🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

GL-Class

Model Code:

X164

Year:

2012

Generation:

First Generation (X164)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (X164) represented a full-size luxury SUV offering unparalleled comfort, advanced technology, and robust performance for families and luxury-oriented buyers. It competed against other premium large SUVs like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Cadillac Escalade.

Segment Positioning:

Luxury full-size SUV with emphasis on passenger comfort, advanced features, and Mercedes-Benz's renowned engineering and safety standards.

Competitive Analysis:

In its segment, the GL-Class was known for its spacious three-row seating, powerful engine options (V6 and V8), sophisticated ride quality, and extensive list of luxury and safety features. Its premium brand cachet and engineering excellence were key differentiators.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, advanced MBUX infotainment system (in later models, though this manual predates full MBUX rollout, likely COMAND APS), optional rear-seat entertainment, premium comfort features, strong towing capacity.

Comfort And Convenience:

Power-adjustable heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone automatic climate control, power liftgate, keyless-go, ambient lighting, and a sophisticated suspension system for a smooth ride.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (X164)

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as comprehensive

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Manual Type Detail:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) equivalent, providing comprehensive repair information for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (digital, downloadable)

File Usability:

User-friendly PDF format allows for easy navigation, printing of specific pages, and digital storage to prevent wear and tear.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wipers & Washers, Door Locks, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, and more.

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed coverage of engine assembly, disassembly, timing components, pistons, rings, connecting rods, crankshaft, cylinder heads, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, and engine management sensors.

Fuel And Emission:

Fuel delivery system, fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP), catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and emissions testing procedures.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including lighting, power windows, power seats, mirrors, central locking, infotainment, instrument cluster, engine control module (ECM), transmission control module (TCM), and body control modules (BCM).

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers/struts, air suspension components), steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, wheel alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.

Drive Axles And Differentials:

Front and rear axle assemblies, differential gears, bearings, seals, axle shafts, CV joints, and all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC) components and maintenance.

Climate Control HVAC:

Air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant charging, climate control module, blower motor, HVAC diagnostic procedures, heater core, and cabin air filter replacement.

Lighting And Accessories:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, hazard lights, power accessories (windows, mirrors, seats, sunroof), and their respective control modules and wiring.

Procedures Included:

Maintenance, Service, Diagnosis, Repair, Troubleshooting, Overhaul, Component Replacement, Wiring Schematics, Technical Specifications, Step-by-step instructions, Illustrations, Diagrams.

Engine Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, internal component replacement, gasket and seal replacement, troubleshooting engine performance issues.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter change, valve body diagnosis, solenoid replacement, transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, and complete transmission overhaul procedures.

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic scan tools, reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data analysis, actuator testing, and troubleshooting electrical and mechanical faults.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing individual components such as alternators, starters, radiators, HVAC components, fuel pumps, ignition coils, mass airflow sensors, and more.

Body And Frame:

Body panel alignment, rust prevention, chassis inspection, door hinge and lock adjustment, bumper repair and replacement, and underbody component protection.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seat belt pre-tensioner replacement, SRS warning light troubleshooting, and occupant restraint system components.

Technical Depth:

Includes specific torque specifications for fasteners, diagnostic flowcharts, resistance values for sensors, voltage readings for electrical circuits, and detailed illustrations to guide complex procedures.

Diagnostic Tools And Software:

Information on using Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., Star Diagnosis/XENTRY) or compatible aftermarket tools for advanced diagnostics and programming.

Brake System:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS hydraulic unit, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), and parking brake (mechanical or electronic).

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and tailgate operation, interior trim components, seating systems, airbags deployment and replacement procedures, and glass replacement.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications (bolt pattern, offset, center bore), tire size recommendations (e.g., 255/55R18, 265/45R20), tire pressure specifications, balancing, and rotation procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

File Format Detail:

Searchable PDF allows for quick access to specific information by keyword or section.

Print Quality:

High quality, printable; images can be enlarged for detailed viewing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format, user prints on demand)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Likely includes the 3.5L M272 V6 (GL350), 4.7L M278 V8 (GL450), and potentially the 5.5L M157 V8 (GL550) or diesel variants. Specific engine codes would be detailed in the manual.

