2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 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
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 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 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly sealed cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings, as these can provide valuable context about the vehicle's condition. If the light persists, using an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; this device connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that indicate specific issues. Once you have the error codes, refer to your owner's manual to interpret their meanings and understand the recommended actions. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue or if the problem seems complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable to ensure your vehicle receives the proper care it needs. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the check engine light concern on your GLS450.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is not the culprit, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can affect engine performance and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to inefficiencies that activate the check engine light, so checking for any unusual noises or performance issues is wise. Another common issue is a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly. Spark plugs and ignition coils are also critical components; if they are worn or malfunctioning, they can lead to misfires, which will illuminate the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire can stem from various factors, including fuel injector problems, and should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can take initial steps to diagnose the issue before seeking professional help, ensuring their vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's health and safety. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of issues, including decreased fuel efficiency and compromised engine performance, which can ultimately result in more expensive repairs. The check engine light often indicates underlying problems with the engine or emissions system that, if left unchecked, could escalate into severe damage. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize that timely intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major headaches. By diagnosing and resolving the cause of the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also enhance your driving experience. Therefore, if you see that light illuminate, take it seriously and act quickly to ensure your Mercedes-Benz GLS450 remains in optimal condition.

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