Mercedes-Benz · Known Issues

2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Problems: 13 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2000-2025 model years · 2,580+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,580+ owner reports, the 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has 13 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are Front Axle Seal Leak ($600-$1,500 repair), Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 23V445000) ($0-$0 repair), M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Excessive Oil Consumption and Cylinder Scoring ($300-$18,000 repair), M157 5.5L Biturbo V8 Cylinder Scoring and Camshaft Adjuster Wear (Pre-Facelift G 63) ($800-$20,000 repair) and Front Axle Wiring Harness Chafe Against Oil Cooler Causing ABS/ESC Loss (Recall 23V097000) ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Steering Damper Wear Causing Wander and Vibration with 890 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $20,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 13 Known Issues

On the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, the 4.0L biturbo M177 V8 in the W463A G 550 and AMG G 63 is documented for above-normal engine oil consumption (often 1 quart per ~1,000-2,000 miles in worse cases), with the most severe outcome being cylinder bore/liner scoring and piston ring wear at higher mileage. The high-output, hot-running twin-turbo design stresses piston rings and the iron-coated aluminum bores; carbon buildup and ring coking aggravate consumption. If left unaddressed, low oil level can lead to bearing/piston damage. Owners report repeated low-oil warnings between services and, in advanced cases, misfires and blue exhaust smoke.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz GLB, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Mercedes-Benz GLC

Common Symptoms

Frequent low oil level warnings
Oil consumption between services
Blue/grey exhaust smoke
Misfire at higher mileage
Rough idle

How to Fix

Check oil level frequently and top up with the correct MB 229.5/AMG-spec full-synthetic oil; do not rely solely on service intervals. Diagnose with an oil-consumption test and leak-down/compression test; rule out the common contributors first (PCV/oil separator diaphragm, valve seals, turbo seals). Walnut-blast intake valves if carbon-fouled. Confirmed cylinder scoring requires a short block or engine replacement, ideally under powertrain warranty.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $18,000

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Medium ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2013-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M157 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8, the 5.5L M157 biturbo V8 used in the W463 AMG G 63 before the 2019 redesign is documented for cylinder wall scoring/scuffing at higher mileage plus weaknesses in timing-chain components and camshaft (VVT) adjusters. The camshaft adjuster magnets/solenoids meter oil to the VVT and chain; restricted flow accelerates chain and gear wear. Oil intrusion into the camshaft position sensor wiring can also mimic internal engine faults. Symptoms range from multi-cylinder misfires to rattle and, in worst cases, metal in the oil from bore scoring.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Mercedes-Benz CLA, Mercedes-Benz GLA

Common Symptoms

Multi-cylinder misfire
Engine rattle/timing noise
Rough running
Check engine light
Metal particles in oil (advanced)

How to Fix

Use only the correct AMG-spec synthetic oil and shorter change intervals. Diagnose misfires by checking camshaft adjusters/solenoids and cleaning oil-contaminated sensor connectors before assuming internal failure. Inspect timing chain, tensioner and sprockets; replace worn camshaft adjusters. Confirmed cylinder scoring requires major engine work or replacement.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $20,000

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class OM642 3.0L V6 Diesel, european-market diesel G-Class models with the OM642 3.0L V6 (G 320 CDI / G 350 CDI / G 350 d) commonly develop oil leaks from the engine oil cooler seals seated in the valley of the engine block. The original orange seals harden from heat and shrink, allowing oil to weep down the back of the block. Mercedes upgraded to purple Viton seals (~2010+), which reduced but did not eliminate the problem. Because the cooler sits under the intake, the leak is often misdiagnosed and the repair is labor-intensive.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Common Symptoms

Oil drips/puddles under engine
Low oil level warning
Burning oil smell
Oil staining at rear of engine block

How to Fix

Replace the oil cooler O-ring/gasket seals (use the updated Viton seals) and inspect the cooler itself for damage. While the intake is removed, it is cost-effective to also service the swirl-flap linkage and clean the EGR. Confirm the leak source versus turbo pedestal and valve cover gaskets, which can leak simultaneously.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,800

