2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550 is a luxurious and capable full-size SUV. It offers a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a powerful engine. The GL550 came standard with a 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 engine producing 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2013 GL-Class included a 3.5L V6 engine (GL350) and a 3.0L BlueTEC diesel V6 engine (GL350 BlueTEC). All engine options were paired with a 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the GL550’s luxurious features and powerful engine, while others dislike its high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto exhaust manifolds causing burning smell, visible oil around valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, unusual noises from the engine, check engine light illumination. Potential for turbocharger failure.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause (boost leak, failing actuator, damaged turbine). Replace or repair the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (depending on which turbocharger needs repair or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds; delayed or harsh shifts; check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, transmission slipping, getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, “Visit Workshop” message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak (air springs, valve block, air lines). Replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air spring; $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor; valve block $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airmatic Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle does not rise when started, and the ride height is low and rough.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak (air springs, valve block, air lines). Replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently dies, especially after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include the COMAND system, seat control modules, and door control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive screen, navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, difficulty opening or closing, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks, repair water leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat does not move.
  • Solution: Replace seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550 is a desirable SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of its common issues. The airmatic suspension is a known weak point and can lead to costly repairs. Engine and transmission issues can also be expensive to address. Electrical problems are also not uncommon, especially with the COMAND system. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the mechanic performing the work. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.