2015 Mercedes-Benz GL350

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is a luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. It offers a blend of practicality and refinement, making it a popular choice for families. The GL350 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engine producing 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 GL-Class include the GL450 with a gasoline V8 engine, and the GL550 also with a gasoline V8 but higher output. All engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GL350 for its fuel economy compared to its gasoline counterparts, its towing capacity, and its quiet cabin. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as occasional issues with the emissions system and air suspension.

Engine

3.0L Turbo Diesel V6 (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Seal Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil cooler, often dripping onto other engine components. Burning smell may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and warning lights. Can be caused by short trips where the DPF doesn’t reach full temperature for regeneration.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF, or replacement if severely clogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for forced regeneration, $2000 - $4000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• AdBlue (DEF) System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the AdBlue injection system, including faulty sensors, pumps, or injectors. This can trigger warning lights and potentially put the vehicle in limp mode.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the AdBlue system components, including replacement of faulty parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+, depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, excessive smoke.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, suspension warning lights. Often caused by leaking air struts or a failing compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected air strut(s) or the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $800 - $1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly draining, especially when the vehicle is left unused for several days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, possibly caused by faulty control modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ for diagnosis, repair cost varies widely depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather, accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the glow plug module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, or getting stuck
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor or mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Command System Screen
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen flickering, going black, or not responding to touch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Command system screen or head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL350 is a capable SUV but can be prone to expensive repairs, particularly concerning the air suspension and diesel engine components. The most common issues involve oil leaks, DPF and AdBlue system malfunctions, transmission valve body problems, and air suspension failures. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for more significant problems like turbocharger replacement or suspension overhauls. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance costs and ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection.