Jmac26

2020 GLS 450 started making a thumping noise (not cracking or popping) from the driver side front axel when making sharp turns at slow speeds. Took it to the dealer a few weeks ago and they determined the axel shaft needed to be replaced. After installing the new axel shaft, the problem was not solved. They are now thinking it’s the from differential. Service advisor said it could be a month or so before the parts come in.

Has anyone had any similar issues? If so, what was the fix?

Vehicle currently has 48.5k miles. Service advisor said they would keep the ticket open until the issue is resolved being that I’m so close to being out of warranty.

W205C43PFL

What was written on the work order?

Jmac26

I don’t have the work order, but they tried a couple repair’s before fixing the issue. First they changed the axel shaft, then the front differential before finally figuring out that it was the transfer case.

jkaetz

They're just firing the parts cannon. If they're covering it under warranty I wouldn't worry about it. They'll eventually get it right. Little you can do about it.

W205C43PFL

Yup, this is correct. The dealership don't know what is the real cause and they are just throwing whatever and see what sticks (fixes the issue).

Jmac26

I do want to mention that the service writer gives regular updates on where my vehicle is in the process so no complaints there.

One interesting note: everything was covered under warranty, but since replacing the front diff didn’t fix the problem, they took the new part off and replaced it with the old one. I thought that was interesting.

W205C43PFL

That indeed is interesting, what was their reasoning?

Jmac26

That the part (front diff) was too expensive to just leave on.

jkaetz

I'm sure it was less to eat the labor cost and return/restock a good diff rather than eat the cost of the diff without getting reimbursed for it.

W205C43PFL

I see, so MB wasn't paying the bills, that was why.