2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550 Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550 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 GLS550 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 GLS550?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it's crucial to start with a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, check your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that may provide further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a vital step; by connecting it to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, you can retrieve specific error codes that will help identify the underlying issue. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can offer valuable clues. Finally, consult your owner's manual for guidance on what the check engine light may signify and any manufacturer-recommended steps. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively gather information to address the check engine light issue and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it can signal a range of common issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which monitors exhaust gases and can affect fuel efficiency; replacing this sensor can be a straightforward task with the right tools. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter or mass airflow sensor can also trigger the light, and while these repairs may require more technical knowledge, they are feasible for those with some mechanical experience. Spark plug wear or ignition coil failures can lead to engine misfires, and both components are accessible for replacement. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial, as neglecting them can lead to more significant engine problems. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help identify the specific trouble codes associated with the check engine light, guiding you toward the appropriate DIY solution.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and compromised engine performance, which may escalate into costly repairs. The vehicle's advanced onboard diagnostics system is designed to help identify the specific issue, making it essential to utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) before proceeding. This initial step can guide you in understanding whether the problem is minor, such as a loose gas cap, or more serious, like a failing sensor or engine component. While some issues may be manageable through DIY fixes, others necessitate professional intervention to prevent further damage. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly not only safeguards your vehicle's performance but also enhances your safety on the road.

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