ledo1978

I am trying to decide if I should buy a 2008 GL550 that I found at a local MB dealer. the truck looks pretty nice, since it's a 550, it does have almost all the options, including the 21" AMG wheels, DVD system, keyless entry/Go, etc. (except the towing package). has 75k miles. I got it checked out at 2 different mechanics and the only issues are: rear break rotors will need to be replaced soon, the battery might need to be replaced (sometimes the car hesitates a bit when you start it up). dealer is selling as is (no warranty, no further repairs to these issues) and I have been through the negotiation process, got the price down a few thousands to right below $30k. does this seem like a good deal, and do you guys recommend this car based on your experience with it vs. the optioned GL450? (though I haven't found that many comparable cars in the local market otherwise)

alx

They are in it for 23-25k.

Why don't you tell them to throw in a new battery at your cost and see if it fixes the issue? It is a 5 year old truck so a new battery is a good thing either way.

The reason why I am asking is that those trucks have the propensity to develop an expensive problem and slow start/ hesitation is one of the tell-tales.

Shellbmb

The COMAND system changed in 2009, so I'd make sure you can live with the one in the 2008. Maybe consider a 2009 450? The tires on a 550 will be expensive as well to maintain.

EWT

What's the expensive problem?

ledo1978

Thanks for the replies. I've been looking in the local market for a while and did not find that many options, I know the mileage is on the higher side but the car is pretty clean and well-maintained, the 2 mechanics gave it a go except for the couple issues I mentioned. we also like the color combination. I haven't been able to find that many comparable in the local market and I am not very comfortable with the other options (online, auction, etc). do you guys think the price we are at right now (just below $30k) is a good deal given the information I provided? it's not a CPO and there is no warranty included.

ledo1978

Just wanted to give you guys a quick update. we ended up buying the GL550, dealer added an extra key and the bluetooth console, and we got it for just less than $30k. we like the car and we are looking forward to some exciting road trips!

Thanks for the information and the advice we got on this forum. it's been really helpful.

s.busby83

any pix?