According to Au7o's analysis of 5,400+ owner reports, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 17 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are Air Suspension Compressor Failure ($600-$2,500 repair), Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start ($400-$1,200 repair), OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak ($1,500-$6,000 repair), M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE 550) Timing Chain Tensioner / Camshaft Adjuster Cold-Start Rattle ($1,800-$6,500 repair) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Sudden Loss of Assist - "Power Steering Malfunction, See Operator's Manual" ($400-$5,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Air Suspension Compressor Failure with 1,800 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 5,400+ owner reports, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 17 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Air Suspension Compressor Failure, Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start, OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 17 known issues documented across 5,400+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Air Suspension Compressor Failure and Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start and OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak and M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE 550) Timing Chain Tensioner / Camshaft Adjuster Cold-Start Rattle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Sudden Loss of Assist - "Power Steering Malfunction, See Operator's Manual". Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?
Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz GLE issues range from $0 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Air Suspension Compressor Failure, typically costs $600-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Air Suspension Compressor Failure?
The AIRMATIC compressor fails prematurely on the GLE, typically after one or more air springs develop slow leaks. The heavy SUV puts more stress on the compressor than sedan applications, accelerating wear. Repairs typically run $600-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start?
On diesel GLEs, the SCR/AdBlue emissions system enforces compliance with a start countdown: when it detects a fault it warns 'You can restart the engine X more times,' and once the counter expires the car will not start until the fault is fixed and the counter is reset. The most… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
Filter:
When Issues Typically Appear
COMAND/MBUX Infotainment Freeze
10K-60K
Diesel DPF Regeneration Issues
40K-90K
Air Suspension Compressor Failure
50K-100K
Rear Differential Oil Leak
50K-100K
4MATIC Transfer Case Chain Stretch and Bearing Wear
60K-120K
038K75K113K150K mi
On the 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the W166 GLE 250d and GLE 350d (2015-2019, OM651 2.1L twin-turbo / OM642-related diesels) have a documented pattern of turbocharger bearing collapse and EGR cooler failure, typically appearing between roughly 75,000 and 95,000 miles. Frequent short trips and DPF regeneration cycles cause oil coking in the turbo, leading to sudden power loss, limp mode, whining/grinding and blue smoke. Separately, thermal stress cracks the EGR cooler, contaminating engine oil with coolant (milky oil-cap residue, unexplained coolant loss, misfires). Delphi piezo injector coking on the OM651 compounds rough running and misfires. This is distinct from the routine DPF-regeneration issue already catalogued.
Address oil coking proactively: use correct low-SAPS diesel oil, change at shorter intervals, and allow the turbo to cool before shutdown after motorway runs. On failure, replace the turbocharger and clear oil-feed/return lines of coking; severe bearing failures that ingest debris often require an engine rebuild or replacement. A leaking EGR cooler must be replaced and the cooling/oil system flushed. Coked injectors require cleaning or replacement and recoding.
On the 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8, the M278 4.7L biturbo V8 used in the GLE 550 4MATIC (W166/C292) has a complex timing drive with one primary chain and two secondary chains, each with its own tensioner. On early engines the secondary chain tensioners lose oil pressure during shutdown because they lack anti-drainback check valves, so on cold start the chains and camshaft adjusters run momentarily dry and rattle loudly for the first 2-5 seconds until oil pressure builds. Left unaddressed, chain slack, worn guide rails, and worn camshaft adjusters can advance to camshaft-correlation faults and, in the worst case, timing jump. This is distinct from the M276 V6 camshaft-adjuster rattle: it is the V8 M278's multi-chain oil-starvation design, and Mercedes issued a service fix (TSB LI05.10-P-056435) adding oil check valves plus revised secondary tensioners for engines up to a specific engine-number cutoff (278 9xx).
Loud rattle or chatter for the first 2-5 seconds on cold start
Metallic timing-chain/rattle noise from front of engine
Check engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes in worse cases
Noise diminishes once oil pressure builds
How to Fix
Install the revised secondary timing chain tensioners together with the oil anti-drainback check valves in the cylinder-head oil passages per the Mercedes service procedure; inspect and replace worn chain guide rails and the camshaft adjuster (solenoid) units as needed. If the primary chain is stretched, a full timing chain/guide service is required. Verify no cam/crank correlation codes remain after repair.
