Advisory: Possible fake/defective service parts (oil drain plug)
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Joined: Dec 2021
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From: Florida
2021 GLS 450
Advisory: Possible fake/defective service parts (oil drain plug)
I did 1st oil change on GLS450 about one year ago. No leaking was noted, as assembled from factory. Replaced the drain plug with a new part purchased online and this new drain plug leaked slightly. Left small spots in garage and leaked/burned about 1 quart over the course of 1 year and about 5,000 miles.
Pics top to bottom and left to right: 1) The original drain plug with MB part number and casting sundial (?), 2) replacement part with MB part number, but no casting sundial, 3) 2nd replacement part. It appears to me that the original and the 2nd replacement parts have thicker O-rings, and conclusion is that the middle part leaked due to incorrect O-ring. Fake part? Just plain old bad quality?
I suppose this info could apply to a number of MB vehicles. I do not know which ones use this plastic screw with O-ring. If I can track down the vendor info for the middle part, I can update.
