The Mercedes Benz GL450, a vehicle synonymous with luxury and performance, is often sought after for its spaciousness and premium features. However, for some owners, the reality of owning a GL450, particularly older models like the 2008 Mercedes Benz Gl450, can be a far cry from the expected prestige. This is the account of one such owner, whose experience with a 2008 GL450 purchased from a reputable dealership quickly devolved into a saga of recurring problems and mounting expenses.
Air Suspension System Failures: A Recurring Nightmare
One of the most prominent issues plaguing this particular 2008 GL450 was the air suspension system. The owner reported experiencing failures in nearly every air shock, requiring replacements across the board. Adding insult to injury, the air compressor also gave out, necessitating further repairs. While these issues were addressed by the Mercedes Benz dealer, the sheer number of failures in a relatively short period points to a significant and potentially systemic weakness in the air suspension of this model year.
Steering and Leakage Problems: Adding to the Burden
Beyond the suspension woes, this 2008 GL450 owner faced problems with the steering system. A leaking steering rack demanded replacement, a repair that is both labor-intensive and costly. Furthermore, leaks from the cam plugs were also encountered, adding another layer of mechanical headaches and expenses to the ownership experience. These issues suggest potential concerns with the durability and sealing of critical components in the 2008 GL450.
Electrical System Gremlins and Battery Issues
Electrical problems further compounded the owner’s dissatisfaction. Replacing the battery, a routine maintenance task in most vehicles, turned into an ordeal due to extensive corrosion. The owner, an aviation mechanic by profession, found it exceptionally challenging to even disconnect the negative battery lead without risking damage, highlighting the severity of the corrosion issue. Adding to the electrical system woes, the driver’s seat heater exhibited intermittent functionality and, alarmingly, emitted a burning smell when malfunctioning. The dealer quoted a substantial sum for seat replacement, while frequent headlight bulb failures added to the list of minor yet irritating electrical problems.
Additional Disappointments: Throttle Response, Interior and More
Beyond the major mechanical and electrical faults, the owner also expressed frustration with the vehicle’s throttle response, describing it as sluggish due to the drive-by-wire system. This delay in acceleration could be a safety concern in situations requiring quick maneuvering. Interior issues included a malfunctioning rear DVD player and a third-row seat that refused to lock into position, both of which, while fixed by the dealer, contributed to the overall negative ownership experience. Peeling window moldings, a common cosmetic issue in some older vehicles, also detracted from the vehicle’s appearance, with replacements by the dealer proving to be only temporary solutions as the peeling recurred. Finally, the owner lamented the high cost and short lifespan of tires for the factory wheels, adding to the already considerable running costs.
Dealer’s Dismissive Attitude: The Final Straw
Perhaps the most disheartening aspect of this owner’s experience was the dismissive attitude encountered at a Mercedes Benz dealership. Being told that a vehicle with just over 100,000 miles was considered “old” for a Mercedes Benz, especially in an era where many vehicles are engineered for much greater longevity, was perceived as unacceptable. This sentiment, coupled with the litany of problems experienced with a vehicle purchased as a premium product, led the owner to declare this 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450 as their last Mercedes Benz, expressing profound disappointment and frustration with the vehicle’s reliability and the brand’s perceived lack of support for older models.
This detailed account serves as a stark reminder that even vehicles from prestigious brands like Mercedes Benz can be susceptible to significant reliability issues, particularly as they age. Prospective buyers considering a used 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450 should be aware of the potential for costly repairs, especially concerning the air suspension, steering, and electrical systems, and should conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections and research to mitigate the risk of encountering similar frustrations.
