Preventing gearbox failure in the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Despite modest sales, the GL-Class received numerous awards: on the North American market, the car was even named SUV of the Year by the prestigious trade magazine MotorTrend. The GL-Class features a unique gearbox, fitted as standard on all models in the range: the 7G-Tronicalso developed by the Mercedes-Benz Group, and featuring seven gears, as its name suggests. This automatic gearboxautomatic gearbox reliable and robust, is the first to offer such a high number of gears to the general public. Unfortunately, it's not impossible that a malfunction or intensive use could have an impact on the its lifespan. What can you do to prevent breakdowns? We answer your questions.

Changing the gearbox oil to protect the transmission

The essential role of gearbox oil

Gearbox oil has three major roles for the smooth operation of your transmission system:

• It reduces friction of gearbox components by ensuring effective lubrication. In particular, it maintains the integrity of gearbox seals;
• It helps to dissipate heat generated during driving, preventing overheating;
• Its detergent properties allow components to be cleaned. The oil is then loaded with metal particles and other residues.

For these reasons, it's crucial to regularly check the quality and quantity of gear oil in your Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The dipstick in the reservoir has two level marks: if the fluid is below these marks, then your vehicle probably has a leak, which must be identify and repair.

On the other hand, if the oil in the dipstick looks blackened, it's saturated with residues. In this case, an oil change an oil change is necessary.

Note that, as a general rule, this operation should be carried out every two years, or after 60,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

How do I change my gearbox oil?

Changing the gearbox oil is a relatively simple process that can be performed with a minimum of tools :

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and then elevate it;
• Locate the transmission located under the car;
• Place a drip tray under the crankcase, then remove the drain plug;
• Allow the oil to drain into the sump, clean the housing and replace seals if necessary if necessary;
• After closing the drain, remove the dipstick and pour in the new oil using a funnel or a suitable syringe. Make sure the gearbox oil you choose conforms to the manufacturer's recommendations in your GL-Class service manual;
• Check that the oil level is between the two marks on the dipstick;
• Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes without moving to circulate the new oil in the gearbox;
• Drive the vehicle in all gears (don't forget reverse). Park it and check for leaks.

If you don't want to change the oil yourself, your garage can do it quickly and at a reasonable cost.

Managing gearbox faults

While changing the gearbox oil may solve some transmission system problems, other malfunctions require the intervention of a professional mechanic. the intervention of a professional mechanic. Most of these can be solved in the garage, but the more complex ones require considerable time and resources.

Therefore, in cases of advanced deterioration, the garage will advise you to proceed with a complete gearbox replacement.

Our solution is made for you: discover our Mercedes-Benz gearboxes standard exchange ! Your new gearbox has been dismantled and cleaned, part by part. Defective components have been replaced, and the whole unit has been rigorously tested by our experts. You benefit from a brand-new product, but at at second-hand prices and with no compromise on safety, since it comes with a one-year warranty.

Please have your registration number ready and contact us for personalized assistance: it's fast it's fast, free and without obligation !