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

New GL550, initial question

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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 11:51 AM
  #1  
Dakota GL's Avatar
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2008 GL 550
New GL550, initial question

Hello -

Glad I was able to find a forum for this vehicle, I've found them very useful on my other ones.

I'm getting a GL550 in 2 days, and the dealer (closest) is 200 miles away. I haven't had time to read up on all the issues, but are there some things I should put on a "checklist" for them to look at, TSB's, recalls, etc? I have noticed the trailer hitch issue first.

If I have a nagging problem, unfortunately its quite a trip to get it looked at, so anything I can get checked in advance will be ultra-helpful.

I had an issue with an LR3 a couple hundred miles into the trip home that was the start of the week of frustration before the dealer actually took the vehicle back and I bought a Land Cruiser. I have flashbacks of that often as I contemplate this new SUV!

Thanks so much-

John
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 12:19 PM
  #2  
Brocktoon's Avatar
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From: B.C.
GL 320cdi, Chevrolet Avalanchero, GLE 350 (on order)
You might wanna make sure the tranny has the latest software.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:01 PM
  #3  
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'06 A6 & '08 GL550
I'd recommend having them install the iPod amplifier (getting mine installed today). Bulletin #P-B-82.85/597. Part #204-870-39-94.

Also, make sure you have the very latest NAV dvd. A new one just came out.

Roll down your rear windows and make sure there is no clunking noise.

Before you leave the dealership, I'd suggest taking the 550 out on the road for a test drive. First off, make sure your steering feels good. Second, from a standing stop, stomp on the accelerator and make sure it responds immediately. Some folks have reported a very slight delay and that would be dangerous in an emergency situation. Lastly, you might want to check out this web-site that lists all of the known TSB's; MB GL TSB's

You're going to love your 550! Be sure to post pictures once you bring the new baby home.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:11 PM
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Dakota GL's Avatar
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2008 GL 550
Thanks, that's really helpful. I'm putting together and email for the dealership's GM.

John
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:21 PM
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2008 GL 550
Holy moly. Just how is that list interpreted? Doesn't do a lot to add confidence in the vehicle from the get-go! Maybe all vehicles have them, I just haven't seen the list before.

John
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:24 PM
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Originally Posted by Dakota GL
Holy moly. Just how is that list interpreted? Doesn't do a lot to add confidence in the vehicle from the get-go! Maybe all vehicles have them, I just haven't seen the list before.

This is the way engineering works everywhere.

I'd recommend taking the viewpoint that the longer the list the more the manufacturer cares about the customer.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:25 PM
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2008 GL 550
I can't tell if its a list of complaints, or fixes? I'm certain those can't all be outstanding recommendations for all vehicles, they'd go broke just on labor on this one model.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 03:29 PM
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Originally Posted by Stumblefoot
Also, make sure you have the very latest NAV dvd. A new one just came out.
My head's tilting like a dog who hears a high pitched noise - more than your BMD in your profile pic! When did this new NAV DVD come out?

STP
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 05:39 PM
  #9  
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
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Originally Posted by StevethePilot
When did this new NAV DVD come out?
I received a flyer from MB last week. The cost is $199. I asked the SA to make sure that before he replaces my existing one that he ensures it is more recent than the one I received with the truck last fall.

In the grand scheme of things, it's probably not necessary, but I like having the latest version of software if possible.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 05:42 PM
  #10  
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
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Originally Posted by Dakota GL
I can't tell if its a list of complaints, or fixes? I'm certain those can't all be outstanding recommendations for all vehicles, they'd go broke just on labor on this one model.
I agree with lkchris that it's MB's way of taking care of the customer Dakota.

From what I understand, your MB SA won't go through this list when you bring your GL in for service. But, if you have a specific complaint, he can cross-reference your complaint with the TSB list to see if there is a known solution. Saves the mechanics boatloads of time I imagine.
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 09:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Stumblefoot
I received a flyer from MB last week. The cost is $199.
Huh. I checked the Navteq web site and it states the latest version was released June 2007 (which I have). I'll have to sign up for updates.

I guess 550 owners get notified before 450 and then 320 owners are the last to know
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Old Aug 4, 2008 | 10:36 PM
  #12  
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Originally Posted by Newbie_2_MB
I guess 550 owners get notified before 450 and then 320 owners are the last to know
I guess that makes me "Garfunkle."
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Old Aug 6, 2008 | 04:17 PM
  #13  
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
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Originally Posted by Newbie_2_MB
Huh. I checked the Navteq website and it states the latest version was released June 2007 (which I have).

I guess 550 owners get notified before 450 and then 320 owners are the last to know
It looks like 550 owners get sent erroneous information instead.

The flyer I received was totally incorrect. There is no new NAV dvd. June '07 is the latest version as you stated.
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Old Aug 6, 2008 | 04:35 PM
  #14  
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Originally Posted by Stumblefoot
It looks like 550 owners get sent erroneous information instead.

The flyer I received was totally incorrect. There is no new NAV dvd. June '07 is the latest version as you stated.
You sure? Maybe MaBenz figured you 550 owners are too busy to pay attention to where you drop a couple hundred bucks
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Old Aug 6, 2008 | 04:46 PM
  #15  
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
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Originally Posted by oknish
Maybe MaBenz figured you 550 owners are too busy to pay attention to where you drop a couple hundred bucks
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