Second Hand Mercedes-Benz GLS Gearbox

The GLS spans two distinct generations: the X166 (2013–2019) and the X167 (2019–present), so a 2018 unit is X166 and a 2021 is X167 — these are different platforms and the gearbox is very unlikely to interchange directly. Engine codes are the decisive factor here, and crossing a generation boundary like this means you should confirm compatibility with the breaker against your exact registration before ordering. Never assume fitment based on year alone.

Both 2016 and 2017 GLS models sit within the same X166 generation (2013–2019), so if the engine codes match, fitment is generally consistent within those years. Match the engine code from your V5 or a VIN check to the donor vehicle's code — that is the single most reliable guide for a mechanical part like the gearbox. Confirm any ancillary or mounting details with the breaker against your registration, as minor mid-production changes can occur.

Trim level in itself — whether it is an AMG Line, Grand Edition, or standard specification — does not affect gearbox fitment; what matters is the engine code, because the 350d and 400d are different engines and will have different gearbox pairings. A GLS 350d carries a different engine code to the 400d, so the gearboxes from these two variants are not the same unit and should not be treated as interchangeable. Always match by engine code rather than badge or trim name, and confirm with the breaker.

The X166 GLS received a facelift in 2016, and while the fundamental platform remained the same through to 2019, ancillary and mounting details can change across a facelift point. Engine code matching is still the starting point, but whether a pre-2016 gearbox crosses that 2016 boundary cleanly into a post-facelift car is something you should confirm with the breaker against your specific registration. Do not assume a like-for-like swap without that check.

ECU pairing and immobiliser coding are real considerations on modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and whether a used gearbox will operate without adaptation work is not something we can state as fact here. You should confirm this directly with the breaker and factor in whether your preferred fitting garage or a Mercedes specialist can carry out any required coding. This is an important question to resolve before purchase, not after.

The GLS X166 and GLE X166 shared the same platform and some mechanical components, so engine code matching is again the starting point — if the codes align, there is a possibility of compatibility. However, whether the gearbox units interchange cleanly between GLS and GLE, including all ancillaries and mounts, is something you must confirm with the breaker quoting against both registrations. Cross-model fitment adds an extra layer of uncertainty that the breaker's hands-on experience is best placed to resolve.