2010 Mercedes-Benz GL: common problems and reliability

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL has 307 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and fuel/propulsion system. 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 2010 model year

307
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
14
Crash reports
3
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL vehicles (US, public record).

Is 2010 a good year for the GL?

Across the 5 GL model years we track, complaint volume runs from 2 (2006) to 307 (2010). With 307 complaints, the 2010 GL sits abovethe model's median of 163.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

air bags
179
fuel/propulsion system
27
service brakes
20
suspension
20
electrical system
14

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…

  • 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.

Owner insights cover all generations of the GL. See the full GL owner picture and every model year.

Other GL model years

Compare every GL year side by side to see how 2010 ranks against the rest.

Compare the GL against its rivals