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2005-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class OM642 3.0L V6 Diesel, on diesel G-Class models with the OM642 V6, the plastic intake-manifold swirl flap linkage becomes brittle and snaps, and the swirl-flap actuator motor can fail (often after being contaminated by oil weeping from the turbo inlet seal). The broken plastic rods can also be drawn into the engine in worst cases. This is a well-known weak point that triggers intake-runner control faults, limp mode, and emissions test failures. Particularly relevant to higher-mileage EU diesel examples.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Common Symptoms

Engine warning light
Limp mode / reduced power
Rough or poor idle
Hesitation on acceleration
Failed emissions test

How to Fix

Replace the swirl-flap actuator and fit a metal/upgraded swirl-flap repair kit (e.g. updated connecting rod kit) to replace the brittle plastic linkage. Address any upstream turbo oil leak contaminating the motor. A resistor bypass only clears the code and is not a proper repair if the linkage is broken.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $900

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

620 owners

On the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the front differential axle seals on the W463 G-Class are prone to leaking gear oil, particularly on higher-mileage vehicles. Oil seeps past the worn seals onto the brake components, potentially contaminating brake pads and reducing braking effectiveness. The solid axle design makes seal replacement more involved than on IFS vehicles.

Common Symptoms

Oil residue on inner front wheels
Gear oil smell from front axle area
Brake pulling to one side
Visible oil on brake caliper or rotor

How to Fix

Replace both front axle seals and inspect the axle shafts for scoring. If brake pads are contaminated with oil, replace pads and resurface or replace rotors. Use genuine Mercedes seals for proper fitment on the solid axle housing.

What you need to fix it

The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.

From owners — upgrades & tips (620+ fixed this)

NoteDo not ignore front axle seal leaks — oil contamination of brake pads is a serious safety issue. Replace both sides even if only one is leaking, as the other will follow soon.

Part links may earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,500

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Medium Confidence620 reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

340 owners

On the 2013-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the transfer case on newer G-Class models develops fluid leaks at the output shaft seals, particularly where the driveshafts connect. The leak typically starts as a slow seep and worsens over time, eventually leading to low fluid levels and potential transfer case damage if not addressed.

Common Symptoms

Oil spots under center of vehicle
Whining noise from transfer case area
Transfer case fluid level low at service
Fluid drips visible on transfer case housing

How to Fix

Replace the transfer case output shaft seals and top off with the correct Mercedes-approved transfer case fluid. Inspect the driveshaft flanges for wear marks that could cause premature seal failure. Clean the transfer case housing thoroughly to monitor for recurrence.

What you need to fix it

The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.

From owners — upgrades & tips (340+ fixed this)

TipHave the transfer case fluid level checked at every oil change. The G-Class drivetrain is robust but only if fluids are maintained at proper levels.

Part links may earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

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Medium Confidence340 reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, nHTSA recall 23V445000 covers 2021-2023 G-Class (among many MB models) where the fuel pump impeller can deform and contact the pump housing, creating mechanical resistance that can shut down the fuel pump. The result is a sudden loss of drive power while driving, raising crash risk. 143,551 vehicles across the MB lineup were affected; owner letters mailed August 25, 2023.

Common Symptoms

Sudden loss of drive power
Engine stall while driving
Hesitation / no-start
Fuel system warning

How to Fix

Have the recall performed at a Mercedes-Benz dealer: the fuel pump is replaced free of charge under recall 23V445000. Owners can verify open recalls via NHTSA VIN lookup. Symptoms of an unstall/hesitation or unexpected power loss should be reported promptly.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, nHTSA recall 23V097000 covers 2019-2021 G 550 and AMG G 63 vehicles in which the front axle wiring harness can chafe against an oil cooler and become damaged. The resulting damage can cause loss of anti-lock braking (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC), increasing crash risk. 26,116 units were affected; owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2023.

