S Naqvi

I have a 2017 GLS 450 with 89K. I just got the A service completed today and they informed me that I need a transmission fluid flush for $1300. It sounds really expensive, can I:
1. Not do it at all since I heard the transmission is sealed
2. Is it safe to go to a transmission shop like an AAMCO or somewhere similar?
or 3. Justify paying $1300.

Thanks,
Aliusa

BlownV8

Find an independent that will do the change.

chassis

There is no flush, but rather a drain and refill. It’s called “transmission service” in MB parlance.

1. no
2. no
3. yes, or
3a. have an Indy MB shop do it, or
4. DIY

S Naqvi

You're right, It is a "transmission service." I asked him to explain and maybe I added "like a flush you mean?" and he concurred.
So it's definitely needed. Got it! And I should get it done. TBH, I never went to AAMCO before! But I'll price out how much it'll cost at an independent MB shop.

Another question -- my radiator hose is separating. They want to charge $720 to fix that. Doesn't require just pushing the two sections together and tightening the clamp? (See picture).

Yeffsy

I've seen posts on how to change transmission fluid in the past. To help you out I was trying to find one.

This one (https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...013-gl450.html) references https://www.fcpeuro.com/. I don't know anything about the company, but when I looked up the transmission service kit for my 2015 GL350 there was a link to a how-to video.

I hope this helps.

Jeff

chassis

Underhood plastics age and deteriorate. MB in particular has a reputation for using earth-friendly plastics which means they disintegrate over time.

I would replace the plastic fitting and both of the hoses connected to it. It looks like the bottom radiator hose, one that you don’t want to have problems.

S Naqvi

The tech mentioned only replacing one of the hoses. But is $720 reasonable for this job?

chassis

Sounds like $150-$200 for parts and around $250/hr or so for labor. Roughly in the ballpark, a bit high maybe.