Is the Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 (2006-2012) reliable in Australia?

This generation is summarized with a trust score of 65 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.

Which Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 configuration should I buy used?

GL320 CDI (OM642 V6 Diesel) with 7G-Tronic Automatic: Strong torque and reasonable fuel economy for its class Generally robust engine block and common parts availability

Which Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 configurations should I avoid?

GL350 (M272 V6 Petrol) or GL450/GL500 (M273 V8 Petrol) with 7G-Tronic Automatic (especially 2006-2007 models): Balance shaft wear on M272/M273 engines leading to significant timing issues and potential catastrophic engine damage, requiring extremely costly repairs Early 7G-Tronic automatic transmission valve body and conductor plate failures

What should I inspect on a used Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006?

Airmatic air suspension compressor and strut failures, leading to ride height issues and expensive repairs Oil cooler leaks on OM642 diesel engines, requiring gasket replacement Swirl flap motor failure on OM642 diesel engines, causing reduced performance and check engine lights Electronic issues including COMAND system malfunctions, various sensor failures, and dashboard warning lights

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REPORT: MERCEDES BENZ > GLS CLASS > MODEL YEAR 2006 (2006-2012)

Used car reliability snapshot for Australia: Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 (2006-2012). Compare recommended configurations, known weak points, and inspection priorities before you buy.

Vehicle background from retrieved sources

The X164 GL-Class (later renamed GLS) was Mercedes-Benz's first full-size, three-row luxury SUV, positioned above the M-Class. It offered substantial interior space, luxury amenities, and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, aiming for a blend of on-road comfort and light off-road capability.

Generation / series codes: X164

Body styles: SUV (7-seater)

Drivetrains: All-wheel drive (4MATIC)

Information is based on well-documented common issues for the Mercedes-Benz X164 GL-Class generation, particularly concerning engine and suspension reliability for the specified model year.

Trust score: 65 / 100

Verdict: CAUTION

RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATIONS (THE 'BUY' LIST)

GL320 CDI (OM642 V6 Diesel) with 7G-Tronic Automatic
- Strong torque and reasonable fuel economy for its class
- Generally robust engine block and common parts availability
- Less prone to catastrophic engine failures compared to early petrol V6/V8s

CONFIGURATIONS TO AVOID (THE 'LEMON' LIST)

GL350 (M272 V6 Petrol) or GL450/GL500 (M273 V8 Petrol) with 7G-Tronic Automatic (especially 2006-2007 models)
- Balance shaft wear on M272/M273 engines leading to significant timing issues and potential catastrophic engine damage, requiring extremely costly repairs
- Early 7G-Tronic automatic transmission valve body and conductor plate failures

Used car buyer guide (Australia)

Common problems & platform risks

For the Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 (2006-2012), recurring issues often cluster around specific engines, transmissions, and shared chassis electronics. The trust score reflects how often serious powertrain or drivetrain problems show up in real-world reports versus routine maintenance. Always verify with a pre-purchase inspection and service history.

What to inspect before you buy

Use the platform-wide inspection list above for leaks, rust, suspension wear, and electronics. On a test drive, listen for drivetrain noises, check transmission behaviour when hot, and scan for warning lights. In Australia, heat and urban short trips can accelerate wear—factor in climate-appropriate servicing.

Best engine or trim to target

A typical starting point is configurations similar to: GL320 CDI (OM642 V6 Diesel) with 7G-Tronic Automatic. Cross-check against the recommended list and your budget; the "sweet spot" often balances fewer reported failures with parts availability.

Configurations to be cautious about

Sources frequently flag higher risk around: GL350 (M272 V6 Petrol) or GL450/GL500 (M273 V8 Petrol) with 7G-Tronic Automatic (especially 2006-2007 models). That does not mean every car fails—use it as a prioritisation list for inspection and price negotiation.

Ownership cost signals

Higher reported failure rates usually mean more workshop time and parts cost. Before buying, get quotes for common jobs on this generation (timing, fluids, suspension, transmission service) from an independent specialist familiar with the brand.

PLATFORM-WIDE QUIRKS & INSPECTION POINTS (ALL MODELS)

Airmatic air suspension compressor and strut failures, leading to ride height issues and expensive repairs
Oil cooler leaks on OM642 diesel engines, requiring gasket replacement
Swirl flap motor failure on OM642 diesel engines, causing reduced performance and check engine lights
Electronic issues including COMAND system malfunctions, various sensor failures, and dashboard warning lights
Power steering pump leaks and steering rack issues
Rust on subframes and suspension components, particularly in regions with harsh weather or road salt (less common in Australia but possible)

Frequently asked questions

Is the Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 (2006-2012) reliable in Australia?: This generation is summarized with a trust score of 65 out of 100 based on recurring themes in owner reports and platform notes (not a lab test). Use the buy/avoid lists and inspection points below before purchase.
Which Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 configuration should I buy used?: GL320 CDI (OM642 V6 Diesel) with 7G-Tronic Automatic: Strong torque and reasonable fuel economy for its class Generally robust engine block and common parts availability
Which Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006 configurations should I avoid?: GL350 (M272 V6 Petrol) or GL450/GL500 (M273 V8 Petrol) with 7G-Tronic Automatic (especially 2006-2007 models): Balance shaft wear on M272/M273 engines leading to significant timing issues and potential catastrophic engine damage, requiring extremely costly repairs Early 7G-Tronic automatic transmission valve body and conductor plate failures
What should I inspect on a used Mercedes Benz Gls Class model year 2006?: Airmatic air suspension compressor and strut failures, leading to ride height issues and expensive repairs Oil cooler leaks on OM642 diesel engines, requiring gasket replacement Swirl flap motor failure on OM642 diesel engines, causing reduced performance and check engine lights Electronic issues including COMAND system malfunctions, various sensor failures, and dashboard warning lights

Sources

No web sources were attached to this report. This usually means grounding was unavailable and the fallback structured generation mode was used.

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