Mercedes GL-Class 2017 Oil Type: Perfect & Proven
For your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the perfect and proven oil type is a full synthetic 0W-40 or 5W-40 engine oil that meets the MB-Approval 229.5 specification. Using the correct oil ensures optimal engine performance, longevity, and protection for your luxury SUV.
Keeping your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class running smoothly is a top priority for any owner. One of the most fundamental aspects of this is choosing the right engine oil. It might seem like a small detail, but using the incorrect oil can lead to a host of problems, from reduced fuel efficiency to serious engine damage. Many owners find themselves puzzled by the various oil types and specifications, leading to frustration and uncertainty.
This guide is here to clear up any confusion. We’ll break down exactly what your 2017 GL-Class needs, explain why it matters, and guide you through the process of selecting and even changing the oil yourself. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to keep your GL-Class’s engine in peak condition, protecting your investment and ensuring those luxurious drives continue for years to come. Let’s dive into the specifics.
Understanding Engine Oil for Your 2017 GL-Class
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It’s not just about lubrication; it performs several critical functions that keep your engine healthy and performing at its best. For a sophisticated machine like the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the demands on engine oil are significant.
What Does Engine Oil Actually Do?
Engine oil is responsible for a multitude of tasks within your engine:
- Lubrication: It forms a protective film between moving metal parts, reducing friction and wear. This is crucial for components like pistons, crankshafts, and camshafts.
- Cooling: While the coolant system does the heavy lifting, oil also carries away heat generated by friction and combustion, helping to prevent overheating.
- Cleaning: Modern engine oils contain detergents that suspend and remove carbon deposits, sludge, and other contaminants, keeping internal engine components clean.
- Sealing: Oil helps to create a seal between the piston rings and cylinder walls, improving compression and preventing combustion gases from leaking.
- Corrosion Protection: It forms a barrier that protects metal surfaces from rust and corrosion caused by acids and moisture.
Why Specifications Matter for Your GL-Class
Mercedes-Benz, like other major automakers, has rigorous standards for the engine oils used in their vehicles. These standards, known as MB-Approvals (Mercedes-Benz Approval), are much more than just a recommendation. They are a testament to an oil’s ability to meet or exceed the specific performance requirements of a particular Mercedes-Benz engine.
For the 2017 GL-Class, adhering to the specified MB-Approval is not optional; it’s essential. Oils that meet these strict criteria have been tested extensively by Mercedes-Benz to ensure they provide:
- Optimal viscosity at various temperatures.
- Superior wear protection.
- Enhanced fuel economy performance.
- Extended drain intervals when used as recommended.
- Compatibility with emission control systems.
Using an oil that doesn’t meet the required MB-Approval can void your warranty and, more importantly, compromise the long-term health of your GL-Class engine.
Choosing the Right Oil Type and Viscosity
The “perfect and proven” oil for your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is defined by its type and viscosity grade, along with a crucial approval code.
The Importance of Viscosity (e.g., 0W-40 vs. 5W-40)
Viscosity refers to a fluid’s resistance to flow. In engine oil, it’s described by a two-number system, like 0W-40 or 5W-40. The ‘W’ stands for ‘Winter,’ indicating how well the oil flows at low temperatures. The first number (0W or 5W) represents the oil’s viscosity at cold temperatures, while the second number (40) represents its viscosity at operating temperatures (typically 100°C or 212°F).
- Cold Starts: A lower ‘W’ number (like 0W) means the oil is thinner when cold. This allows it to reach critical engine parts faster during startup, significantly reducing wear – especially important in colder climates.
- High Temperatures: The second number (e.g., 40) indicates the oil’s thickness at engine operating temperatures. A higher number means the oil is thicker and provides better protection under high-heat conditions.
For the 2017 GL-Class, both 0W-40 and 5W-40 are commonly specified, with 0W-40 often being the preferred choice for its superior cold-weather performance and often better fuel economy benefits.
The Crucial MB-Approval 229.5 Specification
This is perhaps the most critical piece of information. Mercedes-Benz has specific approvals for engine oils that guarantee they meet their exacting standards for performance, durability, and environmental compatibility. For most gasoline engines in the 2017 GL-Class models, the required specification is MB-Approval 229.5.
