2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS580

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS580 is a luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, comfort, and powerful performance. The GLS580 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2021 GLS include the GLS450 which has a 3.0L Inline-6 Turbo engine that produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the GLS580 for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology, but some have reported issues with the infotainment system, air suspension, and various electrical components.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing engine misfires, especially at higher mileage. This can manifest as rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating. The cause is often attributed to faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. A diagnostic scan can pinpoint the affected cylinder(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the number of cylinders affected and parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a recurring concern, particularly around the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially between lower gears. This can be more noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for software update; $1500 - $4000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse is another reported issue. This may be accompanied by a slight clunking sound.
  • Solution: Requires a transmission diagnostic and potential repair or replacement of internal components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $7000+ depending on the severity and parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, while providing a comfortable ride, is prone to issues. Common symptoms include the vehicle sitting lower than normal, uneven ride height, and error messages on the dashboard related to the air suspension system. The air compressor, air struts, and height sensors can all be potential failure points.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air compressor, air strut(s), or height sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+ depending on the component needing replacement and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Air leaks in the system can cause the car to sink to the ground, especially after sitting for an extended period.
  • Solution: The air lines and fittings need to be checked and replaced if there are leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system has been reported to experience various glitches, including freezing, lagging, and random reboots. Software updates are often released to address these issues.
  • Solution: Performing a software update or, in more severe cases, replacing the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update resolves the issue) - $2000+ for module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, including those related to the parking assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist systems, can malfunction. This can result in false warnings or the system not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor. A diagnostic scan can pinpoint the affected sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the sensor and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Trim Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing trim rattles, particularly in the dashboard and door panels.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacing loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the rattles and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS580, while a luxurious and capable SUV, can experience a range of issues. The most common problems revolve around the air suspension, electrical system, and engine. Severity ranges from minor software glitches to major component failures like air suspension struts or transmission valve bodies. Repair costs can vary widely, with some issues being relatively inexpensive to fix while others can be quite costly, potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and ensure a thorough inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase.