 may be prone to rust, especially if exposed to salty or corrosive conditions. Regular undercoating can help prevent or mitigate this issue. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Interior:

• Cracked Dashboard: The dashboard may crack or develop blemishes over time. This can be caused by sun exposure or extreme temperature changes. Replacing the dashboard is the only solution. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Faulty Seat Climate Control: The seat heating or cooling function may fail or malfunction. This can be caused by faulty heating or cooling elements or a wiring issue. Repair involves replacing the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary:

While the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 is a capable and luxurious SUV, it does have its share of issues. Some of the more severe problems can be costly to repair, such as timing chain issues or suspension problems. However, many of the issues are minor and can be addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. Overall, the GL350 remains a popular choice for drivers who value performance, comfort, and off-road capability.