Engine choices for a GL
12-10-2020, 07:02 PM
#1
Engine choices for a GL
Hello, I recently got my wife an ML 350 (2011) a couple months ago, and she loves it. I'm currently driving a Suburban, and want to switch to a GL now. I'm trying to locate the model that has the most reliable engine....specifically between GL 450, GL 550, and GL 63 AMG. Looking for years around 2011-2015.
Are there any reviews out there, or on this site about which of these engines is the most reliable? This is the wife's first car that does NOT have a warranty, and if/when I get a GL and something goes wrong, I don't an "I told you so".....or at least reduce the amount of times that I may hear that, lol.
Thanks, any help/info is appreciated!
Are there any reviews out there, or on this site about which of these engines is the most reliable? This is the wife's first car that does NOT have a warranty, and if/when I get a GL and something goes wrong, I don't an "I told you so".....or at least reduce the amount of times that I may hear that, lol.
Thanks, any help/info is appreciated!
12-10-2020, 08:36 PM
#2
Super Member
There wasn't a X164 GL63, so for the purposes of this forum section you're limited to a 450 or 550. I've got a 550 and like the extra power, but I don't think there is any significant difference between them other than displacement - they're fundamentally the same engine. Mine came apart under warranty at about 50K miles for coolant loss due to some kind of leak in the head. Otherwise, the engine has been relatively problem-free other than consumables wearing out (starter, cam sensors, A/C compressor) at higher mileages. A W166 ML63 is on my radar as a possible eventual replacement, and I don't know much about them, but apparently oil leaks that wick down the wiring harness are a not uncommon problem. I don't know if it is easily detectable/fixable before it becomes a big problem, but I'd look into it more before buying one because fixing it once it becomes an issue is very expensive.
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andegre (12-10-2020)
12-10-2020, 08:48 PM
#3
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2017 GLE350 4MATIC
If you can stretch one year and get an X166, you get a proven platform and a newer vehicle.
X166 engines are the M276 3.0L V6 twin turbo, the M278 4.7L V8 twin turbo or the M157 5.5L V8 twin turbo. Of these, the M276 3.0L V6 seems to be the most reliable, and has the lowest power output.
X166 engines are the M276 3.0L V6 twin turbo, the M278 4.7L V8 twin turbo or the M157 5.5L V8 twin turbo. Of these, the M276 3.0L V6 seems to be the most reliable, and has the lowest power output.
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andegre (12-10-2020)
12-11-2020, 02:36 AM
#4
MBWorld Fanatic!
Super complex stuff in the x166 comparatively to the x164... your question spans both of these model designations.
but for economy, realized depreciation that you don’t have to pay and ease of maintenance I wholehearted recommend the 2008-2012 M273 - 450 or 550 doesn’t really matter as long as you have a maintenance record.
but for economy, realized depreciation that you don’t have to pay and ease of maintenance I wholehearted recommend the 2008-2012 M273 - 450 or 550 doesn’t really matter as long as you have a maintenance record.
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andegre (12-11-2020)