Common Symptoms

ABS warning light
ESC/stability control fault
Traction control disabled
Brake-related dashboard warnings

How to Fix

Have the recall remedy performed at a Mercedes-Benz dealer free of charge: the harness is inspected and either a protective sleeve is installed or the front axle wiring harness is replaced as necessary. Verify completion via NHTSA VIN lookup, especially on used purchases.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the hand-built W463 body (Magna Steyr, Graz) is widely documented for rust because the panel metallurgy and rust-proofing are little changed from the late-1970s design. Common corrosion sites are the rear tailgate (especially the lower section around the spare-tire mount), door bottoms, sills/rocker areas, window/windscreen weatherstrip channels that trap water, and the rear frame tubes and rear strut/shock mounts on the ladder chassis. Frame-tube and strut-mount corrosion is a structural safety concern on older/salt-belt examples, distinct from the cosmetic body rust.

Common Symptoms

Paint bubbling on tailgate/doors
Visible rust on sills and door bottoms
Orange-brown discoloration on frame
Creaking/clunking from rear suspension
Flaking underbody coating

How to Fix

Inspect the tailgate lower edge, door bottoms, sills, and especially the rear frame tubes and strut mounts; sandblast and treat or weld in repair panels before rust spreads. Preventatively apply cavity wax (Waxoyl) inside doors and underbody, wash off road salt after winter, and keep trim-clip and weatherstrip drainage clear. Severe frame corrosion may require frame section repair rather than full-frame replacement.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $8,000

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

280 owners

On the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 4.0L V8 Biturbo, the W463A G-Class retains the iconic side-hinged doors which are significantly heavier than conventional doors due to their construction. The door hinges and check straps wear prematurely, causing the doors to sag and become difficult to close properly. The driver door is most commonly affected due to higher use frequency.

Common Symptoms

Door does not close flush with body
Door requires extra force to latch
Visible gap misalignment between door and body
Creaking noise when opening or closing door

How to Fix

Replace worn door hinges and check strap assemblies. Dealer replacement is recommended due to the precise alignment required. Lubricate hinges at every service interval with Mercedes-approved grease to extend hinge life.

What you need to fix it

The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.

From owners — upgrades & tips (280+ fixed this)

TipLubricate the door hinges and check straps with white lithium grease every 6 months. This significantly extends their lifespan on these heavy doors.

Part links may earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

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Medium Confidence280 reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

890 owners

On the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the recirculating ball steering system on W463 G-Class models relies on a steering damper that wears out over time, causing excessive highway wander, steering wheel vibration at speed, and a vague on-center feel. The solid front axle design amplifies these symptoms compared to independent suspension vehicles.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 4-Door

Common Symptoms

Highway steering wander
Steering wheel vibration at 55-70 mph
Vague on-center steering feel
Clunking over bumps from front end

How to Fix

Replace the steering damper with an OEM or upgraded aftermarket unit such as Bilstein B6. Inspect the drag link and tie rod ends for play simultaneously. Perform a front-end alignment after replacement.

What you need to fix it

The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.

From owners — upgrades & tips (890+ fixed this)

UpgradeBilstein B6 heavy-duty steering damper provides noticeably better road feel than the OEM unit. Direct bolt-on replacement for all W463 models. (Bilstein #B6)
View on Amazon

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Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

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High Confidence890 reportsLast reported by owners Dec 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, w463A G-Class models (G 550 with 9G-Tronic 725.0, AMG G 63 with AMG Speedshift TCT 9G) are reported for harsh, jerky, or hesitant gear changes - notably a sudden jolt on certain up/downshifts and shudder at low speeds in stop-and-go traffic. The wet-clutch take-up element and learned clutch-fill adaptations can drift out of spec, and degraded/low ATF or post-repair software mismatches aggravate the symptom. Often improvable without hardware replacement.