You won’t find this specification on just any off-the-shelf oil. It designates oils that have undergone rigorous testing by the manufacturer and are proven to:
- Offer excellent protection against wear and deposits.
- Contribute to fuel economy improvements.
- Maintain their performance over extended drain intervals.
- Ensure compatibility with modern emission systems like catalytic converters.
Always look for the MB-Approval 229.5 logo or text clearly printed on the oil bottle. Using an oil that doesn’t have this specific approval, even if it’s the correct viscosity, is not recommended and can potentially cause harm.
Recommended Oil Brands and Specifications Table
Here’s a quick reference for common, reputable brands that typically offer oils meeting the specifications for your 2017 GL-Class. Always double-check the bottle for the exact MB-Approval 229.5.
| Oil Brand | Typical Viscosity & MB-Approval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mobil 1 | 0W-40 (Meets MB-Approval 229.5) | Often a top-tier choice, widely available. |
| Liqui Moly | 0W-40 (Meets MB-Approval 229.5) | German brand known for high-quality lubricants. |
| Castrol Edge | 0W-40 (Meets MB-Approval 229.5) | Another well-regarded synthetic oil. |
| Valvoline SynPower | 0W-40 (Meets MB-Approval 229.5) | A solid synthetic option. |
| Pennzoil Platinum / Ultra Platinum | 0W-40 (Meets MB-Approval 229.5) | Specifically look for versions with the 229.5 approval. |
| Motul | Specific products meeting MB-Approval 229.5 and 0W-40 or 5W-40 viscosity. | High-performance synthetic oils. |
Referencing the official Mercedes-Benz technical information can provide further details on approved fluids.
When to Change Your Oil
Regular oil changes are one of the most effective ways to ensure the longevity and performance of your 2017 GL-Class. Sticking to the recommended schedule is crucial.
Understanding the Maintenance Schedule
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are equipped with sophisticated computer systems that often monitor your driving conditions and oil life. The Active Service System (ASSYST) or a similar indicator in your instrument cluster will typically alert you when your vehicle is due for a service, including an oil change.
However, it’s wise to understand the general guidelines provided in your owner’s manual. For most 2017 GL-Class models using full synthetic oil meeting MB-Approval 229.5, the interval is generally:
- Mileage: Approximately every 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,000 to 24,000 kilometers).
- Time: At least once a year, even if you don’t reach the mileage limit. Oil degrades over time due to oxidation and contamination.
Factors like frequent short trips, heavy towing, extreme temperatures, or driving in dusty conditions can shorten the oil life. Your vehicle’s ASSYST system usually accounts for these variables to provide a more accurate service recommendation.
Signs Your Oil Might Need Changing Sooner
Beyond the service indicator, be aware of these potential signs:
- Dark and Dirty Oil: While a little darkness is normal, if the oil is black, thick, or gritty, it’s likely past its prime. Take a look at the dipstick – the oil should be relatively clear and amber-colored when new.
- Low Oil Level: Regularly check your oil level. If it’s consistently dropping significantly between changes (beyond normal consumption), it could indicate a leak or other issue.
- Unusual Engine Noise: If your engine starts making knocking or ticking sounds, it could be a sign of inadequate lubrication, so check your oil level and condition immediately.
- Oil Smell or Smoke: If you can smell burning oil inside the cabin or see smoke from the exhaust, it’s a critical warning sign.
How Much Oil Does Your 2017 GL-Class Need?
The exact oil capacity for your 2017 GL-Class depends on the specific engine model. Always consult your owner’s manual for the definitive answer. However, typical capacities are as follows:
Engine Oil Capacity by Engine Type
The 2017 GL-Class was available with a few different engine options. Here are the approximate oil capacities:
| Engine Type | Approximate Oil Capacity (Quarts / Liters) |
|---|---|
| GL 350d 4MATIC (Diesel) | 7.2 – 7.7 quarts / 6.8 – 7.3 liters |
| GL 450 4MATIC (Gasoline) | 8.5 quarts / 8.0 liters |
| GL 550 4MATIC (Gasoline) | 8.5 quarts / 8.0 liters |
Important Note: These are approximate values. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact capacity of your specific vehicle. Overfilling or underfilling can be detrimental to your engine.
