Mercedes-Benz G55 Problems by Year

We compared every Mercedes-Benz G55 model year from 2002–2005 using 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, 3 recalls and federal defect investigations. No G55 year stands out with an unusual number of complaints. The best years are 2002 and 2004.

3model years
3complaints
3recalls
—worst years
2002, 2004best years

Complaints by model year

20022004200521
Owner complaints per model year, Mercedes-Benz G55. Colour = our verdict for that year (red: avoid, orange: caution, green: better than average, blue: too new).
YearComplaintsvs. typical*RecallsTop problemVerdict
200511.5×2SeatFew
20040−20%2—Few
20022−20%2Fuel SystemFew

* Complaints compared with the median G55 year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.

Most common Mercedes-Benz G55 problems

  • Fuel & propulsion systemworst: 2002
    267%
  • Seatsworst: 2005
    133%

Latest Mercedes-Benz G55 recalls

Structure

NHTSA recall 12V-380 · Aug 6, 2012 · 189 vehicles

Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011 G550 and G55 (AMG) vehicles manufactured from September 20, 2010, through April 27, 2011. During the front passenger air bag deployment, parts of the molding strip could potentially become loose and become a projectile in the passenger compartment.

Remedy: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will reinforce the connection between the molding strip and air bag cover flap, free of charge. The safety recall began on October 26, 2012.

Exterior lighting › Turn signal

NHTSA recall 10V-366 · Aug 5, 2010 · 3,552 vehicles

Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2002-2010 g-class vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "'lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these vehicles are equipped with a grill cover for front turn signal protection that, while permissible,…

Remedy: Dealers will install improved turn light units optimized for usage with grills. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin at the end of December 2010 or early January 2011.

Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

NHTSA recall 05V-378 · Aug 29, 2005 · 487 vehicles

On certain sport utility vehicles, the fuel return hose between fuel tank and return line can be permeated with fuel. This situation results from the expansion and contraction of the hose under pressure causing microcracks in the hose material.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace all fuel return hoses with the appropriate hoses free of charge. The recall began on September 27, 2005. Owners May contact Mercedes Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

All 3 Mercedes-Benz G55 recalls by year →

Frequently asked questions

What years of the Mercedes-Benz G55 should you avoid?

None of the Mercedes-Benz G55 years has an unusually high number of complaints compared with the others at the same age.

What is the best year for the Mercedes-Benz G55?

2002 has the fewest complaints compared with other G55 years at the same age, followed by 2004. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz G55 problems?

Across all years, owners report the most problems with the fuel & propulsion system (2) and seats (1). Fuel System complaints peak in the 2002 model year.

How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz G55 had?

3 recalls across 2002–2005. The model year with the most is 2002. See all Mercedes-Benz G55 recalls by year.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.