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

Unhappy screeching noise / high pitched whistling noise in GL320 Bluetec

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Rate Thread
 
Old May 30, 2014 | 01:29 PM
  #1  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
Unhappy Unhappy screeching noise / high pitched whistling noise in GL320 Bluetec

Hello, I'm new to this forum. Recently, I've purchased 2009 GL320 Blutec. It was all fine for a few miles and then I started hearing high pitched whistling / screeching sound from the engine. The dealer sold the car without warranty, so no point of going back to him (he is located in Another state, anyway). I showed the truck to a local mechanic. He charged $ 800 for replacing the drive belt tensioner, belt and some sort of pulleys. However, the sound still persists. Any clue ? The sound varies as per the speed ( and also while in neutral by raising the RPMs..so, its not a wind noise). Pl. help. I've already spent enough of money and cant drive properly because of this annoying noise. Thanks !
Reply
Old May 30, 2014 | 02:57 PM
  #2  
N_Jay's Avatar
Out Of Control!!
15 Year Member
Community Builder
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,516
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Did it get any better or different when they changed the tensioner?


If you are not mechanically incline, I would search out a local independent shop with MB experience.


$800 For a drive belt and tensioner is outrageous. Are you sure that is all they did?


EDIT:
Noise from the front of the engine can be internal or an accessory.
Accessories include; Water pump, power steering pump, alternator, AC compressor, and a few idlers and the tensioner.


A quick test it to take off the serpentine belt and start the car briefly (very briefly as the water pump is not running)


If the noise is gone then you need to start playing with each of the above list and see if one (or more) does not feel right.


If the noise still exists you need to go in deeper.

Last edited by N_Jay; May 30, 2014 at 03:22 PM.
Reply
Old May 31, 2014 | 05:44 PM
  #3  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
Thanks Jay,
Checked everything including belt, tensioner, alternator, water pump, compressor etc. found nothing. I suspect the noise is due to turbo exhaust, as I also smell some exhaust from the engine. The noise starts only when the engine is warmed up (after driving for few miles). I've taken an appointment with a dealer on Thursday. Anyone has clue, where I should ask them to start from (like sensor or something) ?? As, I've heard about dealer suggesting to replace to whole part like turbo or exhaust, even when its not required. I just wish to go there with some knowledge so, dealer doesn't hit me hard
Reply
Old Jun 2, 2014 | 10:52 AM
  #4  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
The noise exists even if the car is parked. I've noticed that the noise starts only when the engine is warmed up. Appreciate, if anyone could help me with the steps on checking out Turbo and its exhaust,


Originally Posted by nir08
Thanks Jay,
Checked everything including belt, tensioner, alternator, water pump, compressor etc. found nothing. I suspect the noise is due to turbo exhaust, as I also smell some exhaust from the engine. The noise starts only when the engine is warmed up (after driving for few miles). I've taken an appointment with a dealer on Thursday. Anyone has clue, where I should ask them to start from (like sensor or something) ?? As, I've heard about dealer suggesting to replace to whole part like turbo or exhaust, even when its not required. I just wish to go there with some knowledge so, dealer doesn't hit me hard
Reply
Old Jun 2, 2014 | 11:27 AM
  #5  
N_Jay's Avatar
Out Of Control!!
15 Year Member
Community Builder
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,516
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Maybe get a contact stethoscope and start probing around.
Reply
Old Jun 2, 2014 | 03:24 PM
  #6  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
Cant do that...Maybe, that's what you know at the best !! Thanks for your stupid (oops) suggestion.

Originally Posted by N_Jay
Maybe get a contact stethoscope and start probing around.
Reply
Old Jun 2, 2014 | 03:59 PM
  #7  
N_Jay's Avatar
Out Of Control!!
15 Year Member
Community Builder
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,516
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Why is that a stupid suggestion?


(Are maybe the question is; "why is any stupider than asking people here to guess what problem you are having and providing the steps for you?")
Reply
Old Jun 3, 2014 | 12:40 PM
  #8  
alx's Avatar
alx
MBWorld Fanatic!
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,268
Likes: 253
Originally Posted by nir08
Cant do that...Maybe, that's what you know at the best !! Thanks for your stupid (oops) suggestion.
really?

you asked for help, a (proper) suggestion was given and you... get offensive?

good luck
Reply
MB World Stories

The Best of Mercedes & AMG

story-0

6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

 Verdad Gallardo
story-1

Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

 Verdad Gallardo
story-2

Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

 Verdad Gallardo
story-4

Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

 Verdad Gallardo
story-5

Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-6

Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-7

5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

 Verdad Gallardo
story-8

Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

 Verdad Gallardo
story-9

10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

 Verdad Gallardo
Old Jun 3, 2014 | 10:59 PM
  #9  
BlownV8's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 8,882
Likes: 1,212
From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
nir08, you may not be very familiar with cars or equipment so I think your quip may have been centered around ignorance. There is an automotove stethoscope you can use to determine where the noise is located. Do a quick search on the internet and buy one. Just be careful with the rotating pieces and parts of the engine so you don't get hurt.
Reply
Old Jun 4, 2014 | 10:02 AM
  #10  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
I sincerely apologize Jay...I didn't know about automotive stethoscope and I assumed you were just making fun of my question. Sorry..I generally try with our regular screw driver, if I want to check out the noise and had no clue about this type of stethoscope. You tried to help me and i got offended. Very sorry about it.

