Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz G-Class W463 (2018 on) buying guide
The second-generation W463 G-Class, on sale in the UK from July 2018, came with a nine-speed automatic and three locking differentials. Most of the earlier car's main issues had been sorted by launch.
The versions
- G350d (from summer 2019): OM656 2.9 litre straight-six diesel, 286PS
- G400d (replaced the G350d within 18 months): the same straight-six diesel, 325bhp
- G63 AMG: 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 petrol, 585PS (577bhp), covered separately
- Nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic
- 4Matic four-wheel drive with low range and three locking differentials
What to check on a 2018-on G-Class
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Recall work
What to look for: Ask a Mercedes dealer, with the registration or VIN, to print the recall history and confirm every recall is done.
Why it matters: This generation had been recalled 15 times by early 2025, including seat belt buckles, wiring harnesses and child locks (August 2020), transmission casings (late 2020), crash sensors (August 2021), coolant and fuel leaks (2022), chafing wiring and fuel pumps (2023), rear axle casings (August 2024) and automatic transmissions (March 2025). A complete record is reassuring.
Suspension springs and off-road use
What to look for: On the drive, go over speed bumps or rough ground and listen for a loud thumping from the suspension. Look underneath for scrapes and damage that suggest heavy off-road use, and check the car sits level.
Why it matters: Springs can break after heavy off-road use, and a loud thump over bumps is probably a broken spring. Signs of enthusiastic off-roading are worth weighing up.
Screens and electrics
What to look for: Check every function of the digital instrument and infotainment screens, and test all the electrical equipment, from seats and windows to the air conditioning and driver aids. Watch for warning lights.
Why it matters: Electronics and electrics are the most likely source of faults on this G-Class, and the smart instrument screens in particular should be checked.
Also in the full guide
- Differential locks and rear axle oil
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 2018-on G-Class
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mercedes-Benz.