Intro and Looking into a GL350
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 130
Likes: 20
From: Alberta, Canada
GL350, C43 Wagon, 911 C2S
Intro and Looking into a GL350
Hello All,
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
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From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
If you want something dependable, stay away from the diesel. Way too much information to regurgitate so please use the forum search feature. Try OM642 engine failure, OM642 problems, or just OM642. You can also check the diesel forum for additional information. There is an extended warranty on diesel engines as forced by a lawsuit/EPA. If you can find one that is running and keep it running until it gets the emissions update, probably not too bad to own short term while you have a warranty. If you don't tow or absolutely need the diesel, most would tell you to stay away.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,055
Likes: 355
From: USA - Minnesota
2014 GL350
If you want something dependable, stay away from the diesel. Way too much information to regurgitate so please use the forum search feature. Try OM642 engine failure, OM642 problems, or just OM642. You can also check the diesel forum for additional information. There is an extended warranty on diesel engines as forced by a lawsuit/EPA. If you can find one that is running and keep it running until it gets the emissions update, probably not too bad to own short term while you have a warranty. If you don't tow or absolutely need the diesel, most would tell you to stay away.
Take all this with a grain of salt.
FWIW, I’ve had the opposite experience with my GL350 and now have a warranty that will take it to the 11 year mark. LOL. Best. Value. Ever. (And yes, I got VERY lucky with my timing for both getting a late model diesel GL with the later running changes and the EPA/DOJ/Class Action settlement.)
And it’s not just the diesel X166 with potential “issues.” It turns out that the cost of fixing the problems with the emissions accessories on the OM642 is far cheaper than replacing a MB gas V8.
But yes, I’d only consider a used GL350 if it:
A) Had all the maintenance records, including shorter than spec oil changes. 10K miles is just too long.
B) The AEM (in the USA)
Last edited by cadetdrivr; Dec 28, 2021 at 11:50 AM.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,694
Likes: 4,584
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
If you want something dependable, stay away from the diesel. Way too much information to regurgitate so please use the forum search feature. Try OM642 engine failure, OM642 problems, or just OM642. You can also check the diesel forum for additional information. There is an extended warranty on diesel engines as forced by a lawsuit/EPA. If you can find one that is running and keep it running until it gets the emissions update, probably not too bad to own short term while you have a warranty. If you don't tow or absolutely need the diesel, most would tell you to stay away.
This should be well-heeded and is solid advice from one of the most reliable posters on this site.
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Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 1,570
Likes: 475
From: Scottsdale, Arizona
2001 E55AMG
Hello All,
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
Both SUV's are so close I think it is going to come down to avilabbitly at the moment as to which would be the better purchase. What about a 90's Mercedes wagon with the jump seats in the trunk
Audi Q7
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/invent...318238054/NONE
Mercedes GL 350
https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...ckType=listing
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 733
Likes: 298
From: New Orleans
2014 GL450, 1992 W140 300SD, 1993 W140 300SE, 1987 E30 Convertible
Very obvious choice - AluSil engines on gasoline lasting may be 150k or cast iron diesel lasting 300k miles.
Just sold another project with OM642 and no issues month ago with 210k miles on it. No need to sell, more like a favor.
Just sold another project with OM642 and no issues month ago with 210k miles on it. No need to sell, more like a favor.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 8,882
Likes: 1,214
From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
One of my gasser GL's next milestone will be 300k miles. So much for that theory.
In all transparency, the bores on my gasser GL are perfect and the engine uses no oil between changes but the timing chain system does need to be replaced due to a faulty part from an MB supplier. It is cheaper and makes more sense to install a new engine if I were keeping the vehicle. For the cost of a timing chain job, the engine could keep running for hundreds of thousands of miles since the vehicle has been maintained properly with the right oil and 10k mile oil change intervals. There is a plentiful supply of cheap gas engines from wrecked GL's. Try to find running diesel engines in good shape for under $7k. Finally, my GL450 has been the cheapest MB vehicle to operate I've ever owned.
In all transparency, the bores on my gasser GL are perfect and the engine uses no oil between changes but the timing chain system does need to be replaced due to a faulty part from an MB supplier. It is cheaper and makes more sense to install a new engine if I were keeping the vehicle. For the cost of a timing chain job, the engine could keep running for hundreds of thousands of miles since the vehicle has been maintained properly with the right oil and 10k mile oil change intervals. There is a plentiful supply of cheap gas engines from wrecked GL's. Try to find running diesel engines in good shape for under $7k. Finally, my GL450 has been the cheapest MB vehicle to operate I've ever owned.
Last edited by BlownV8; Dec 28, 2021 at 05:57 PM.
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Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 130
Likes: 20
From: Alberta, Canada
GL350, C43 Wagon, 911 C2S
Thank you everyone for your input. I'll definitely need to do some more reading in the diesel sub-forum. I only found it after posting here first.
As mentioned in my original post I've been around the VAG world for a long time and had one of their most "unreliable" cars for almost 15 years. I just recently sold my '06 V8 Touareg with over 210k kms before picking up the Cayenne and it was the most reliable car i have owned in my life. Point is, with proper maintenance most of these modern cars can go a long way without significant issues, especially if you're aware of what to keep an eye out for be proactive with certain repairs. Which is the point of reaching out to the community here.
The other thing i should mention is that up in Alberta, Canada so the diesel is particularly appealing because we do a fair amount of highway driving. Also, I'm not sure how that would affect the warranty pricing.
