2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS450
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 is a luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, opulent interior, and smooth ride. The GLS450 comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine that produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the GLS580 and a high-performance AMG variant. All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GLS for its comfort, technology, and overall refinement, however, some common complaints include complicated infotainment systems, some reliability concerns, and high repair costs.
Engine
3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6
- Engine Hesitation/Stalling
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of engine hesitation upon acceleration or, in rare cases, complete stalling, especially at lower speeds. This can manifest as a momentary lag or a more pronounced cut in power.
- Solution: In some instances, a software update to the engine control unit (ECU) has resolved the issue. In other cases, replacement of faulty fuel injectors or sensors have been needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the specific cause and parts needed)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (specifically around the oil filter housing or valve cover)
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine block, oil puddles under the vehicle, or a burning oil smell can indicate a leak around the oil filter housing or valve cover.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected gaskets, seals, or the entire oil filter housing assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic
- Rough or Delayed Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can feel like a jolt or hesitation during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission control unit (TCU) software update can resolve the issue. More severe cases might require valve body replacement or, in rare instances, a full transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed)
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The engine revs high but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate properly, or there’s a noticeable lag in power delivery.
- Solution: Requires thorough diagnosis, which may involve checking the transmission fluid level and condition, as well as inspecting the valve body, solenoids, and clutches. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+ (depending on severity)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (specifically related to Airmatic system)
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag on one side, fail to maintain proper ride height, or display a warning light on the dashboard. Hissing sounds from the air struts or compressor are also common symptoms.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the air suspension system, which may involve replacing leaking air struts, the air compressor, or the valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ (depending on the component needing replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- MBUX Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or random reboots of the MBUX infotainment system. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are also common.
- Solution: Software updates are often released to address these issues. In more severe cases, the MBUX head unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $2,000+ (for head unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, etc.)
- Description/Symptoms: False alarms or complete failure of parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver-assistance systems. Warning lights on the dashboard will illuminate.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor and replace it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (per sensor)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises when the sunroof is closed, difficulty opening or closing the sunroof, or water leaks.
- Solution: Adjustment, lubrication, or replacement of the sunroof mechanism components (tracks, motors, seals).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, while a luxurious and comfortable SUV, has a range of potential issues. Electrical issues with the MBUX system appear relatively common, but can often be resolved with software updates. Engine oil leaks and air suspension problems could lead to more costly repairs. Although not all vehicles will experience these issues, being aware of them can help owners address them promptly and potentially mitigate further damage.