On the 2016-2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the W166 GLE 350 and GLE 400 (2016-2018, M276 3.0L/3.5L V6) share the well-known M276 camshaft-adjuster problem. The variable-valve-timing camshaft adjusters and their magnets/solenoids wear, allowing the cams to fall out of time. Symptoms include a 2-3 second rattle on cold start, rough running, and check-engine codes such as P0010-style adjuster faults; owners report codes like P002177 with cams found advanced/out of time. Left unaddressed, a worn adjuster can cause poor timing control and driveability problems.
Read the cam-correlation/adjuster DTCs and inspect the intake and exhaust camshaft adjusters and adjuster magnets. Replace worn camshaft adjusters (often with an updated timing chain kit and tensioner) and the adjuster solenoids on the affected bank, then re-verify cam timing. Using correct-spec oil and timely oil changes helps prevent adjuster sludging.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Mechanically confirmed bank-1 intake adjuster failure on the cataloged 2016-2018 GLE350 M276.955 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
On the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the GLE uses fluid-filled (hydraulic) engine and transmission mounts to isolate NVH. These are a known consumable that ruptures and leaks its damping fluid, often well before 60-70k miles. A collapsed mount transmits noticeable vibration through the steering wheel, seats, and floor at idle/in-gear, plus a thump or clunk when shifting or accelerating. A dark oily stain under the mount confirms rupture. Ignoring it can chafe hoses/belts and accelerate driveline wear.
Vibration through steering wheel/seat at idle or in gear
Thump/clunk when shifting into Drive or Reverse
Shudder on acceleration
Oily fluid stain under engine mount
Vibration worsens when A/C is on
How to Fix
Inspect mounts on a lift for fluid leakage and excess movement; replace in pairs. On W167 the electronic (sensor-equipped) engine mounts are left A1672407200 and right A1672407300 (167-240-72-00 / 167-240-73-00); W166 (2016-2019) GLE350/400 use the non-sensor 166-series mounts, and a matching transmission mount is often replaced at the same time. Parts $150-350 each; independent labor brings a pair to roughly $400-1,200 total.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Lemforder W166 left engine mount 1662405817
OEMLemforder 1662405817
Confirmed failed left engine mount on the specifically listed W166 GLE branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page identifies Lemforder 1662405817 as the left engine mount and lists GLE350, GLE400, GLE43 AMG and GLE450 AM…
Confirmed failed right engine mount on the specifically listed W166 GLE branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page identifies Lemforder 1662405917 as the right engine mount and explicitly lists GLE350, GLE400 and GLE450 …
Confirmed failed engine-mount set for the specifically cataloged W167 GLE350 M264 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. kit page identifies genuine Mercedes W167 engine mounts and hardware for cataloged GLE350 M264 appli…
On the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the AIRMATIC compressor fails prematurely on the GLE, typically after one or more air springs develop slow leaks. The heavy SUV puts more stress on the compressor than sedan applications, accelerating wear.
Replace the compressor and relay. Leak-test all four air springs and replace any that are leaking. The compressor runs $400-800 for aftermarket (Arnott) or $1,200+ OEM.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
High Confidence1,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
On the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, both W166 (2016-2019) and W167 (2020+) GLEs wear out the front lower control arm bushings. The lower arm carries multiple rubber bushings (including a rear 'lollipop' mount to the body) that tear with age, producing a clunk/knock over bumps, a wandering or vague feeling in the steering, and uneven front tire wear. It is one of the most common GLE front-end noise complaints and shows up regardless of whether the car has AIRMATIC or steel springs.
