Hi all,
I'm looking to get into a GL550 (I would consider the 450, but I like the cooled seats)
Right now my choices i'm looking at 3 that fall into my price range... Just curious what different recommendations you have based on price, miles and year.

1. 2008 GL550 with 125,000 ~ $8,500
2. 2011 GL550 with 160,000 ~ $9,000
3. 2009 GL550 with 203,000 ~ $6,000 (1 owner with great Carfax)

Any other thoughts are welcome!

Thanks

 

I wold pass the 2008 model, from 2007 to 2008 this was the first produced and has many electrical issues and some of it has a problem with the timing chain guide gear. If the 2009 has all the maintenance documented, this seems to be a good choice.

 

Agreed

 

Depends on if the 2008 had the updated balance shaft. Check the 2008 and, if it is updated, go with that one.

Mercedes-Benz with the improved parts have engine serial numbers that are higher than:

• M272 Engine Serial No. 2729..30 468993
• M273 Engine Serial No. 2739..30 088611

 

The 08s and up are usually not affected by the idler gear issue but you’ll have to check the engine number.

if that 08 has a solid maintenance record (or all airmatic bags have been replaced at least once) and no water intrusion I’d go for that one.

the with the mileage on the 09 you’re getting into trans/conductor plate replacement territory; and the 11 isn’t that far behind or a much better car.

bottom line, get rhe one with the best record of documented maintenance.

 

do we know if this issue was limited to the 4.7 l (m273 e47) or also apparent in the 5.5 l (m273 e55)?

 

The E55 never used that engine. It uses the M113 and M113k.

 

Different E55; no relation. Internal designation of the m273 4.7 l is e47, the 5.5 l - E55.

 

M273 is an evolution/updated gen of M113 so basically the same motor design and architecture thus reliability.

 

Prepare to replace the entire Airmatic system. Front struts, rear bags, compressor and valve block. Might as well do it all at once right after you buy it so you won't have to worry about it (or break down someplace) for the next 7 years or so.

The next weak link is the transmission at those miles. If the fluid service was done every 40k miles as required you'll have a better chance.

I like the 2011 as it's the newest of all 3, if it's been maintained.

 

2011 GL550 is great as mentioned replaced all suspension air bags and you will have a great SUV. and do you regular oil changes etc,,

 

Yes and no. The M273 had a bad parts batch that caused issues with the balance shaft gears.

Not sure why you would need to replace the valve block. I have over 250k on my original valve block and it's a 2007. Never had an issue with it.