GL Class (X164) 2007-2012: GL320CDI, GL420CDI, GL450, GL550

2008 GL 320 CDI Suspension

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Old 11-12-2013, 07:43 PM
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2008 GL 320 CDI
2008 GL 320 CDI Suspension

I bought this used at 90k. I have 96k and just started noticing the truck lower in the mornings. It seems to be just the front drivers side. Once I unlock the door the compressor raises the vehicle to the normal height. It seems to be fine while driving. Is this a precursor to airmatic failure or a feature that makes it easier to get in?

Thanks
Old 11-12-2013, 09:31 PM
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2001 SLK 230, 2007 GL 450
It likely means that the front drivers air strut is leaking. You'll want to replace it sooner than later as the extra wear and tear on the pump to keep it inflated will accelerate replacement of the pump.

The rears seem to last longer than the fronts but ironically the rears are easy enough to do yourself. The fronts aren't difficult but are a little more involved.

Whatever you do don't take it to a dealer for this, the struts should be replaced in pairs (fronts or backs) and the dealer prices and parts are steep. Get a good independent shop to install the units from Arnott. Better quality parts and much cheaper.
Old 11-12-2013, 09:51 PM
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2008 GL 320 CDI
Thanks, I just watched this -

I've found a good local shop. I'll find out if they will install these.

What struts do you use?

Edit - I found it on their site - https://www.arnottindustries.com/par...46_gid626.html

Last edited by citizenxxx; 11-12-2013 at 09:54 PM.
Old 11-12-2013, 09:53 PM
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2001 SLK 230, 2007 GL 450
Mine have all been replaced with the Arnott units (pump as well) same as what is in the video. Did the rears myself, fronts and pump had done at a shop.
Old 11-12-2013, 10:01 PM
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What mileage did you do it at? How long have they lasted? Is the compressor louder than the oem?
Old 11-12-2013, 10:06 PM
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Fronts were done at 105K. One of them had been leaking for a while. Previous owner had replaced the pump (mileage uncertain) and it wasn't installed correctly. The installation issues and the leaking strut lead to a premature replacement under less than ideal conditions. (see this thread https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...-no-start.html)

Did the rears at 108K as a preventative measure. They were not leaking yet but they were getting a little hard and dry looking. Rather than wait and with it being so straightforward on the rears I just went ahead and did it.

Arnott pump doesn't sound any different than the original. If anything maybe a tick quieter. With new struts all around any adjustments or raising the vehicle happens quite a noticeable quicker so it doesn't run as long either when it is running. Can't hear it inside with the windows up at all.
Old 11-12-2013, 10:08 PM
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2008 GL 320 CDI
That's great info. Thanks for your help.

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