Engine Variants Covered:

GL350 CDI (Diesel - likely OM642 engine), GL450 (M272 V6 or M278 V8, depending on specific production date within the year), GL550 (M278 V8).

Performance:

Engine power and torque figures vary by specific engine. For example, the GL450 (2012) typically produced around 335 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The manual would provide exact specifications for each engine variant.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system details, fuel pump specifications, injector part numbers, fuel pressure requirements, and diagnosis procedures for various engine variants (e.g., M272, M278) would be covered.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS)

Optional:

N/A for this model year, 7G-TRONIC PLUS was standard across the GL-Class range.

Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, manual shifting modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport), transmission fluid type (e.g., MB 236.14), capacity, filter replacement procedures, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Length: approx. 200.6 inches, Width: approx. 76.6 inches, Height: approx. 72.4 inches. Wheelbase: approx. 118.1 inches. Specific dimensions would be listed in the manual.

Interior:

Seating capacity for 7 passengers in three rows, substantial legroom and headroom for all occupants. Cargo volume details for different seating configurations would be included.

Cargo:

Configurable cargo space with folding rear seats. Specific cubic feet (cu ft) for cargo behind the third row, second row, and with all seats folded would be detailed in the manual.

Weights:

Curb weight typically ranges from approximately 5,000 to 5,500 lbs depending on engine and options. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and towing capacities would be specified.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

The X164 GL-Class generally achieved high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its time. Specific crash test data and ratings would be referenced in the manual if available or implied through design analysis.

Active Features:

4MATIC all-wheel drive, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), optional adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC PLUS), lane keeping assist (later models).

Passive Features:

Front, side, and curtain airbags for all three rows, active head restraints, crumple zones, reinforced safety cell. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) coverage and diagnosis are explicitly mentioned in manual coverage.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a central display, navigation, AM/FM/CD/DVD audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and auxiliary inputs. Details on operation, troubleshooting, and component replacement would be covered.

Multimedia Options:

Optional rear-seat entertainment system, SiriusXM satellite radio, Media Interface for connecting external audio devices.

Driver Assistance:

Features such as PARKTRONIC parking sensors, rearview camera (often optional), and available DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control. The manual would explain the function, calibration, and troubleshooting of these systems.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, Mercedes-Benz proprietary telematics systems (like mbrace, if equipped), and wired auxiliary inputs for audio devices. Wiring diagrams for these systems would be included.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

The manual will detail factory-recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, coolant flushes, and spark plug replacements, based on mileage and time.

Fluid Specifications:

Specific Mercedes-Benz approved fluid specifications, including engine oil grades (e.g., MB 229.5 for gasoline engines), transmission fluid types (e.g., MB 236.14), brake fluid DOT rating, power steering fluid, coolant type (e.g., Zerex G-05), and differential fluid viscosities.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51 for gasoline engines; MB-Approval 229.51 or 228.51 for diesel engines. Specific viscosity (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-30) based on climate.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB-Approval 236.14 for 7G-TRONIC transmissions.

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or similar, often silicate-free, blue/green color) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.

Known Issues:

While not explicitly stated in product info, such a manual would cover common X164 issues like potential air suspension leaks, issues with the 7G-TRONIC transmission solenoids, ignition coil failures, and potentially issues related to the M272 engine's balance shaft (though less common by 2012) or the M278's timing chain. Diagnosis and repair procedures for these would be included.

Common Maintenance Items:

Regular replacement of air filters, cabin filters, spark plugs, brake pads and rotors, and ensuring all fluid levels are maintained as per the manual's schedule.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and pioneering automotive technology, dating back to the invention of the automobile. This heritage translates into the high-quality construction and advanced features found in the GL-Class.

Model Evolution:

The X164 GL-Class was introduced in 2006 as Mercedes-Benz's first full-size, three-row SUV. It was designed to compete in the North American market and offered significant interior space and luxury. The 2012 model year falls within the first generation's lifecycle, which received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2010 model year.

Key Updates For 2012:

While part of the first generation, the 2012 model would incorporate refinements from the 2010 facelift, which included updated styling cues, improved interior materials, and enhanced powertrain efficiency and technology.

Production:

The X164 GL-Class was primarily produced at the Mercedes-Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.