Update: Yesterday, check engine light came on with P0426 code ( Catalyst Temp Sensor Range/Performance Bank 1). I'm pissed of
Reply
Old Jun 4, 2014 | 10:30 AM
  #11  
N_Jay's Avatar
Out Of Control!!
15 Year Member
Community Builder
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,516
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Since the car is new to you, you need to get it sorted out by someone you trust.


Where are you located?
Reply
Old Jun 4, 2014 | 10:46 AM
  #12  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
Princeton, NJ


Originally Posted by N_Jay
Since the car is new to you, you need to get it sorted out by someone you trust.


Where are you located?
Reply
Old Jun 4, 2014 | 10:53 AM
  #13  
N_Jay's Avatar
Out Of Control!!
15 Year Member
Community Builder
Liked
Loved
 
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,516
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Try asking here;
https://mbworld.org/forums/tri-state...nnecticut-153/
Or maybe here:
https://mbworld.org/forums/mid-atlantic-121/
Reply
Old Jun 11, 2014 | 01:32 PM
  #14  
drgeeforce's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 140
Likes: 4
From: California
2010 GL350, 2005 BMW X5 4.8is, 2015 BMW 328d
Originally Posted by nir08
Thanks Jay,
Checked everything including belt, tensioner, alternator, water pump, compressor etc. found nothing. I suspect the noise is due to turbo exhaust, as I also smell some exhaust from the engine. The noise starts only when the engine is warmed up (after driving for few miles). I've taken an appointment with a dealer on Thursday. Anyone has clue, where I should ask them to start from (like sensor or something) ?? As, I've heard about dealer suggesting to replace to whole part like turbo or exhaust, even when its not required. I just wish to go there with some knowledge so, dealer doesn't hit me hard
P042X Exhaust Catalyst, therefore:
1.Exhaust Manifold Leak. 2 gaskets~$20/pair. + labor
2.Turbocharger Exhaust Collector Pipe leak. 2 gaskets~ $9.00/pair + labor
3.O2 sensor leak. $23 + Labor


http://www.mbpartsworld.com/showAsse...sembly=1079902

Last edited by drgeeforce; Jun 11, 2014 at 01:53 PM.
Reply
Old Jun 19, 2014 | 07:53 AM
  #15  
bha's Avatar
bha
Senior Member
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 427
Likes: 57
13 GL350, 14 SL550
Are you sure it isn't the A/C?

Mine has a high pitched whine/whistle and the problem is these trucks came with A/C pulleys that fail. You can replace the pulley ($180 part) and it's difficult, or the entire compressor ($450 part) and it's easier.

To test, make SURE the A/C is off and see if the noise goes away.

The reason I say that in caps is nobody knows how to turn off the A/C properly in these trucks

Pushing the AC button so the light is off does NOT turn off the compressor. You need to turn the AC off first, then push the off button on the entire climate control. Then the AC stops running.

So hold your truck at 1200-1800rpm or so on the road or in park (wherever you hear the noise, but mine is somewhere around there). While doing so, listen for the whine, shut the AC button off, then shut the climate control completely off.

If the noise goes away, let me know and I will send you the document on replacing the pulley.
Reply
Old Jun 19, 2014 | 04:12 PM
  #16  
alx's Avatar
alx
MBWorld Fanatic!
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,268
Likes: 253
Originally Posted by bha
Pushing the AC button so the light is off does NOT turn off the compressor. You need to turn the AC off first, then push the off button on the entire climate control. Then the AC stops running.
the ac clutch signal is manipulated directly via the ac button on the dash. once activated the ecu decides when to disengage and re-engage the clutch based on evap coil temp, refrigerant temp and other things.

short story - you have the a/c button "off" - the ac compressor is not turning as the button is necessary but insufficient requirement for the ac clutch to engage
Reply
Old Jun 19, 2014 | 05:11 PM
  #17  
bha's Avatar
bha
Senior Member
15 Year Member
 
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 427
Likes: 57
13 GL350, 14 SL550
Originally Posted by alx
the ac clutch signal is manipulated directly via the ac button on the dash. once activated the ecu decides when to disengage and re-engage the clutch based on evap coil temp, refrigerant temp and other things.

short story - you have the a/c button "off" - the ac compressor is not turning as the button is necessary but insufficient requirement for the ac clutch to engage
Although the clutch disengages, something is still spinning until you shut the system off. The pulley/clutch/compressor on this truck is a bit unique so it operates differently than others.