Common Symptoms

Hard/jerky upshift or downshift
Shudder at low speed
Hesitation when accelerating
Clunk during gear changes

How to Fix

First verify ATF level, condition and correct specification; service fluid and filter (a practical interval is roughly every 40,000-50,000 miles, sooner with heavy/off-road or towing use). Perform the factory standstill/clutch adaptation reset with a compatible scan tool and apply any TCU software updates. Persistent harshness after adaptation may indicate valve body / conductor-plate or clutch-pack wear.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $2,500

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Medium ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

450 owners

On the 2013-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, both the older COMAND NTG5 system and the newer MBUX system in the G-Class experience random freezes, black screens, and spontaneous reboots. The harsh vibration environment of the G-Class body-on-frame chassis may contribute to connection issues at the head unit. Navigation, audio, and backup camera all become unavailable during these events.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Mercedes-Benz GLB, Mercedes-Benz GLE

Common Symptoms

Infotainment screen goes black randomly
System reboots while driving
Navigation freezes mid-route
Backup camera not displaying
Audio cuts out intermittently

How to Fix

Perform a soft reset by holding the power/volume knob for 10 seconds. Visit the dealer for software updates — Mercedes regularly releases patches. If persistent, the head unit may need replacement under warranty. Ensure the vehicle has the latest map and firmware updates.

What you need to fix it

The exact parts — OEM, plus what owners actually use. Skip the internet hunt.

From owners — upgrades & tips (450+ fixed this)

TipAlways accept dealer software updates when offered. Most MBUX freeze issues have been resolved through OTA or dealer-applied patches.

Part links may earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

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Medium Confidence450 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz G-Class problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,580+ owner reports, the 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has 13 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Front Axle Seal Leak, Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 23V445000), M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Excessive Oil Consumption and Cylinder Scoring. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliable?

The 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has 13 known issues documented across 2,580+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Front Axle Seal Leak and Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 23V445000) and M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Excessive Oil Consumption and Cylinder Scoring and M157 5.5L Biturbo V8 Cylinder Scoring and Camshaft Adjuster Wear (Pre-Facelift G 63) and Front Axle Wiring Harness Chafe Against Oil Cooler Causing ABS/ESC Loss (Recall 23V097000). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz G-Class problems?

Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz G-Class issues range from $0 to $20,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Front Axle Seal Leak, typically costs $600-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class with 13 documented issues documented across 2,580+ owner reports.

All 13 Known Issues

2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Excessive Oil Consumption and Cylinder Scoring#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2013-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: M157 5.5L Biturbo V8 Cylinder Scoring and Camshaft Adjuster Wear (Pre-Facelift G 63)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: OM642 3.0L V6 Diesel Oil Cooler Seal Leak (G 350 CDI / G 350 d)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: OM642 Diesel Intake Manifold Swirl Flap (Runner) Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Front Axle Seal Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2013-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Transfer Case Fluid Leak from Output Seal#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 23V445000)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Front Axle Wiring Harness Chafe Against Oil Cooler Causing ABS/ESC Loss (Recall 23V097000)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Body, Tailgate and Underbody Frame Corrosion#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Door Hinge Sag on Heavy Doors#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Steering Damper Wear Causing Wander and Vibration#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: 9G-Tronic / AMG Speedshift Harsh or Jerky Shifting Requiring Adaptation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2013-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: COMAND/MBUX Infotainment System Freeze and Reboot#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

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Other Mercedes-Benz Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz G-Class problems?

Is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz G-Class problems?

What year Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the most reliable?

What is the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Front Axle Seal Leak?

What is the 2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 23V445000)?

What is the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M177 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Excessive Oil Consumption and Cylinder Scoring?

What is the 2013-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class M157 5.5L Biturbo V8 Cylinder Scoring and Camshaft Adjuster Wear (Pre-Facelift G 63)?

What is the 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Front Axle Wiring Harness Chafe Against Oil Cooler Causing ABS/ESC Loss (Recall 23V097000)?

What is the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Steering Damper Wear Causing Wander and Vibration?

What is the 2013-2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Transfer Case Fluid Leak from Output Seal?

What is the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Body, Tailgate and Underbody Frame Corrosion?

What is the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class 9G-Tronic / AMG Speedshift Harsh or Jerky Shifting Requiring Adaptation?

What is the 2000-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class OM642 3.0L V6 Diesel Oil Cooler Seal Leak (G 350 CDI / G 350 d)?

What is the 2005-2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class OM642 Diesel Intake Manifold Swirl Flap (Runner) Failure?

What is the 2013-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class COMAND/MBUX Infotainment System Freeze and Reboot?

What is the 2019-2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Door Hinge Sag on Heavy Doors?