🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

GL-Class

Model Variant:

GL550

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

X164

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (X164) GL550 represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's large luxury SUV offering, targeting affluent families and individuals seeking comfort, advanced technology, and robust capability, often compared to competitors like the BMW X5 and Cadillac Escalade.

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned as a premium, full-size luxury SUV, the GL550 excelled in passenger comfort and refinement, offering a car-like driving experience despite its size. Its advanced safety features and powerful V8 engine were key selling points against rivals.

Key Features:

Powerful V8 engine, standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, three-row seating capacity, advanced COMAND infotainment system, available AIRMATIC suspension, luxurious interior appointments, comprehensive safety suite.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive owner's manual for 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL550, covering all aspects of vehicle operation, maintenance, and features.

Estimated Page Count:

400-600 (estimated based on typical Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems (COMAND, Audio 20), Climate Controls (THERMATIC, THERMOTRONIC), Lighting Systems (Exterior and Interior), Driver Controls (Steering Wheel Functions, Cruise Control, Memory Seats), Locks and Security (Keyless-Go, Central Locking, Alarm), Seating and Safety Restraints (Power Seats, Seatbelt Operation, Airbag System, ISOFIX), Driving (Starting, Braking, Parking, Trailer Hitch Operation), Customer Assistance, Cleaning and Care, Engine Compartment (Identification of components), Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter, Accessories, Service Information.

Procedures Included:

Operation of all vehicle features, basic maintenance procedures (e.g., checking fluid levels, tire pressure), troubleshooting common warning indicators, security system operation, seat adjustment, proper use of safety restraints, driving techniques specific to the GL-Class, cleaning recommendations, understanding instrument cluster displays.

Technical Depth:

Owner-level understanding and operation. Focuses on user-friendly explanations of features and basic maintenance. Does not delve into detailed mechanical repair procedures or advanced diagnostics typically found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

Digital (High resolution, clear text and images)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Engine Displacement:

5.5 Liters (5439 cc)

Engine Code:

M273

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Sequential Port Injection)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

98.0 mm x 90.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed Automatic

Transmission Code:

7G-TRONIC

Optional Transmission:

N/A (7G-TRONIC was standard for GL550)

Transmission Features:

TouchShift manual shifting capability, adaptive electronic control.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

200.6 inches

Width:

75.7 inches

Height:

72.4 inches

Wheelbase:

118.5 inches

Passenger Capacity:

7 (standard 3-row seating)

Front Headroom:

40.7 inches

Front Legroom:

40.3 inches

Second Row Headroom:

39.9 inches

Second Row Legroom:

34.9 inches

Third Row Headroom:

37.2 inches

Third Row Legroom:

32.3 inches

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

14.3 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

43.8 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

83.3 cu ft

Curb Weight:

5,192 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

6,834 lbs

Towing Capacity:

7,716 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) - Model Year 2008 estimates

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Active Safety Features:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA).

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags (front and rear), window curtain airbags (all rows), front active head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (ISOFIX) child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with 6.5-inch color display, AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity.

Audio System:

Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system (optional on some trims).

Driver Assistance Features:

Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC), rearview camera (optional), adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC - optional).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, SiriusXM satellite radio capability (subscription required).

Comfort Features:

Multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation (optional), heated second-row seats (optional), multi-zone automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions and oil type).

Major Service Interval:

Refer to manual for 'Service A' and 'Service B' intervals, often around 15,000-20,000 miles for more comprehensive checks.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-40 or 0W-40 synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 Quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB 236.12 (e.g., ATF 4-Speed or ATF 7-Speed)

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent blue coolant)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)

Differential Fluid Specification:

Refer to manual; typically MB 235.7 (hypoid gear oil)

Common Issues:

Air suspension compressor failure, O2 sensor issues, ignition coil failures, oil leaks from valve covers and oil cooler seals, catalytic converter issues, potential transmission control module problems, COMAND system glitches.

Oil Filter Part Number:

A 272 180 00 09 (examples may vary, refer to specific VIN)

Engine Air Filter Part Number:

A 273 094 06 01 (examples may vary)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry.

Model Evolution:

The GL-Class was introduced in 2006 as Mercedes-Benz's first full-size unibody SUV, designed to compete in the lucrative North American market. The 2008 model year was part of the first generation (X164) and received minor updates. The GL550 variant was introduced in 2007, featuring the larger 5.5L V8 engine.

Production Location:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA

Production Years First Gen:

2006-2012

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The GL-Class has received positive reviews for its comfort, refinement, and technology from various automotive publications. Specific awards for the 2008 GL550 may vary but generally reflect its luxury segment positioning.