Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class reliable?

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class scores 72/100 (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 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-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 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-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 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-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

2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C-

A premium SUV experience at a budget price, but be prepared for premium maintenance and repair bills, especially concerning the suspension and diesel engine.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class

Outscores the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class by 7 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: airmatic air suspension (major severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2012 model year.

2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class: Buy or Avoid?

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offers substantial luxury and capability for a depreciated price, making it a tempting proposition for the discerning buyer. However, it demands a significant ongoing investment in maintenance and anticipated repairs, particularly for its complex air suspension and specific engine vulnerabilities. Proceed with caution and a healthy repair budget to truly enjoy this full-size luxury SUV.

Biggest Strengths

Robust build quality (excluding some specific components)
Excellent ride comfort and quiet cabin
Powerful engine options (especially gasoline variants)

2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

AIRMATIC Air Suspensionmajor

Diesel Engine (GL350 BlueTEC) Oil Coolermajor

Electrical Systemmoderate

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

Safety Recalls on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class?

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

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Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class — Year-by-Year Comparison

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

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

Competing 2012s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2010 ToyotaLand Cruiser

92/100

2010 ToyotaSienna

88/100

2011 ChevroletCorvette

Relevant Products for Your 2012 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report