2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS500

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS500 (badged GLS550 in the US market) is a full-size luxury SUV, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and technology. The GLS500 is powered by a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the GLS-Class in 2017 included a 3.0-liter V6 in the GLS450 and a high-performance AMG 5.5-liter V8 in the GLS63. All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the GLS500 for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. Common dislikes include the high price tag, complicated infotainment system, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks (Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the front timing cover area. Noticeable oil stains on the engine and potentially a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing cover gasket and resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, check engine light illumination. Often related to oil starvation or excessive wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on whether one or both turbos need replacing)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission software update, valve body replacement, or, in severe cases, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (software update), $1,500 - $3,500 (valve body), $5,000 - $8,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, error messages related to the air suspension system, compressor running constantly, harsh ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut (depending on location), $800 - $1,500 (compressor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Identify and repair parasitic drain (often related to faulty modules or wiring), replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (battery replacement), $200 - $1,000+ (diagnosing and repairing parasitic drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, rebooting, or displaying error messages. Navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $300 (software update), $1,500 - $3,500+ (COMAND unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• LED Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more LED elements in the headlight failing, causing reduced visibility.
  • Solution: Headlight assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, excessive noise when operating.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS500 can be a luxurious and enjoyable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and air suspension failures can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches and infotainment system malfunctions are also potential concerns. The severity of these issues varies, and while some can be relatively minor, others can lead to significant repair bills. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.