GL 350 into limp home mode on freeway
background : was great til went to MB dealer auto service where they updated the software even though i told them only change oil and filters and adjust if needed @150000km . It then would not go into 7th til got to 125- 130km/h - after 4 return trips gave up and it eventually started going into 7th at 100 as before. At 185000 new turbo , pcv egr and after that this started but had ahppened once or twice before turbo.




Use a borescope and look through the spark plug holes for signs of cylinder scoring. Cylinder number 5 seems to be the main culprit but they will all do it. Search this forum for ‘M278 rebuild’.
I hope you find another problem other than this but it scares me when you say the ‘M’ word (misfire) when talking about a M278.




It used to be low contribution was caused by poor spark or fuel atomization hence the name "misfires".
dry-lubed.... scored cylinder
Now there's a modern addition to poor contribution. It's the high blow-by scored cylinder shown above slash fragmented or cracked pistons.
This is happening to "save gas" - Modern engines combine most advanced oils to dry lube oils at normal driving RPM. This works amazingly well until the last day.
There is an experimental 5mn trick to provide conventional cylinder oiling with approved MB oils.
Have a look here.....

Last edited by CaliBenzDriver; Apr 15, 2024 at 12:05 AM.
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In my case I was getting a "123900 - Boost Pressure is too low" code in Xentry and was a result of a damaged intercooler hose on the turbo side. Initially, I was not able to see any problems but noticed signs of diesel oil near and around the connection from the intercooler to intercooler hose that leads to the turbo muffler on the drivers side. Once I took the hose out (2 clips) I found the rubber hose had a tear at the connector. Seems to be a common issue based on research online.
Ordered the replacement hose, changed out in 10-15 mins. Everything is back to normal, no longer goes into limp mode.
Last edited by Mikey178; Apr 15, 2024 at 09:41 AM.
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In my case I was getting a "123900 - Boost Pressure is too low" code in Xentry and was a result of a damaged intercooler hose on the turbo side. Initially, I was not able to see any problems but noticed signs of diesel oil near and around the connection from the intercooler to intercooler hose that leads to the turbo muffler on the drivers side. Once I took the hose out (2 clips) I found the rubber hose had a tear at the connector. Seems to be a common issue based on research online.
Ordered the replacement hose, changed out in 10-15 mins. Everything is back to normal, no longer goes into limp mode.
replaced clips as well or ok to reuse?
can use show where on the engine this was located as I haven’t touched intercooler yet. Thanks!


Word of caution, I initially bought from FCP but the part they sent was shorter, they sent a replacement thinking it may have been a 1 off issue but it was still short. I don't think it is FCP's fault but they should remove it for the GL350 as its not accurate which is why I went with Rockauto.
You can remove yours to see if it's damaged or cracked anywhere and check for signs of oil splatter. In my case there was oil all on the water fluid reservoir neck. If your is in good shape without any signs of damage, your issue might be different.
Here is a picture of the hose in the engine bay (Drivers side, front). I moved the intake hose out of the way to see it better.



