Mercedes-Benz GLS Cylinder Head Replacement Parts

The GLS in its first generation ran from 2016 to 2019, so a 2016 and a 2017 are within the same generation, and fitment is primarily driven by engine code rather than model year. If both cars share the same engine code — which you can find on your V5C or via a VIN check — the cylinder head is very likely compatible. Always confirm with the breaker against your exact registration before buying, as ancillary or mounting details can vary within a production run.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS first generation ran from 2016 to 2019, with the second generation (X167) arriving from 2019 onwards — this is a full model change rather than a facelift, meaning the two generations share very little mechanically. A cylinder head from the pre-2019 first-generation GLS is extremely unlikely to interchange with a second-generation X167 car, but the engine code on your V5C or VIN check is the definitive test. Route this question directly to the breaker with both registration numbers to confirm compatibility.

Trim level does not affect cylinder head fitment on the Mercedes-Benz GLS — AMG Line, Sport, and standard trims all use the same mechanical units tied to the engine code. What trim level can affect is cosmetic and interior items, so if a breaker is supplying ancillary parts alongside the head, be aware that trim-related covers or decorative engine dressing may differ. Focus on matching the engine code above everything else, and confirm with the breaker against your registration.

Yes — fuel type is critical for cylinder head fitment, as petrol and diesel units are entirely different in design, combustion chamber layout, and often head bolt pattern. Never attempt to fit a diesel cylinder head to a petrol engine or vice versa, regardless of what year or generation the donor car is from. Supply the breaker with your engine code from the V5C to confirm you are being quoted the correct unit for your fuel type.

The GL-Class ran until around 2015 and was replaced and renamed the GLS from 2016 onwards, so the two cover different generations of platform and engine. Where engine codes happen to carry over between the two model names there may be compatibility, but this is not something to assume without checking. Give the breaker both registration numbers and your engine code so they can verify whether the specific part numbers align before you commit to buying.

Gearbox type does not directly determine cylinder head specification, but it is a useful detail for the breaker because it helps them confirm they are looking at the correct donor vehicle variant. The engine code on your V5C remains the single most important piece of information for matching a cylinder head correctly. Provide both the engine code and gearbox type to the breaker so they can cross-reference against their stock and confirm fitment against your registration.