mercedes gl350 problems Page 261

Shopping a Mercedes GL350? Lovely cruiser, but once the warranty’s a speck in the rear-view, a few gremlins like to introduce themselves.

• Airmatic air suspension leaks or tired compressors causing the classic nose-up, bum-down stance.
• OM642 V6 diesel oil cooler seal leaks (tell-tale oil in the V of the engine).
• Intake swirl flap motor/linkages failure leading to limp mode and rough running.
• EGR valve and DPF clogging, especially with lots of short trips.
• AdBlue/DEF system tantrums: NOx sensors and SCR catalyst efficiency warnings.
• 7G-Tronic harsh shifts or limp mode from conductor plate/valve body issues if fluid changes were missed.
• Electrical niggles: parking sensors, tailgate, COMAND infotainment gremlins.

Budget accordingly: Airmatic fixes can be in the low thousands AUD, and emissions bits aren’t exactly pocket change. Get a thorough pre-purchase inspection, service history, and a long test drive—your patience and wallet will thank you.