mrchris

Well I almost pulled the trigger on a 550 last December and held off. I'm shopping again and to be honest the 550 has been at the top of my list for quite some time.

After reading on the issues with some of the other GL's like Tamz, I'm really struggling to plunk down the money. I'm looking at a low mileage '09 or possible '10 not brand new. I've seen an heard people say that the 550's are far better in terms of fewer problems than the 350's and 450's and I've even seen it suggested that there is a slightly better build quality on the 550's.

I'm likely to go the CPO route, hopefully that provides a little extra piece of mind. The GL series really fits my needs and family size the best, I love the way the 550 feels on the road. And I certainly don't mind the gas mileage or added tire wear it seems to bring. I know the maintenance on an MB is going to be a bit higher than an Acura or Lexus as well. But I also don't want to spend my life living in the waiting room at the local MB dealer. Nor do I want a black hole to throw money in non-stop, I already have a boat for that!

I guess I'm really just looking for some reassurance and want to hear some real world expectations specific to the 550. The 450 just doesn't quite cut it for me, it looks a little too pedestrian without the fender flares and such and I just have no interest in the diesel at all.

Brocktoon

All you can do is take your chances. I have only had very minor problems, maybe a Lexus would have been a lemon. Buy what you like enough to live with if it is slightly problematic.

LEOSOPHIE

Mine has been perfect for 3 years with only a tow hitch recall. 19.7 mpg on an 1100 mile trip CA to AZ. Fun to drive and fun to pass.

fgv1it

I have had three MB SUV's, two ML's and an '07 GL450 which I still have, and all three have been very reliable. While there are always some problem cars that get through the quality checks in manufacturing, that can happen with any make, and you would always be taking a chance no matter what brand you get. However, the probabilities are very much in your favor: the vast majority of cars nowadays are vastly more reliable than before. Get what you want, and don't worry about potential problems that may never happen.

EWT

Like any vehicle, some are more reliable than others. My 08 CPO 550 has been in for one minor (although expensive had I been paying) repair to the emissions equipment on the fuel system, and one major repair to take apart and repair the transmission in 9 months of ownership. It is about to go back to repair a fluid leak coming from somewhere under the hood. I don't often buy extended warranties, but I did on this purchase given the cost of potential repairs and am glad I did given my repair history so far.

TamZ

I will never bash the GL, because I truly do believe that all brands have a vehicle like mine that for whatever reason, slips through. I honestly say if a GL is what you want, then get a GL. The chances are slim that you will EVER have to deal with a situation like mine!


Tam

BJ021

My GL has been a dream truck. Zero issues 47K in. Everyone is correct, sometimes people just happen to walk into the wrong ones. It's like getting a bad meal in a great restaurant - sometimes it happens. Be positive and pick up your favorite color! Enjoy!

katelynsdad

Our GL550 (2008 model) has over 51K and only one problem has resulted in a visit to the dealership--repair was covered under warranty. The GL has exceeded my expectations, especially as a family hauler on long trips.

mrchris

Thanks everyone, appreciate the reassurance. I do realize every brand will have the occasional lemon, it just seemed like there was a little high number than average compared to other makes.

I did an extended test drive with a 450 and then the 550 and really fell in the love with the 550. Haven't quite sold the wife on it, she really likes the big Infiniti, but in the end I know she will let me get the MB.

TamZ

Have you driven the QX? I can now say I have been the owner of both (just got the QX!) and I must say, hands down, I feel the QX is a much better ride than my GL in so many ways. I've put about 300 miles on the QX so far and I can't stop smiling....Definitely something I never experienced with my particular GL

Tam

LEOSOPHIE

Double the horsepower and even more torque must drive much differently than your diesel. Glad to see you are finally happy and you have the time to spend more productively than worrying about transportation. Don't be a stranger.

B200Turbo

Our GL was the best car we ever had.
Waiting for new one coming in April.
Great in all aspects.