Lift and inspect the bushings for tears and wiggle the wheel to reproduce the noise. Either press in a new OE-quality bushing set or replace the complete lower control arm assembly — W167 genuine arms are left A1673300700 and right A1673300800 (167-330-07-00 / 167-330-08-00); W166 uses the 166-series arms/bushings. An alignment is required afterward. Bushing set is cheaper but labor-intensive; full arms run $150-300 each. Job total typically $400-1,000 with alignment.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Lemforder W166 front lower control-arm bushing kit KIT-1663300143
OEMFCP KIT-1663300143
Confirmed failed W166 front lower control-arm bushing branch when the arms and ball joints remain serviceable Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
Lemforder W167 front lower control-arm pair KIT-1673300800
OEMFCP KIT-1673300800
Confirmed failed W167 left-and-right lower control-arm replacement branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN, suspension/options and failed ar
On the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE, on diesel GLEs, the SCR/AdBlue emissions system enforces compliance with a start countdown: when it detects a fault it warns 'You can restart the engine X more times,' and once the counter expires the car will not start until the fault is fixed and the counter is reset. The most common root cause is a failed upstream or downstream NOx sensor giving out-of-range readings; other causes are AdBlue crystallization, a blocked dosing valve, or low-quality fluid. Topping up AdBlue does NOT clear the countdown.
'Start engine X more times' AdBlue countdown warning
'Check AdBlue / see owner's manual' message
No-start after countdown expires
Check-engine light with NOx/SCR codes
Reduced power / limp mode
How to Fix
Scan with XENTRY/compatible tool and read live NOx sensor, dosing, and SCR temperature data to pinpoint the failed component. Replace the faulty NOx sensor — OM642/OM651-era downstream sensor is part number 0009058611 (also 000905350364 for the pre-SCR sensor); newer OM654/OM656 diesels use NOx sensor 000-905-48-07 (0009054807). Then have the SCR no-start counter reset (requires dealer/specialist software; it will not clear on its own). NOx sensor part ~$150-350; diagnosis + sensor + reset typically $400-1,200.
On the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE, gLE owners (W166 and W167) report sudden loss of electric power steering assist, sometimes immediately after engine start and sometimes intermittently while driving, accompanied by the red dashboard message "Power Steering Malfunction - See Operator's Manual." Steering becomes very heavy, especially at low/parking speeds. Because EPS relies on stable voltage, CAN/FlexRay communication, and accurate sensor data, causes are almost always electrical: EPS control-module/torque-sensor faults, a corroded/loose steering-rack ground or harness connection, a blown power-steering pre-fuse, or a weak 12V battery dropping voltage to the EPS motor. NHTSA recall 16V899000 covers 2016-2017 GLE (350/400/300d/550e/43/63, etc.) where an insufficiently sealed EPS connector lets water into the control unit and deactivates assist, and TSB MC-10231025 addresses a no-assist-after-start software fault of the N68 EPS control unit on later models. This is an electronic EPS-rack fault, separate from mechanical front control-arm bushing wear.
"Power Steering Malfunction, See Operator's Manual" red warning message
Sudden heavy / hard-to-turn steering, worst at parking speeds
Intermittent loss and return of power assist after restart
Steering warning light illuminated
Occasional correlation with low/weak 12V battery
How to Fix
Diagnose with XENTRY for C15xx EPS codes; first rule out and correct low battery voltage, a blown power-steering pre-fuse, and corroded/loose steering-rack ground and power connectors (common fixable causes). Check VIN for recall 16V899000 (connector reseal + rack inspection/replacement) and applicable EPS software TSBs. If the fault is internal, the EPS control unit / torque sensor or the complete electric steering rack is replaced (or reconditioned) and coded to the vehicle.
On the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the GLE uses a small secondary AGM 'auxiliary' battery (separate from the main starter battery and the 48V mild-hybrid battery) that stabilizes voltage for the electrical/stop-start system. It is a known wear item that typically dies at 4-6 years, throwing a persistent 'Auxiliary battery malfunction – Visit workshop' message. On W166 (2016-2019) it lives under the rear seat / luggage area; on W167 it is in the engine bay area. Symptoms include the dash warning, flaky start-stop, random electrical gremlins, and occasionally a no-start. This is one of the most-searched GLE electrical complaints.