DIY Oil Change for Your 2017 GL-Class: A Step-by-Step Guide
Performing your own oil change can save money and give you a sense of accomplishment. Here’s a simplified guide, but remember to proceed with caution and proper safety.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Gathering the right tools beforehand makes the process much smoother. You will need:
- The correct engine oil: Full synthetic 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting MB-Approval 229.5 (ensure you have enough quarts/liters for your specific model, plus a little extra).
- A new oil filter specifically for your 2017 GL-Class. Mercedes-Benz part numbers or equivalent high-quality aftermarket filters are recommended.
- A new drain plug crush washer (highly recommended to prevent leaks).
- An oil filter wrench that fits your Mercedes-Benz filter housing.
- A socket wrench set, likely including a 13mm or similar size for the drain plug.
- A drain pan large enough to hold all the old oil.
- A funnel for adding the new oil.
- Rags or shop towels.
- Gloves and eye protection for safety.
- Jack stands or ramps to safely lift and support the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- A torque wrench (recommended for tightening the drain plug to the correct specification).
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
1. Warm Up the Engine (Slightly): Start the engine and let it run for about 5-10 minutes. This warms the oil, making it flow more easily, but don’t let it get too hot, as you’ll be working underneath.
2. Safely Lift the Vehicle: Park on a level surface. Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and support it securely with jack stands placed on designated lift points. If using ramps, drive the vehicle onto them carefully.
3. Locate the Oil Drain Plug: Look underneath the engine for the oil pan, usually a metal reservoir at the bottom. The drain plug is a bolt on the lowest point of the oil pan. The oil filter housing is typically a large plastic or metal canister nearby.
4. Position the Drain Pan: Place your drain pan directly beneath the oil drain plug.
5. Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Be prepared for the oil to flow out immediately; it will be hot. Let all the old oil drain completely into the pan. This can take 10-15 minutes.
6. Replace the Drain Plug and Washer: Once drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it snugly. Then, use a torque wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer’s specified torque (check your manual or a reliable service guide for the exact torque, typically around 15-25 Nm). Over-tightening can strip the threads.
7. Remove the Oil Filter: Place the drain pan under the oil filter housing. Use your oil filter wrench to loosen the housing. Once loose, unscrew it by hand. Be aware that more oil will drain out from the filter housing. Remove the old oil filter and its rubber O-ring (if applicable). Clean the filter housing.
8. Install the New Oil Filter: Lightly coat the new filter’s rubber O-ring with new engine oil. Install the new oil filter and screw the housing back on until it’s snug, then tighten it according to the filter manufacturer’s recommendations (often 3/4 to 1 full turn past hand-tight, or to a specific torque setting if provided).
9. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
10. Add New Oil: Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap (usually marked with an oil can symbol). Remove the cap and insert your funnel. Slowly pour in the recommended amount of new, correct oil for your engine. Start with slightly less than the total capacity and check later.
11. Check the Oil Level: Replace the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. Turn off the engine and wait about 5-10 minutes for the oil to settle. Use your dipstick (if equipped) or the electronic oil level measurement system via your dashboard to check the level. Add more oil in small increments if needed, until it reaches the MAX mark, but do not overfill.
12. Reset the Service Indicator: Your Mercedes-Benz will need its service reminder reset. The procedure varies slightly by model year, but typically involves a sequence of button presses on your steering wheel or instrument cluster. Consult your owner’s manual for exact instructions.
13. Dispose of Old Oil Properly: Do not pour old oil down the drain or into the environment. Take it to an auto parts store, recycling center, or local waste disposal facility that accepts used motor oil.
For a visual demonstration, searching for a video guide specific to your 2017 GL-Class model on platforms like YouTube can be incredibly helpful. Here’s a general guide on resetting the service indicator on Mercedes-Benz vehicles: Mercedes-Benz USA – Reset Service Indicator.
Troubleshooting Common Oil-Related Issues
Even with the best intentions, you might encounter minor issues. Here’s how to address them.
What If the Oil Light Stays On?
If the oil pressure warning light (typically a red oil can symbol) remains illuminated after starting the engine, or comes on while driving, it indicates a serious
