2009 Mercedes-Benz GL: common problems and reliability
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has 29 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and service brakes. Owners most often flag air suspension failure — components like the pump and air springs fail, leading to expensive repairs (quoted at ~$5k minimum). frequency: very frequent.
Safety record for the 2009 model year
29
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
2
Crash reports
1
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
air bags
14
service brakes
5
engine
4
suspension
3
hydraulic
3
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year, engine choice, and ownership expectations. The X164 generation (pre-2013) is described as a "dinosaur" with a less refined driving experience but is noted for its non-turbo engine reliability. The facelif
Air suspension failure — Components like the pump and air springs fail, leading to expensive repairs (quoted at ~$5k minimum). Frequency: very frequent.
High maintenance and repair costs — Routine servicing, parts (e.g., brakes, tires), and repairs are significantly more expensive than mainstream brands; described as "flagship maintenance costs." Frequency: very frequent.
Electronic system failures — Flaky blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, infotainment issues, and power seat malfunctions. Frequency: recurrent.
Engine and transmission mount wear — Causes shuddering or vibration, especially at higher mileage (e.g., 80k+ miles). Frequency: recurrent.
Intake manifold issues (M272 V6) — Failure due to oil separator problems gumming up flaps; requires replacement. Frequency: recurrent for pre-2013 models.