2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is a luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and upscale features. The GL450 came standard with a 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The other engine options for this vehicle were the GL350 with the 3.0L Turbo Diesel V6, and the GL550 with the 4.6L Twin Turbo V8. All GL-Class models came equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the GL450’s smooth power delivery, luxurious appointments, and its ability to comfortably transport up to seven passengers. Some common dislikes include its relatively high maintenance costs and potential for complex repairs.

Engine

4.6L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Camshaft Adjuster Solenoids
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster solenoid area. Visible oil accumulation on the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjuster solenoid seals or the solenoids themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh gear changes, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “Visit Workshop” message displayed, air compressor running excessively or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected air spring(s), air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air spring, $500 - $1,200+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, frequent jump starts required.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain. This may involve replacing the battery, faulty modules, or repairing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezes, unresponsive buttons, navigation problems, audio issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Sunroof track repair or replacement, motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or dashboard cover installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ for replacement, $100 - $300 for a cover
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Power Seats
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not moving in one or more directions, unusual noises during seat adjustment.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450, while offering a luxurious and spacious experience, is prone to several common issues. The most significant problems revolve around the air suspension system, which can be costly to repair, and the potential for turbocharger failure on the 4.6L Twin-Turbo V8. Electrical issues, particularly battery drain and COMAND system malfunctions, are also frequent complaints. Interior issues like a cracked dashboard are not uncommon either. Owners should be prepared for potentially high maintenance and repair costs associated with this vehicle. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, potentially reaching several thousands of dollars in some cases.