What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLS problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,600+ owner reports, the 2017-2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure, 9G-Tronic Harsh Shift. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS reliable?

The 2017-2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS has 2 known issues documented across 2,600+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure. 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 GLS problems?

Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz GLS issues range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure, typically costs $800-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

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Community Reported

1,500 owners

On the 2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS, the GLS AIRMATIC system is prone to air spring leaks and compressor failure due to the vehicle's heavy curb weight (5,700+ lbs). Front air springs tend to fail first. The compressor overworks to maintain ride height and eventually burns out.

This issue also affects: Audi A4 allroad, Audi A6 allroad, Audi S8

Common Symptoms

Vehicle leans to one side after parking
Harsh ride quality and clunking

How to Fix

Replace leaking air springs and the compressor if it has been overworked. All four springs should be inspected. Arnott aftermarket springs offer good value. The compressor relay should also be replaced preventively.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,500+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThe GLS is heavier than the GLE and destroys air springs faster. Budget for air spring replacement every 60,000-80,000 miles as a cost of ownership.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $4,000

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1,500+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence1,500 reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

1,100 owners

On the 2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS, the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic exhibits harsh low-speed shifts and hunting between gears on inclines. The transmission software struggles to select the optimal gear among nine ratios, particularly noticeable in stop-and-go traffic.

Common Symptoms

Jerky 1-2-3 shifts in city driving
Transmission hunts between gears on hills

How to Fix

Update the TCU software to the latest calibration at a Mercedes dealer. Perform a transmission adaptation reset after the update. A fluid and filter change can also improve shift quality.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,100+ owners who fixed this issue

TipAfter a TCU update, drive the vehicle in normal conditions for 200+ miles to allow the transmission to relearn your driving style. Shift quality improves significantly after the adaptation period.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $2,500

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1,100+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence1,100 reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS: AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS: 9G-Tronic Harsh Shift#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Mercedes-Benz Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLS problems?

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS reliable?

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

What is the 2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure?

What is the 2017-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS 9G-Tronic Harsh Shift?