2003 Mercedes-Benz G500: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500: 2 recalls, 7 owner complaints and up to 12 mpg combined.

Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Electrical Vehicle recall #08V303000 · 2008 · 404 vehicles
What's wrong: A software calibration number (scn) coding received on the affected vehicles during a recent workshop visit was incorrect. Depending on the model year and model affected, the results of an incorrect scn coding can affect a number of vehicle safety and emission functions including the following types of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings May be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor May not be displayed in the…
Why it matters: In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump May not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed.
The fix: Dealers will recode the scn free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2008.
Exterior lights Vehicle recall #10V366000 · 2010 · 3,552 vehicles
What's wrong: 108, "'lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these vehicles are equipped with a grill cover for front turn signal protection that, while permissible, May impact over time the signal's ability to meet the minimum requirements of fmvss 108.
Why it matters: The signal light's visibility to other motorists May be reduced over time, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will install improved turn light units optimized for usage with grills. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin at the end of December 2010 or early January 2011.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 1 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Body & structure (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Brakes (hydraulic) (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (2): the most common themes are steering problems (2).
- Brakes (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 has 7 owner complaints, ranking #1 of 9 G500 model years for complaints (4.8× the average G500 year). Complaints peaked in 2003 (4 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 0 years old, at a median of 37,941 miles. Neighboring years: 2002 (2 complaints, 1 recalls), 2004 (0 complaints, 1 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 11 | 13 | 12 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 problems?
Owners have filed 7 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are body & structure (2), brakes (hydraulic) (2), steering (2).
What gas mileage does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 get?
EPA ratings run up to 12 mpg combined (5.0 L, Automatic 5-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2003 Mercedes-Benz G500 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.