Photo: IFCAR / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
2012 Mercedes-Benz GL: common problems and reliability
One of the weaker GL years.
78 owner complaints, most about air bags. No recalls.
Should I buy a 2012 GL?The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL has 78 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and service brakes.
Safety record for the 2012 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other GL years only. How we score it
Is 2012 a good year for the GL?
Across the 10 GL model years we track, complaint volume runs from 20 (2016) to 123 (2007). With 78 complaints, the 2012 GL sits above the model's median of 66.
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
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.
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 2012 ranks against the rest.
Compare the GL against its rivals
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