Replace the auxiliary battery – it is a straightforward ~20-minute DIY. Genuine Mercedes OEM auxiliary battery is 12V 12Ah 200A, part number A0009829608 (000 982 96 08); OE-equivalent AGM units are sold as 'AUX14' / EK131 cross-references. After replacement no coding is required on most years, though a battery reset via diagnostic scanner clears residual faults. Genuine part runs ~$120-180; independent shop install ~$150-450 total.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
On the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the GLE's full-LED / MULTIBEAM headlights are ventilated for heat, but when the factory seal or housing gasket fails, humid air enters and heavy condensation forms — large droplets and standing water at the bottom of the housing (not the light misting Mercedes considers normal). Because the LED modules and ballast/control electronics are not individually serviceable, trapped moisture corrodes them and causes flicker, partial-out DRL/turn segments, or complete headlight failure, forcing a very expensive full assembly replacement.
Distinguish normal light fog (clears with use) from a failed seal (droplets/pooling/tide-marks). For early cases Mercedes has a service bulletin using an absorbent desiccant pad and resealing the housing. Once electronics/LED modules fail, the full headlight assembly must be replaced — MULTIBEAM units are among the priciest body-electrical parts on the car. Document moisture and pursue warranty/goodwill where possible. Reseal ~$150-400; full LED/MULTIBEAM assembly $1,200-2,500+ per side.
On the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE, gLE plug-in hybrids (W166 550e; W167 350de diesel-PHEV and 450e) frequently show AC-charging faults: charging starts then stops and restarts, a red plug icon, or the car refuses to accept a charge at home/wallbox. Documented triggers include the vehicle halting when the voltage difference between supply phases exceeds ~19V, a weak 12V battery (below ~12.4V the car can't initiate HV charging), a stuck/corroded charge-port latch, or software glitches throwing false charging warnings.
Common Symptoms
Charging starts then stops and restarts repeatedly
Red plug icon / charging fault message
Car will not accept a home charge
Charge port door stuck or won't latch
False charging warnings that clear on reset
How to Fix
Start with a hard reset: lock the car, wait ~15 minutes, unlock and re-plug. Verify the 12V battery health (must be healthy to command HV charging) and check the charge-port door/latch for debris or corrosion. Test on a known-good EVSE/wallbox to rule out supply phase-imbalance. If a red-plug fault persists, a dealer XENTRY scan of the onboard charger/HV system and a software update are usually needed. DIY checks are free; dealer diagnosis/charge-port or software work $200-1,500.
On the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the infotainment system (COMAND on 2016-2019, MBUX on 2020+) freezes or reboots. The COMAND hard drive fails over time while the MBUX system is susceptible to software glitches with connected phones.
For COMAND: update firmware and check the internal hard drive health. For MBUX: perform a reboot (hold volume + track-forward 10 seconds) and update software. Disconnect phone to test if the issue is CarPlay/Android Auto related.
Owner tips & cautions
TipDelete and re-pair your phone Bluetooth connection. Corrupted phone pairing profiles cause the majority of MBUX freeze events.
Medium Confidence1,300 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
700 owners
On the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the 4MATIC transfer case on 2016+ GLE develops two related failures over time: stretched drive chains (which cause a metallic rattle or grinding noise from under the vehicle, most audible at low speeds or under light acceleration) and worn output-shaft bearings (which produce a whine that changes pitch with vehicle speed). Severe wear can cause torque-distribution problems and, if ignored, eventual transfer case failure requiring full unit replacement.
Diagnose with a stethoscope or chassis ear to confirm the noise originates from the transfer case (rather than the rear differential or driveshaft carrier bearing). Drain and inspect the transfer case fluid: metal flakes confirm internal wear. Early chain stretch can sometimes be addressed with a fluid change and a chain replacement; advanced bearing wear typically requires full transfer case replacement. OEM Mercedes transfer cases run $3,000-$6,000 plus 4-8 hours labor; rebuilt units from specialty shops are 30-50% cheaper.
Owner tips & cautions
TipThe actuator motor is a bolt-on replacement. If you are handy, this is a 2-hour DIY job. The motor itself is $200-400 — shops charge $800+ for labor.
Medium Confidence700 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
600 owners
On the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the rear differential develops a leak at the pinion seal or cover gasket. Fluid loss causes differential whine and, if left unaddressed, can lead to bearing and gear damage from insufficient lubrication.