MB specifically says when you are diagnosing pulley noises to do exactly what I said above. They tell you to shut off the A/C and then shut off the entire system.

On mine, the pulley keeps whining after you shut off the A/C. As soon as you shut off the entire system, it stops.
Reply
Old Jun 20, 2014 | 10:42 AM
  #18  
alx's Avatar
alx
MBWorld Fanatic!
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 4,268
Likes: 253
Originally Posted by bha
Although the clutch disengages, something is still spinning until you shut the system off. The pulley/clutch/compressor on this truck is a bit unique so it operates differently than others.

MB specifically says when you are diagnosing pulley noises to do exactly what I said above. They tell you to shut off the A/C and then shut off the entire system.

On mine, the pulley keeps whining after you shut off the A/C. As soon as you shut off the entire system, it stops.
no. the setup is ac mb-generic as they come. if yours behaves differently then there is something wrong there. turn off a/c via the button and see if cold air still comes out after 30 seconds. what you might be experiencing is a/c lock out - ie there is e predefined delay before the compressor can be shut down (and turned back on btw) to prevent short cycling. this is the only scenario when the a/c button can be ignored, but shutting down the whole system disengages the clutch anyhow and overrides the lock out.

mb specifically says to shut off the climate control altogether for simplicity of following rules in the field and to rule out the compressor lock out period.

the a/c button does just what it is supposed to do. there is no trickery there if you are not hitting the lock out period

Last edited by alx; Jun 20, 2014 at 10:49 AM.
Reply
Old Jun 23, 2014 | 11:17 AM
  #19  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
UPDATE : The noise was due to the loose clamp on Turbo Exhaust. It is fixed, now.

Thanks guys for your support..I've learned a few great things, here.
Reply
Old Jun 23, 2014 | 11:22 AM
  #20  
nir08's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 11
Likes: 1
GL 320 BlueTec 2009
Thanks..

Originally Posted by drgeeforce
P042X Exhaust Catalyst, therefore:
1.Exhaust Manifold Leak. 2 gaskets~$20/pair. + labor
2.Turbocharger Exhaust Collector Pipe leak. 2 gaskets~ $9.00/pair + labor
3.O2 sensor leak. $23 + Labor


http://www.mbpartsworld.com/showAsse...sembly=1079902
Reply
Old Jun 23, 2014 | 02:34 PM
  #21  
drgeeforce's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 140
Likes: 4
From: California
2010 GL350, 2005 BMW X5 4.8is, 2015 BMW 328d
Originally Posted by nir08
Thanks..
Your welcome. The codes pretty much tell you what's wrong.
Reply
Old Jun 23, 2014 | 02:34 PM
  #22  
drgeeforce's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 140
Likes: 4
From: California
2010 GL350, 2005 BMW X5 4.8is, 2015 BMW 328d
Originally Posted by nir08
Thanks..
Your welcome. The codes basically tells you what's wrong, or where to start looking.
Reply
Old Dec 23, 2021 | 10:49 PM
  #23  
Lamont Clemons's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
2008 mercedes-benz gl 320
2008 mercedes-benz gl 320 cdi x164

I’m having the same issue I think whine noise then smell exhaust drive it 20 mins both goes away. What did u come up with


QUOTE=nir08;6059095]Thanks Jay,
Checked everything including belt, tensioner, alternator, water pump, compressor etc. found nothing. I suspect the noise is due to turbo exhaust, as I also smell some exhaust from the engine. The noise starts only when the engine is warmed up (after driving for few miles). I've taken an appointment with a dealer on Thursday. Anyone has clue, where I should ask them to start from (like sensor or something) ?? As, I've heard about dealer suggesting to replace to whole part like turbo or exhaust, even when its not required. I just wish to go there with some knowledge so, dealer doesn't hit me hard [/QUOTE]
Reply
Old Dec 24, 2021 | 09:40 AM
  #24  
DennisG01's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
5 Year Member
 
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 1,932
Likes: 291
From: Allentown, PA
'08 GL 320 CDI
[QUOTE=Lamont Clemons;8479528]I’m having the same issue I think whine noise then smell exhaust drive it 20 mins both goes away. What did u come up with
QUOTE=nir08;6059095]

Lamont - read through the entire thread. There's good info in there and the OP mentioned the fix, as well.
Reply

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 


You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 12:59 PM.

story-0
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-1
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-2
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-3
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-4
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-5
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-6
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-7
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-8
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-9
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE