dawk

Considering purchasing a 2007-2008 GL450 or GL320. From my research it seems as though the GL320 has more problems? I like the fuel mileage of the diesel, but it seems to have more problems than the 450. I am purchasing a higher mileage vehicle (80K+). I can do most of the work myself (Air Shocks, Bushings, Oil changes, etc), but hesitant with a diesel.

Is there a major difference in reliability with 320? Electronics? Engine components? Etc? Thoughts

BlownV8

The only real difference is the engine. Yes, the diesel is more costly to maintain. Just do a search in this forum. Will tell you quite a bit.

gordongl450

I had a 2007 GL450 with the standard V8 engine. Recommendation was to use premium gas only and the gas mileage was terrible. Unlike now, premium gas was expensive back then. Around town my wife would get 12 mpg. The V8 ran fast on the highways, but we tow boats and it did not have a lot of torque when pulling a boat up hills. The transmission would downshift a lot!

In 2008 we traded it in and went with the 2008 GL 320 CDI. The trucks were exactly the same except for the engine. What a great engine for pulling boats. Just a more powerful feel overall and gets 20 to 22 mpg around town and 22 to 25 mpg on the highway.

I hope this trucks last a long time. The engine has been very reliable through 93,000 miles on our truck. I think the CDI engine is better that having to deal with the Blue Tec version.

We have had to replace all 4 air suspension lifters and the air pump for them. Also had to replace the AC compressor. But the engine a has been fine.

Good luck.

dawk

The only major fix I am worried about is the valve body or conductor plate in the transmission. Seems like a common problem and an expensive fix.