Mercedes-Benz GLS550 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your Mercedes-Benz GLS550 and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Mercedes-Benz GLS550

When faced with a check engine light in your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify and resolve the issue. Start by checking for any obvious signs of trouble, such as unusual noises or performance changes, which can provide initial clues. Next, consider using an OBD-II scanner that is compatible with Mercedes-Benz vehicles to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This step is crucial, as it helps pinpoint the specific system or component that may be malfunctioning. If the codes indicate a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, you can address it immediately and reset the light. However, for more complex problems, it may be necessary to consult a certified technician who specializes in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, as they possess the expertise and tools to conduct a thorough diagnosis. Remember, timely intervention is key; ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe engine problems down the line, so taking a proactive approach will help maintain your vehicle's performance and longevity.

What to Check When the Check Engine Light is On in a Mercedes-Benz GLS550?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it’s essential to understand the common problems that could be causing this alert. One of the first things to inspect is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can lead to fuel vapor leaks, which often triggers the check engine light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to read the fault codes, as this tool can help identify specific issues within the engine or emissions system. Common problems that may arise include faulty oxygen sensors, issues with the catalytic converter, or malfunctions in the mass airflow sensor. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial, as ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe engine or transmission damage, resulting in costly repairs. Additionally, if the light is flashing, it indicates a serious problem that requires immediate professional attention, as it could signify a major internal failure. By being proactive and familiarizing yourself with these common failure modes, you can help ensure the performance and longevity of your Mercedes-Benz GLS550.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Mercedes-Benz GLS550?

When the check engine light illuminates in your Mercedes-Benz GLS550, it’s crucial to understand that this warning is not just a minor inconvenience; it signifies potential issues that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring the light can lead to more severe engine problems, increased repair costs, and even safety hazards while driving. For instance, a loose gas cap might seem trivial, but it can affect fuel efficiency and emissions. More serious issues, such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor or spark plugs, can lead to engine misfires or reduced performance, while problems with the catalytic converter or crankshaft can result in significant engine damage. Therefore, it’s essential to perform a thorough diagnostic check as soon as the light comes on. Regular maintenance and timely interventions not only help in resolving the immediate issue but also ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. If you’re not comfortable diagnosing the problem yourself, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic is advisable to prevent further complications.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.