I think i will start looking at the 450s as well though given the feedback so far.
@cadetdrivr what do you mean by "late model diesel GL with the later running changes"? Can you elaborate please?
As mentioned in my original post I've been around the VAG world for a long time and had one of their most "unreliable" cars for almost 15 years. I just recently sold my '06 V8 Touareg with over 210k kms before picking up the Cayenne and it was the most reliable car i have owned in my life. Point is, with proper maintenance most of these modern cars can go a long way without significant issues, especially if you're aware of what to keep an eye out for be proactive with certain repairs. Which is the point of reaching out to the community here.
The other thing i should mention is that up in Alberta, Canada so the diesel is particularly appealing because we do a fair amount of highway driving. Also, I'm not sure how that would affect the warranty pricing.
I think i will start looking at the 450s as well though given the feedback so far.
@cadetdrivr what do you mean by "late model diesel GL with the later running changes"? Can you elaborate please?
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,055
Likes: 355
From: USA - Minnesota
2014 GL350
@cadetdrivr what do you mean by "late model diesel GL with the later running changes"? Can you elaborate please?
The OM642 engine itself is quite reliable so the majority of issues are related to, or caused by, the attached diesel emissions equipment. Just like any engine, it requires routine TLC but it also seems more susceptible to sludging when oil change intervals are ignored or non-spec oils are used. FWIW, in the USA we have an emissions related settlement that provides upgraded hardware, an extended warranty, and a cash payout. You’ll find many posts from Canadian members that have removed the offending hardware and reprogrammed the ECU.
Online forums are often not representative because it’s the folks with problems who post. One would think that the sky is falling but I’ve have relatively pain-free experience with the GL350 as it approaches its 8th birthday. Perhaps we’ve just been lucky, but we also live in Minnesota which has extreme seasons, biofuel blends, and my wife makes lots of short trips to work and the kid’s school. On paper, it should be an ugly combination.
However, with the new warranty I’ll plan on keeping it through its 11th birthday and then re-assess.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 130
Likes: 20
From: Alberta, Canada
GL350, C43 Wagon, 911 C2S
So when was this cut-off? Am I safe if I go with 2015+?
And yeah, you're spot on about the forums not being representative of issues, few people flock to a forum to say how awesome and reliable their car has been. But conversely it makes it a great resource for fixing issues owners may encounter.
@Highline-Autos how would the warranty work if I'm up in Canada?
And yeah, you're spot on about the forums not being representative of issues, few people flock to a forum to say how awesome and reliable their car has been. But conversely it makes it a great resource for fixing issues owners may encounter.
@Highline-Autos how would the warranty work if I'm up in Canada?
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Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 1,570
Likes: 475
From: Scottsdale, Arizona
2001 E55AMG
So when was this cut-off? Am I safe if I go with 2015+?
And yeah, you're spot on about the forums not being representative of issues, few people flock to a forum to say how awesome and reliable their car has been. But conversely it makes it a great resource for fixing issues owners may encounter.
@Highline-Autos how would the warranty work if I'm up in Canada?
And yeah, you're spot on about the forums not being representative of issues, few people flock to a forum to say how awesome and reliable their car has been. But conversely it makes it a great resource for fixing issues owners may encounter.
@Highline-Autos how would the warranty work if I'm up in Canada?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 130
Likes: 20
From: Alberta, Canada
GL350, C43 Wagon, 911 C2S
SPONSOR
Joined: Apr 2021
Posts: 1,570
Likes: 475
From: Scottsdale, Arizona
2001 E55AMG
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,055
Likes: 355
From: USA - Minnesota
2014 GL350
Yes
I don’t recall the exact year offhand but I think it was around 2010 when MB changed from the original (orange) seals/gaskets to the newer (purple) viton ones. The most notorious failure involved the oil cooler —-there were lots and lots of posts about it back in the day.
I don’t recall the exact year offhand but I think it was around 2010 when MB changed from the original (orange) seals/gaskets to the newer (purple) viton ones. The most notorious failure involved the oil cooler —-there were lots and lots of posts about it back in the day.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 130
Likes: 20
From: Alberta, Canada
GL350, C43 Wagon, 911 C2S
Ahh ok, thanks for that. I guess I should have been more specific in my original post. My intent was only to look at 2016 or maybe 2015 model years. Given that I assume that most of the issues would be resolved. Obviously again keeping in mind proper maintenance and correct oil usage etc.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 380
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From: Illinois
2019 Audi Q8, 2015 GL63, & 2005 E500W4
Hello All,
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
I'm looking at potentially at picking up a GL350 in the next few months. Starting the search early as i probably need to get into something my March or April. I'm completely foreign to the MB scene but have spent many years in the VAG family, starting with VW, Audi and now Porsche. Currently have a '16 Cayenne Diesel that I really enjoy but the "problem" is that it doesn't have a 3rd row for the twins that we just found out we were having. Initially i thought I might be able to get by with 3 seats a across the back in the Cayenne I'm starting to realize that's probably just an exercise in self punishment.
MY wife and i have agreed that minivans are out of the question and I'd like to stay in the German family (and no the X7 isn't on my list for many reasons) so after some thought I've narrowed it down to either a Q7 TDI or a GL350.
I've been doing some reading here and it's seems that rather than the obvious used car stuff (timely maintenance, correct oil, etc.) to look out for the main things are:
-oil cooler
-DEF
-MAF
Anything else i should be aware you of?
Thanks in advance!
