MERCEDES GLS (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 983 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
93%
Total Tests (2024)
983
Avg Mileage
72,875 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,750
Is the 2016 MERCEDES GLS reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 11 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 8 years old, 93% of MERCEDES GLSs from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 983 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 72,875 miles.
How does the 2016 MERCEDES GLS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 MERCEDES GLS has 72,875 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
How much does a 2016 MERCEDES GLS cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES GLS by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES GLS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2016 MERCEDES GLS
The 2016 MERCEDES GLS is a large car with a 2987cc diesel engine. 983 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 20% of all 2016 cars for reliability.
With an average of 72,875 miles at 8 years old, MERCEDES GLS owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2016 MERCEDES GLS Fuel Costs
The 2987cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2016 MERCEDES GLS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,750 (£146/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 93% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
MERCEDES GLS Reliability Trend
The MERCEDES GLS has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 MERCEDES GLS
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage.
Alternatives to the 2016 MERCEDES GLS
The MERCEDES GLS is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES GLC (2018) 91% pass rate (-2%) from 40,494 tests
- AUDI A5 (2017) 89% pass rate (-4%) from 33,531 tests
- FORD RANGER (2018) 85% pass rate (-8%) from 30,840 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER VELAR (2018) 91% pass rate (-2%) from 29,640 tests