Purchasing a luxury SUV like the 2008 Mercedes Benz Gl450 often comes with high expectations of performance, reliability, and a premium driving experience. However, for one owner, their journey with a used 2008 GL450, acquired from Santa Monica Mercedes Benz with only 32,000 miles, turned into a saga of relentless problems and escalating costs. Within just two years and after reaching 106,000 miles, the vehicle became a source of significant frustration, financial strain, and even vacation disruption, painting a starkly different picture of Mercedes-Benz ownership.
Persistent Air Suspension and Compressor Failures
One of the most prominent issues encountered was the repeated failure of the air suspension system. Despite the dealer addressing multiple air shock replacements and a compressor failure, the recurring nature of these problems became a major concern. This highlights potential weaknesses in the air suspension components of the 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450, leading to ongoing maintenance and expense for the owner.
Steering and Mechanical System Deficiencies
Beyond the suspension, the GL450 presented further mechanical challenges. A leaking steering rack necessitated replacement, adding to the growing list of repairs. Cam plug issues also surfaced, indicating potential oil leaks and further maintenance needs. Even a seemingly simple task like battery replacement was complicated by severe corrosion, with the dealer quoting a substantial price for a replacement, citing corrosion issues. The owner, an aviation mechanic, experienced difficulty even removing the negative battery lead, pointing to design or corrosion-related challenges in battery maintenance for the 2008 GL450.
Drive-by-Wire Throttle Lag and Performance Concerns
Performance disappointments extended to the vehicle’s drive-by-wire throttle system. The owner described a noticeable lag in throttle response, particularly in urgent situations requiring quick acceleration. This delay in power delivery raises concerns about the responsiveness and overall driving dynamics of the 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450, especially in scenarios demanding immediate engine response.
Interior and Accessory Malfunctions
Interior and accessory issues further compounded the owner’s dissatisfaction. The rear DVD player malfunctioned and required dealer intervention. The third-row seat locking mechanism also failed, necessitating repair. The driver’s seat heater exhibited intermittent operation, sometimes accompanied by a burning smell, raising safety concerns and leading to a costly dealer quote for replacement. These interior and accessory problems detract from the expected luxury and convenience of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
Exterior Trim and Component Durability
Exterior durability also fell short of expectations. Window moldings suffered from peeling, with replacements by the dealer proving temporary as the peeling recurred. Additionally, the owner noted the high cost and short lifespan of tires for the factory wheels, adding to the overall expense of maintaining the 2008 GL450. Frequent headlight bulb replacements further contributed to the perception of poor component longevity.
Questionable Longevity and High Mileage Perception
Adding insult to injury, a Mercedes-Benz dealer reportedly characterized the vehicle as “old” and having “a lot” of miles at just over 100,000 miles and barely five years old. This perspective clashes sharply with modern vehicle longevity expectations, particularly for a vehicle originally priced as a luxury model. The owner rightly contrasted this experience with the renowned durability of brands like Honda and Toyota, which often reach and exceed 100,000 miles with fewer major issues.
Conclusion: A Disappointing Ownership Experience
In conclusion, this owner’s experience with their 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450 paints a picture of significant unreliability and high maintenance burdens. From recurring air suspension failures to a range of mechanical, electrical, and interior problems, the vehicle proved to be a constant source of frustration and expense. The perceived short lifespan and high maintenance costs, even at moderate mileage for modern standards, led the owner to vow that this would be their last Mercedes-Benz. This account serves as a cautionary tale for potential buyers considering a used 2008 Mercedes Benz GL450, highlighting potential reliability concerns and the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspection and research.
