Bullring4978

I am looking into a GL/GLS Bluetec. I have many Ford diesels and we are a diesel family. I just found out that these came in diesel. I wondered what years I should be looking for if I were to get the most reliable engine. Is the engine worth it? I also do some mechanical work on my cars.
what is the difference between the 164 and 166? Is it just the year or model difference? What years should I avoid? I live on a farm and have a dirt road to get to my house. Is the sport package something I should look at? When did they stop putting the diesels in the GLs? Thanks for your time.

kajtek1

You are talking about X166, what is bigger body.
The OM642 engine was in production for over 20 years, having more than dozen different tunes and proved itself to be real workhorse.
Not the cheapest to maintain in MB diesel family as common oil cooler seals require about 20 hr to replace, but they keep on running.....

Bullring4978

So is there a year I should be looking at, say 2014 and newer?

TripleDown

Read up on the MB Diesel emissions settlement . You want a vehicle that has already had the work done as you will get $10k worth of emissions and exhaust gear replaced for free, and a warranty to boot.

Newer will be better in any case as the motor got more power as the years went on.

Bullring4978

Thank you, that is useful information

kajtek1

I was researching GL for the buy, but ended up buying Land Rover. Not too many GL come with rear AC and I need that in white car.
Anyway, from what I check, in 2015 the Bluetec got new tune with few more ponies, what is not big deal, but worth to consider.
New tune usually also come with better mpg.
Than check for AEM extended warranty. It applies till 2015 models.

MGL350

I have owned 2 GL350s, a 2010 that my insurance totaled due to an accident at 190K miles and currently a 2015 with 137K miles now.

Other than looks (to me anyway), X166 is better than X164 as follows:

1. Power fold-n-tumble 2nd row seats for easier 3rd row entry/exit
2. More MPG: 26 vs 23
3. Easier to refill DEF: Behind fuel fill door vs under trunk floor
4. More HP: 255 vs 201
5. More LB-FT: 457 vs 400
6. Marginally bigger overall
7. Smoother ride & better handling
8. Having a spare tire
9. Easier (but more expensive) Front Air Strut Replacement
10. No more Oil Cooler Leaks

I'm sure there are more reasons but these are top for me.

Bullring4978

Excellent. Sounds like you are happy with owning the 2015 and would recommend.

MGL350

Yes.


I was very pleased with the 2010 as well.

captivabenz

I am the original owner of a 14 GL 350, with now 102,000 mi. It has been a wonderful car, smooth riding, reliable, and solid. Has had AEM done and air shock system replaced. South east location, no salt/snow.
As soon as my Volvo EX 90 EV arrives (1-2 months), it will be available for purchase (for hopefully a diesel loving individual)
The forum has always leaned toward negative experiences, hopefully a positive one will be refreshing.