2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS450
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 is a luxurious three-row SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. The GLS450 is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine with mild hybrid drive, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other available engines for the 2024 GLS include the GLS580 with a 4.0L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive producing 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, and the AMG GLS63 with a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive producing 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Many owners praise the GLS450 for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and ample cargo space. Criticisms often include its high price point and the complexity of its infotainment system.
Engine
3.0L Inline-6 Turbo with Mild Hybrid Drive
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased power, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Diagnosis using an OBD-II scanner to identify the affected cylinder(s). Replacement of the faulty component (ignition coil, spark plug, or fuel injector).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ (depending on the number of cylinders affected and parts replaced).
- Recalls: None Found
- Mild Hybrid System Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the 48V mild hybrid system can lead to reduced engine power, failure of the start/stop system, and error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified technician using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic equipment to identify the specific fault within the mild hybrid system. Repair or replacement of the affected component (e.g., integrated starter generator (ISG), 48V battery).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ (depending on the component needing repair/replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration may also be present.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In other cases, replacement of valve body may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2000+ (valve body replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (AIRMATIC)
- Description/Symptoms: The optional AIRMATIC air suspension can experience problems such as sagging, uneven ride height, or failure to adjust properly. This can result from leaks in the air struts, a faulty compressor, or issues with the control module.
- Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the air leak or malfunction. Replacement of the affected air strut(s), compressor, or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per strut (depending on location), $800 - $1500+ for compressor replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system can sometimes freeze, crash, or exhibit slow response times. This may require a system reboot or software update to resolve.
- Solution: Try a soft reset of the system. If the problem persists, a software update performed by a Mercedes-Benz dealer may be necessary. In rare cases, hardware replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (soft reset) - $500+ (software update/hardware replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
- Description/Symptoms: False alarms or failure of the parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver-assistance systems.
- Solution: Inspection and cleaning of the affected sensors. Replacement of faulty sensors or repair of wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the sensor and labor).
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof/Moonroof Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the sunroof or moonroof mechanism, such as difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
- Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the sunroof tracks and mechanism. Repair or replacement of faulty motors, gears, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on the severity of the issue and parts required).
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, while a luxury SUV, has some reported issues across several key areas. Engine misfires and mild hybrid system malfunctions can lead to performance concerns and potentially high repair costs. Transmission problems like rough shifting can detract from the driving experience. The air suspension, while providing a comfortable ride, can be prone to issues requiring expensive repairs. Electrical problems involving the infotainment system and sensors can be frustrating, while sunroof malfunctions can also arise. While not all vehicles will experience these issues, being aware of them can help prospective buyers make an informed decision. Severity varies greatly, with electrical glitches being minor inconveniences, and suspension issues being potentially major expenses.