2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 Is Leaking Oil

Causes and Solutions for Oil Leaks in 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to identify the source of the oil leak in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450?

When tackling an oil leak in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and the area beneath the vehicle. Look for any signs of oil pooling or dripping, as these can indicate the leak's origin. Next, check the oil levels to assess if there has been a significant loss, which could confirm the presence of a leak. Pay special attention to the oil filter and drain plug; ensure they are secure and free from any oil residue. Inspecting gaskets and seals is crucial, as wear or damage in areas like the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket can lead to leaks. For a more precise diagnosis, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil and using a UV light after running the engine to reveal any hidden leaks. Finally, if the source remains elusive, performing a pressure test on the oil system can help identify leaks that are not visible during initial inspections. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the oil leak in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of the oil pan gasket, which can wear out over time, leading to leaks at the bottom of the engine. Additionally, worn valve cover gaskets are another common source of leaks, often resulting in oil seeping from the top of the engine. It's also important to check the oil filter housing gasket, as a faulty seal in this area can cause oil to leak around the oil filter. Furthermore, oil cooler lines can develop leaks due to age and wear, contributing to oil seepage. Lastly, various oil seals, including crankshaft and camshaft seals, can deteriorate, leading to leaks. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch these issues early, allowing for timely repairs and preventing more significant problems down the line.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. An oil leak can significantly reduce oil levels, leading to inadequate lubrication of engine components, which increases the risk of severe engine damage over time. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can result in engine overheating, potentially culminating in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The safety implications are equally concerning, as leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of any oil leaks to safeguard both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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