2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550 has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What initial steps should I take for a check engine light on a 2015 Mercedes GL550?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to reset the check engine light. This can be done by turning the ignition key to the "on" position without starting the engine, which may clear the warning if the issue was temporary. If the light reappears, it’s crucial to diagnose the underlying problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help you read the trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer, providing insight into what might be wrong. Should the light persist or if the codes indicate a more serious issue, it’s wise to consult a professional mechanic or a Mercedes-Benz dealership for a thorough inspection. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and determine the best course of action for your vehicle.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues can help you troubleshoot effectively. One frequent culprit is emissions-related problems, often stemming from faulty sensors that monitor the vehicle's exhaust system. Additionally, a loose or damaged gas cap is a simple yet common issue that can trigger the light, as it affects fuel pressure and can lead to increased emissions. If you've recently installed aftermarket components, such as alarms or exhaust systems, ensure they were fitted correctly, as improper installation can lead to electrical issues or even battery drainage. Other potential causes include malfunctions in the ignition system, engine timing, or transmission, which may require more in-depth diagnostics. By addressing these common problems, you can take the first steps toward resolving the check engine light issue and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL550, it is essential to take immediate action. This warning signals that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a fault, which could range from minor issues to significant mechanical failures. Ignoring this alert can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage or compromised safety features, especially if the light begins to flash, indicating a critical issue that requires urgent attention. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance your driving experience, ensuring that you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs down the line. Prioritizing this warning is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of your luxury vehicle.

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