MotorDeets

Mercedes-Benz GL550 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every GL550 from 2008 to 2017: 69 owner complaints and 29 recalls across 10 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2011 (15), 2008 (12), 2014 (10). Best fuel economy: 15 mpg combined (2016).

Mercedes-Benz GL550
Photo: IFCAR · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Airbags24
Steering11
Engine11
Electrical10
Other / unknown8
Transmission & drivetrain4
Suspension3
Brakes (hydraulic)3

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200821214
20093614
20103314
201131514
20123814
20133615
201431015
20153815
20164115
201720–

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 Mercedes-Benz GL550.

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Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Mercedes-Benz GL550?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2011 (15), 2008 (12), 2014 (10).

How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz GL550 had?

Across 2008–2017, NHTSA lists 29 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).