Mercedes-Benz GL550 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your Mercedes-Benz GL550 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mercedes-Benz GL550 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 Mercedes-Benz GL550 engine is stalling?

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.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

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.

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.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling in a Mercedes-Benz GL550

When troubleshooting engine stalling in your Mercedes-Benz GL550, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the air filter, as a dirty filter can significantly restrict airflow, leading to stalling. Replacing it is a straightforward task that can yield immediate results. Next, inspect the engine sensors; a malfunctioning sensor can disrupt the engine's performance by sending incorrect data to the control module. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider examining the battery, alternator, and starter, as problems in these components can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to stall unexpectedly. Additionally, pay attention to the check engine light; if illuminated, it may indicate underlying issues that require further investigation. By following this methodical approach, starting with the simplest fixes and gradually addressing more complex problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve stalling issues in your GL550, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

What to Check When Your Mercedes-Benz GL550 Engine is Stalling?

When your Mercedes-Benz GL550 engine is stalling, it's crucial to systematically evaluate several key components to determine the cause of the issue. Begin with the fuel system, as failures such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or inadequate fuel pressure can severely affect engine performance. Next, inspect the air intake system for any blockages or faults that could hinder airflow, which is essential for proper combustion. The ignition system should also be examined, as issues like faulty ignition coils or worn spark plugs can lead to misfires and stalling. Additionally, the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is vital for measuring the air entering the engine; any malfunction here can contribute to stalling problems. Monitoring the Idle Air Control Valve (IAVC) voltage is another critical step, as irregularities may indicate issues with engine idle stability. Don't forget to check the Overvoltage Protection (OVP) relay, as a failure in this component can lead to electrical issues that impact engine operation. Lastly, while the Secondary Air Injection System may not directly cause stalling, it can trigger emission-related trouble codes that complicate diagnostics. By thoroughly assessing these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the stalling issue, ensuring your GL550 operates smoothly and reliably.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Mercedes-Benz GL550?

When your Mercedes-Benz GL550 experiences engine stalling, it’s essential to act quickly, as ignoring the issue can lead to severe safety risks and costly repairs. A dirty air filter, for instance, can significantly restrict airflow, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly, which could be dangerous while driving. Additionally, problems with the ignition system or fuel pump can lead to complete engine failure, leaving you stranded. If you hear unusual sounds at startup, such as rattling, it may indicate a stretched or loose timing chain, which can result in catastrophic engine damage if not addressed immediately. Electrical issues, like a failing ignition tumbler switch, can also cause the engine to cut off while other systems remain operational, creating a hazardous situation. Furthermore, the Overvoltage Protection relay (OVP) can develop bad solder joints, leading to intermittent stalling that can catch you off guard. Therefore, diagnosing the root cause of the stalling promptly is crucial to ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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