Below Average Reliability

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

X166 (1st Generation) ยท 3.0L Diesel V6 (GLS350d, 255hp) / 4.7L Biturbo V8 (GLS550, 449hp) / 5.5L Biturbo V8 (GLS63 AMG, 577hp) ยท $36,000 - $78,000

Known Issues โ€” 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS

CRITICAL

AIRMATIC air spring and compressor failure on aging examples

CRITICAL

7G-Tronic conductor plate failure leading to limp mode

MODERATE

Transfer case leaks disabling AWD on high-mileage examples

MODERATE

GLS63 V8 oil leaks from timing cover and valve covers

MODERATE

Rear differential bearing noise under load

MODERATE

Panoramic sunroof drain blockage causing interior leaks

What to Inspect

  • Inspect all four air suspension corners โ€” park overnight and check in morning
  • Scan 7G-Tronic for conductor plate codes
  • Inspect transfer case and rear differential for oil seeps
  • Listen for differential bearing noise under acceleration at 20-50 mph
  • Check panoramic roof drain tubes and headliner for moisture
  • Check GLS63 engine top for oil leaks

Expected Maintenance Costs

Service Interval Cost
Service A (oil & filter) every 10,000 miles $350-$500
Service B (full inspection) every 20,000 miles $800-$1,200
Air spring replacement (each) as needed $1,000-$1,800
Transmission conductor plate as needed $1,000-$1,800
Brake pads and rotors (front) every 25,000-35,000 miles $900-$1,400
Rear differential fluid service every 40,000 miles $250-$450

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