Positioning:
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL 450 is positioned as a full-size, luxury, three-row SUV, competing in a segment with vehicles like the BMW X5, Lexus LX 570, and Cadillac Escalade. It emphasizes comfort, advanced technology, and Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality and safety.
Segment Competitors:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Lexus LX 570, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety systems, spacious seating for up to seven passengers, sophisticated ride quality.
Coverage:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-500 (typical for a comprehensive Mercedes-Benz owner's manual of this era)
Systems:
Vehicle operation, dashboard controls and indicators, infotainment and audio systems, HVAC controls, lighting functions, driver assistance features, central locking and alarm system, seating adjustments, airbag system, driving modes and techniques, customer service information, basic cleaning procedures, routine maintenance items, engine bay layout, fluid specifications and capacities, battery maintenance, fuel type requirements, air filter identification, general part numbers for consumables, accessory installation guidance.
Procedures:
Starting and operating the vehicle, understanding dashboard warnings and indicators, using climate control and entertainment systems, operating lights and exterior features, adjusting seats and safety restraints, engaging and disengaging locks and security features, safe driving practices, basic cleaning of interior and exterior, checking and topping up essential fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), jump-starting the vehicle, refueling procedures, identifying and replacing air filter(s), locating customer assistance resources, understanding safety defect reporting procedures (U.S.), identifying common refill capacities and lubricant specifications.
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level information for daily operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not typically include in-depth repair procedures, diagnostic codes, or component-level disassembly. Focuses on user understanding and safe operation.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Compatibility:
Requires PDF reader software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader) and is compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).
Quality:
Digital, compiled from factory manual, implying high resolution for text and diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Engine Type:
4.7L (4663cc) V8
Horsepower:
335 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Layout:
Front-engine, longitudinally mounted
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 approved synthetic oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Air Filter Part Number Example:
A2730940404 (Consult manual for exact fitment)
Length:
200.3 inches (5087 mm)
Width:
76.4 inches (1941 mm)
Height:
70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Wheelbase:
118.5 inches (3010 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,900 - 5,000 lbs (2220 - 2270 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 6,700 - 6,800 lbs (3040 - 3080 kg)
Towing Capacity:
7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) (with optional trailer hitch)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 13.2 cubic feet (374 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 41.2 cubic feet (1167 liters)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approximately 77.4 cubic feet (2192 liters)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
5-Star (for the 2010 model year, typical for this class)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (typically awarded to Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, though specific rating for 2010 GL-Class should be verified).
Airbags:
Driver and front-passenger airbags, front-side airbags, side-curtain airbags for all rows.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in second-row seating positions.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Drivetrain Safety:
4MATIC all-wheel drive system enhancing traction and stability.
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional systems like DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control), PARKTRONIC (parking assist), rearview camera, and Blind Spot Assist might have been available depending on trim.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, typically featuring a color display, AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 playback, and optional navigation, Bluetooth connectivity.
Audio System:
Standard premium audio system, optional Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system.
Standard Driver Assistance:
ABS, ESP, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist.
Optional Driver Assistance Features:
DISTRONIC (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC (Parking Assistance), rearview camera, Blind Spot Assist, Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming (often via a Media Interface cable for direct device connection).
Climate Control:
Dual-zone or multi-zone automatic climate control with rear auxiliary climate controls.
Seating Features:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated front and rear seats, optional ventilated front seats and multi-contour front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Flexible, based on 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators in the vehicle, typically around 10,000 miles or 1 year. Consult the specific manual for exact intervals determined by driving conditions.
Major Service Intervals:
Includes items like spark plugs, transmission fluid service, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid changes, and air filter replacement at varying intervals (e.g., 30k, 60k, 100k miles). Specifics are detailed in the manual.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz specification antifreeze/coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0) - typically a blue silicate-free formula.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or Mercedes-Benz specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Hydraulic fluid meeting MB specification 236.3 or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Air suspension components (if equipped), control arms, sway bar links, brake pads and rotors, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Issues with the COMAND infotainment system, sensor failures (e.g., ABS sensors), battery drain issues can occur with age and mileage.
Engine Specifics:
The M273 engine is generally robust but can be prone to intake manifold issues or timing chain wear over higher mileage. Regular oil changes are crucial.
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
A1648300318 (Consult manual for exact fitment)
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry since its inception in the late 19th century.
Generation:
First Generation (X164) - Introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year. The 2010 model represents a mid-cycle update or a continuation of the pre-facelifted X164 generation.
Facelift Information:
The X164 received a significant facelift for the 2009 model year, introducing updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, bumpers), interior enhancements, and revised powertrain options. The 2010 model falls within this updated X164 generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
Segment Awards:
While specific awards for the 2010 GL 450 might vary, the GL-Class generally received positive reviews for its luxury, capability, and safety from automotive publications during its production run.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
EPA estimated fuel economy for the 2010 GL 450 was typically around 13 MPG city / 17 MPG highway. (These are estimates and can vary).