Used Mercedes-Benz GLS review and buying guide (2013 to 2019): which one to buy and what to check

Which used Mercedes-Benz GLS should you buy?

Any GLS from 2013 to 2019 is worth a look, since there are no known faults against the model and nothing points to a year to dodge. That's thin evidence rather than a clean bill of health, so each car stands or falls on its own condition and paperwork, and a 2013 to 2015 diesel needs proof that its emissions software update was done.

The bigger question is whether you can live with one. It's too big for plenty of UK roads, and the 350 BlueTec on the standard 18-inch wheels has a choppy ride and isn't much fun to drive. Take the exact car down the narrowest lanes you use and into your usual car park, and don't buy until you've had a proper drive on bumpy roads.

Which GLS engines and gearboxes are the safe choices?

The 350 BlueTec diesel is the only engine there's anything on, and there are no known faults against it, though that's down to how little has been reported rather than proof it's tough. On the standard 18-inch wheels it rides badly and feels dull, so a test drive over broken tarmac tells you whether you'll get on with it.

Diesels registered up to September 2015 were covered by Mercedes' voluntary software update to cut nitrogen oxide emissions, and it's a dealer job that should show on an invoice. One owner's brand new GLS needed a NOx sensor at 300 miles after an engine warning. There's nothing either way on the gearbox, so judge the one in front of you: it should change smoothly and promptly from a cold start.

What should you check when viewing a used GLS?

Test the air suspension first, as every GLS has it. With the engine running, the car should sit level and rise and drop evenly when you change the height setting. There's nothing reported against it on this model, but a car that leans, has sunk after standing or shows a suspension warning isn't one to buy on a promise.

One owner who bought a GLS new in March 2019 found, within 11 weeks and 1,917 miles, that the air con system was empty of refrigerant and that body damage had been badly repaired and missed before handover. It's one car, but both are easy to check: run the air con until it blows cold, and look along every panel in daylight for paint that doesn't match.

For paperwork, ask for the dealer invoice showing the emissions software update on any diesel registered up to September 2015, plus the service history, and check the mileages on the invoices climb in step with the one on the dash. If the seller can't show the update, get a Mercedes dealer to confirm it's been done before you pay.

Paste the advert into the free check and it runs these against the listing, the MOT history and the DVLA record before you travel.

What does a used Mercedes-Benz GLS cost to run?

What do GLS owners like about them?

It's a properly big car with a luxurious feel, and it doesn't hide the fact. If you like the look of a full-size American SUV, it brings that kind of road presence to British streets. It's not for anyone who wants to blend in or slip into tight spaces, but that's the point of buying one.

Getting into the third row is easier than on the older GL, because both sides of the middle row now fold right forward. That means passengers can climb into the back seats from either side, including the kerb side, which the old model couldn't manage and which had stopped it being registered as a seven-seat taxi in the UK.

• The GLS is noted for its substantial size and luxurious feel, providing a premium driving experience.
• This model is well-suited for drivers seeking a vehicle with a commanding presence on the road.
• Adjustable air suspension is included as standard equipment, enhancing ride comfort and handling.
• The centre row of seats now double-folds on both sides, improving access to the rearmost seats.