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

2009 GL450 Malfunction message

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Old Feb 18, 2017 | 12:03 PM
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2009 GL 450
2009 GL450 Malfunction message

My GL450 is displaying a malfunction message...

My friend scanned my GL450,and it show two codes which is 5503 and 5508,but he doesn't know what the problem is... ( He's not a MB mechanic)


Any suggestion how to fix this problem ?
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Old Feb 18, 2017 | 12:31 PM
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2001 SLK 230, 2007 GL 450
5503 and 5508 should be related to the airmatic system (the air suspension).
I believe, but someone correct me if I am wrong, that the 5503 is the airmatic pump taking too long to come to pressure/fill system. Not sure on the exact code on the 5508.
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Old Feb 18, 2017 | 01:08 PM
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2009 GL 450
Hi Mr.Chris ,
Thanks for your response.

Do you know what part do I need to fix it?

Unfortunately, I don't have any knowledge of car...
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Old Feb 18, 2017 | 01:25 PM
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2001 SLK 230, 2007 GL 450
It could be any of quite a few parts. It could be a failing airmatic pump, any of of the many airmatic lines, the valve/distribution block, a leaking strut.... You could throw a lot of parts and money at it and maybe not fix it. This is one of those things that without the knowledge and ability to test each component in the airmatics, were it would be best to find a good independent shop to diagnose.

If I am correct about the code it's basically saying it took too long to pressurize the system. If one corner of the car is lower than the rest first thing in the morning then it is likely a leaking strut or the line that feeds that strut. If the whole car is low in the morning then there is a leak in a common part of the system.

A simplified explanation of the system is that there are 4 air-struts or air-shocks, one at each wheel just like a regular car has shocks. There are high pressure air lines connecting each of those air-struts to a distribution block that acts like a valve assembly to feed air to each of the struts as they need it. Then there is a pump/air compressor inside the front bumper that supplies the air pressure to fill the air struts.

While not a super complex system it is rather unique to MB. The code your car is giving isn't a simple "replace this part" its a more vague code that could be cause by any one of a number of parts or even a combination of several parts not working quite right.
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Old Feb 19, 2017 | 10:14 PM
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Mercedes Benz 2007 GL450 , 2012 BMW 528i
It is most likely airmatic pump but make sure to check for leaks first. Spraying soapy water and looking for bubbles might help. But make sure that pump is pumping during this test. Try your best to diagnose before replacing anything. If you are not handy, have dealer or a good independent mechanic do the diagnostic work. An aftermarket pump would be around 350-650. People swear by Arnott.
Also check this thread
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...ml#post6065184
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Old Feb 19, 2017 | 11:11 PM
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gl450 530i
have someone with Star diagnose it will have this solved in 5 mins
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Old Feb 20, 2017 | 06:42 PM
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2009 GL 450
Thank you for all replies.

I wish I could buy a dinner who response my post.

I have one more question.

If it is leaking do I need to replace the pump? and what about compressor?

Thank you for your all responses again.


Best regards,


Jesse
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