2018 Mercedes-Benz G500

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G500 represents a blend of rugged off-road capability and luxurious appointments. The G500 came equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. While the G-Wagon offers exceptional off-road prowess, its boxy design also contributes to wind noise and a less-than-agile on-road driving experience. Owners often appreciate its iconic styling and luxurious interior, but some may find the fuel economy and relatively firm ride to be drawbacks. It came equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and around the turbocharger lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is the typical repair. Depending on the location, the job can range from relatively simple to more involved, requiring removal of other components for access.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The twin-turbochargers can experience issues such as wastegate malfunction, boost leaks, or even complete failure. Symptoms include reduced engine power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is critical to determine the exact cause. Repair options range from replacing a faulty wastegate solenoid to replacing the entire turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can manifest as jerking or hesitation during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, while providing a comfortable ride, can be prone to issues such as air leaks, compressor failure, or faulty sensors. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a warning light on the dashboard, and a noisy or non-functional air compressor.
  • Solution: Repair involves identifying and replacing the faulty component, such as an air strut, compressor, or sensor. Leak detection using soapy water can help pinpoint air leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: A variety of sensors throughout the vehicle can fail, leading to various issues. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and crankshaft position sensors. Symptoms depend on the affected sensor, but can include a check engine light, poor engine performance, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to identify the faulty sensor. Replacement is typically straightforward.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Attempting a system reset may resolve minor issues. Software updates can also address known bugs. In severe cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly. This can be an intermittent issue or a complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator is the typical repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can experience problems, such as failing to open or close smoothly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair may involve lubricating the mechanism, replacing worn parts, or, in severe cases, replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G500, while a capable and luxurious vehicle, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems are common concerns, while the transmission can exhibit rough shifting. Air suspension problems are another potential source of expense. Electrical gremlins, such as sensor failures and COMAND system glitches, can also occur. Door lock actuators and sunroof malfunctions are additional points of concern. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor to more costly repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.