dwpc

C300 Cabriolet guy here. I'm in OR and my son in CO is looking at a loaded '08 GL550 with 110K miles. He is not very car savvy. I'd appreciate input on reliability and things to look out for in that model that I could pass on to him. It's being sold by an indie used car lot so history is unknown. In the pics it looks excellent. Thanks.

chassis

An X164 GL550 is not the easiest vehicle to own for someone who is not car savvy. A solution for lack of savviness is a willingness to pay a mechanic to repair the vehicle. It's an option for some people.

Unknown history is concerning. Purchase a carfax at minimum. Consider paying another independent shop for a prepurchase inspection.

List of well documented items on this site:

- GLs eat tires, particularly rear tires. This is because of the large amount of rear camber and toe specified by M-B.
- Check for leaking taillamp gaskets and leaking rear glass. Expensive electrical problems can result. Check in general for signs of moisture or dampness.
- M273 idler gear issues, the search button will bring you the information
- Air suspension can be problematic

Max Blast

Go pay to have that car undergo a Prepurchase Inspection at a nearby MB dealer - best $350 you’ll ever spend.

sit down when you get the repair estimate.
it’ll blow your socks off.

But then; factor in that only half of that hefty bill really needs done and; that it can be done for 60-80% of the cost at a good inpependent place.

altrnately post it up here and we’ll tell you what to prioritize first...

good luck.

chassis

Updated the list of things to watch out for, adding the M273 idler gear.

Max Blast

Not a factor in 2008, only for some 2007s.

not2fast

If your son is not car savvy I would stick with a Toyota/Honda product.