Bigben97

Just rolled passed 100k miles.

Was quoted $2700, then reduced to $2300, to replace the timing chain and tensioners. All of my reading here says just the chain would solve it.

Planning to get some second opinions but looking for feedback on the fix and pricing.

KrustyKustom

she is going to need a timing chain. At 100k I wonder how much wear is on the gears/sprockets in question and if a new chain would not last real long?

I do not get these chains needing replacing. Mine was totally shot at 63k but started coming on at 45k.

There is a MB version of a TSB on it.

Bigben97

Update now that we've picked up our vehicle.

It was diagnosed as the timing chain and tensioners. We asked for good will from Mercedes and they split the bill with us. The quoted full price was $1550. We added fluid changes for the differentials and transfer case while it was in. Work was performed at the dealer that sold it to us and where it was purchased originally. All service work was done at this dealership as well so there was a well documented history on the vehicle.

They also ended up giving us a 2016
GLS450 for about a week as well at no charge during the fix. I'd say I'm pretty happy with the outcome.

Now I just need to fix the RF air strut, rear level sensors (need a part number in these), and fix the mirror my wife smashed into the side of the garage and we'll be all set for another 1-2k miles 🤔

sak335

Hey Bigben97, thanks for posting. My 2012 GL just started this rattling noise at 54,500 miles, which is pretty disappointing. I've read some conflicting information, but the majority say that replacing the chain and guides 'fixed' the problem (I use quotes since it's difficult to tell if it just fixes it for another 50,000 miles or fixes it for good.) What I'm hoping to figure out is if they actually updated the parts since this seems like a fairly pervasive problem.

After reading several posts where MB denied any assistance whatsoever, it's interesting to also find people who said MB 'split' the cost with them. I'll do the work myself if that's the case, but I'll also sell the vehicle immediately after I do it because this frankly has been the most disappointing automotive purchase of my lifetime; it's disturbing how many major problems a so-called "bulletproof" engine has had in under 55,000 miles. And yes, the vehicle has been maintained 100% to the schedule, with 100% recommended/oem parts and fluids.

Also, I've heard that there is an MB equivalent "technical service bulletin" on this issue. Does anybody have the reference number? If not I'll call a friend who is an Indy MB mechanic and see if he can locate it for me.

alx

On chain and tensioner- if you let it clatter for a while you will need also sprockets. If you catch it early- only chain and tensioner.

sak335

Thanks Alx. I've only heard it four times and I'm driving my BMW until I get it fixed. I guess I'll order the chain and tensioner; I've read it's not a bad job.

Bigben97

Follow up to this about 9 months later the rattle is back. The Mercedes dealer we had fix it took it in and us working on it at no charge. So far they are saying it's a tensioner. Pretty much just want out of this car since the repairs are never ending. Between that fix and now I did the rear air suspension, fixed a couple oil leaks, air filters(wow those get dirty quick), and still had an oil leak remaining. I still think the oil leak was from their timing job.

The good news is Carmax offered us $4k more than the dealer. The bad news is that offer expires today and our repair isn't going to be done until next week.

fireman1073

yup

Bigben97

Verdict is in but we still don't have our GL back. Said stretched chain again. When I asked out the tensioners they said they were ok but couldn't answer how they knew.

They also said this would be a warranty fix but to have Mercedes warranty it for the next year I would need to pay 10% of what the bill would have been, in this case that would be $150.

Does that sound normal?

We opted out but I suppose I could still pay if I wanted. We have pretty much given up on it, plan to take our loss on it, and move on.

Anyone interested in a set of 18" OEM GL wheels with Nokian Haaka R's mounted and only used for 1 winter?

MB GL450 Owner

Has anyone heard of the timing chain jumping it’s tracks? My GL450 has that rattle on a cold start for a long time and the MB service center said it was nothing. Now I’m facing a major repair related to what they have said was the timing chain jumping it’s tracks. Any info would be appreciated.

sak335

If the timing chain "jumped it's tracks" the engine would cease to turn. The chain runs on sprockets that are attached to camshafts and the crankshaft. Perhaps they mean that the sprocket teeth have worn and the timing chain is slipping over the worn sprockets. Either way this could be fatal to the engine as the valves would start hitting the pistons if this is an interference engine. I would get them to clarify what they mean. As Alx mentions above, if you let a rattling chain go too long before repairing it, worn sprockets generally are the result which adds to the complexity of the job as well as the repair bill.

MB GL450 Owner

Thanks for the info. I will post again when I get a better explanation from the dealer.