Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliable?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class scores 68/100 (C+) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the moderate risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?

See the Common Issues section above for the top failure areas reported by real owners, with typical mileage ranges where problems start showing up.

How much does it cost to maintain a 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?

Expected maintenance costs depend heavily on age, mileage and how well the vehicle was kept up. Run the full report for a year-by-year cost outlook.

What should I check before buying a 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?

Focus on the top risk areas flagged in this report, review service history, and verify the vehicle is not inside one of the mileage danger zones listed above.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A legendary brute with solid mechanicals, but its luxury components and age make it a high-cost proposition to maintain.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2004 model year.
Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2006 Mercedes-Benz G-Class earns a 78.
The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (moderate severity).

Should You Buy the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an iconic, rugged luxury SUV built like a tank, but don't let its imposing presence fool you into believing it's a cheap date. While mechanically robust in many areas, its complex electrical systems and high cost of specialized parts mean that ownership demands a significant ongoing financial commitment to avoid crippling repair bills. This vehicle is a formidable off-roader and a statement piece, but it absolutely requires diligent maintenance and a healthy budget.

Biggest Strengths

Extremely robust M113 V8 engine
Durable 5G-Tronic transmission
Exceptional off-road capability and chassis strength

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electrical Systemmoderate

Rust and Corrosionmajor

Suspension & Steering Componentsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G-Class?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mercedes-Benz G-Class by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Click any year for its full report.

All Mercedes-Benz G-Class years ranked →Mercedes-Benz G-Class years to avoid →Mercedes-Benz G-Class common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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