What are the common issues with the GL350 diesel version?
4 Answers
The main issue with the GL350 diesel version is that the vehicle may fail to start after the urea solution is depleted. Below are specific details about automotive urea: 1. Principle: Harmful substances in exhaust gases are primarily nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. While particulate emissions can be reduced through technical means within the engine, nitrogen oxides remain the main component in the exhaust. Urea is injected into the exhaust after-treatment device, where it decomposes into ammonia at high temperatures. Under the action of a catalyst, the ammonia reacts with nitrogen oxides to produce harmless nitrogen and water. This system is called the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) after-treatment system. 2. Urea consumption: Vehicles are equipped with a dedicated urea tank, and urea is consumed as long as the engine is running, so it must be replenished in a timely manner. Typically, about 4 liters of urea are consumed per 100 liters of diesel fuel. The exact consumption rate depends on factors such as engine displacement, model, manufacturer, etc. Different road conditions and varying loads can also affect urea consumption.
Driving a diesel-powered GL350, I've encountered quite a few minor issues. Mainly with the engine, such as frequent clogging of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). If you mostly drive short distances in the city, it tends to accumulate carbon deposits, often triggering a warning light that requires highway driving to clean it out. There's also the issue with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, which can cause power loss or black smoke emissions. Another point is the AdBlue system; the urea injection system occasionally throws errors due to overly sensitive sensors, requiring costly repairs. The electrical system is also prone to issues, with faults in the lighting control module or aging wiring harnesses potentially causing false alarms. Overall, diesel engines are slower to start in cold weather and noisier, but proper maintenance can prevent major problems. It's recommended to inspect the emission system quarterly.
I've been driving the GL350 diesel version for the past few years, and the maintenance has been a bit of a hassle. The low fuel consumption is a plus, but the repair costs aren't cheap, especially when it comes to DPF cleaning or replacement—parts are expensive, and a single service can easily cost thousands. Common issues include high-pressure fuel pump leaks and injector sticking causing unstable idling, so you need to regularly change the oil and filters to prevent these. Electrical problems are also frequent, like ABS sensor failures or the onboard computer falsely reporting engine issues, requiring diagnostic tools to decode. On the highway, if the AdBlue tank runs empty and isn't refilled in time, it'll limit your speed, which is quite annoying. Overall, diligent maintenance and not ignoring warning lights can save a lot of trouble—just find a reliable shop for regular upkeep.
Daily driving the GL350 diesel, I've noticed several pain points. The emission system frequently triggers warnings, especially in city traffic where the DPF tends to clog - I have to find opportunities to clear it by driving on highways. The AdBlue filler design is inconvenient, and spills often dirty the car body. Cold starts in winter require waiting for preheating, otherwise the engine vibrates noticeably. The seat heating sometimes malfunctions, likely due to electrical contact issues. Over long-term use, the suspension bushings wear out quickly, making the ride feel stiffer with noticeable noise on bumpy roads. Regular air filter changes and tire pressure checks can provide some relief.
