2016 Mercedes-Benz G500

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 is a luxury SUV known for its iconic boxy design, off-road capabilities, and powerful engine. This model year features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. While admired for its distinctive style and rugged performance, some owners have reported issues related to electronics and trim. The G500 can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces due to its large size.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and oil cooler lines. This can result in a burning oil smell and visible oil drips under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or oil cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or whistling noises from the engine, reduced power, and potential engine malfunction lights. Issues can arise from wastegate malfunctions or bearing failures.
  • Solution: Replace the affected turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC Seven-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold. Can also include slipping between gears or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission service (fluid and filter change). In some cases, the valve body may need to be replaced or rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting unevenly, failing to raise or lower, or displaying a warning light related to the air suspension system. This can be caused by leaks in the air struts, a failing air compressor, or issues with the ride height sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s), replace the air compressor, or repair/replace the ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800-$1500 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of issues stemming from faulty sensors, including erratic readings, warning lights, and performance problems. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and crankshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific faulty sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, and navigation malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates might resolve some issues. More severe cases may require replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery draining quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be due to a parasitic draw from a faulty module or electrical component.
  • Solution: Identify and repair or replace the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust development, particularly around door hinges, and around the seams of the body panels.
  • Solution: Remove and treat rust, then repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per area affected depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise. This can be due to motor failure, track misalignment, or debris accumulation.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks, repair or replace the sunroof motor, or realign the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trim Pieces Coming Loose
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim pieces, particularly on the dashboard and door panels, becoming loose or detaching.
  • Solution: Reattach or replace the loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the trim and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G500, while a luxurious and capable vehicle, can suffer from issues related to its engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. Oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and rough shifting are potential concerns within the powertrain. The electrical system can also be problematic. Rust can also be an issue. The severity and cost of these repairs vary widely, with some issues being relatively minor and others potentially requiring substantial investment.