Common Symptoms
Oil drip from rear differential area
Whining noise from rear at highway speed
How to Fix
Replace the leaking pinion seal or differential cover gasket. Refill with the correct GL-5 75W-85 gear oil. Inspect the differential gears and bearings for damage if the fluid level was critically low.
Owner tips & cautions
TipCheck the rear differential fluid level at every oil change. A slow leak may not leave visible drips but can cause damage over time.
Medium Confidence600 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
1,000 owners
On the 2016-2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 3.0L OM642 V6 Diesel, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogs prematurely, especially on vehicles used primarily for short trips. Failed regeneration cycles cause reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and eventually limp mode.
Force a DPF regeneration cycle using a diagnostic tool. If the DPF is heavily clogged, a professional cleaning service can restore it for $300-500. In severe cases, DPF replacement runs $2,000-4,000. Drive at highway speed for 30+ minutes regularly to allow passive regeneration.
Owner tips & cautions
TipTake the GLE diesel on a 30-minute highway drive once a week minimum. Short city trips prevent passive DPF regeneration and lead to premature clogging.
High Confidence1,000 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
On the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the large panoramic roof has four corner drain tubes that route rainwater down the pillars. Over time the tubes clog with dirt/pollen/debris and the perimeter rubber seals degrade, so water backs up and drips onto the headliner, A-pillars, and front footwells, or pools and causes musty smell/mold. Owners also report a persistent creak/rattle from the roof over bumps caused by loose drip-rail cover clips and dry sunroof tracks. This is distinct from the A/C drain-hose footwell recall – the source here is the roof drains/seals.
Water dripping from headliner or A-pillar in rain / car wash
Damp front footwells or carpet
Musty / moldy smell
Creaking or rattling from roof over bumps
Water stains on headliner
How to Fix
Have the sunroof drain tubes flushed with low-pressure water or compressed air at each corner (a common wet-vac/blow-out service); replace degraded perimeter seals if leaking persists. For the rattle, re-seat or replace the drip-rail cover clips (often warranty/goodwill with a foam or double-sided-tape shim) and lubricate the sunroof guide rails with Mercedes-approved sunroof grease. Preventive drain cleaning every 1-2 years avoids interior water damage. Drain cleaning ~$100-200; seal/track service higher if headliner or trim is affected.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
On the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the GLE power tailgate uses a motorized spindle drive on the passenger side plus a gas strut on the driver side, managed by a dedicated Tailgate/rear-compartment control module. A very common complaint is the gate opening a few inches then stopping or immediately re-closing, intermittent operation, or the gate not moving at all. Causes range from a weak battery/blown fuse (F152 30A, F154 40A) to a failed spindle-drive motor to a control-module internal error (fault code B224E49).
Tailgate opens a few inches then stops or re-closes
Power liftgate completely dead
Intermittent open/close operation
Gate reverses mid-cycle
Buzzing from spindle drive with no movement
How to Fix
First check fuses F152/F154 and battery health, then perform the manual liftgate reset/re-initialization. Mercedes has a TSB for module fault B224E49 whose fix is a dealer software update and re-coding (no parts). If a spindle drive is mechanically failed, replace the passenger-side actuator; the rear-liftgate control module (genuine W166 part A1669008512 / 166-900-85-12) is the unit re-coded or replaced for control faults. Reset/recode is low cost; spindle-drive or module replacement $300-1,300.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Mercedes-Benz W166 right power-liftgate drive spindle A1668900000
OEMMercedes-Benz A1668900000
Mechanically confirmed right motorized liftgate spindle failure on an applicable W166 GLE SUV Fitment/availability: The inspected live U.S.
What is the 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak?
The W166 GLE 250d and GLE 350d (2015-2019, OM651 2.1L twin-turbo / OM642-related diesels) have a documented pattern of turbocharger bearing collapse and EGR cooler failure, typically appearing between roughly 75,000 and 95,000 miles. Frequent short trips and DPF regeneration cycl… Repairs typically run $1,500-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE 550) Timing Chain Tensioner / Camshaft Adjuster Cold-Start Rattle?
The M278 4.7L biturbo V8 used in the GLE 550 4MATIC (W166/C292) has a complex timing drive with one primary chain and two secondary chains, each with its own tensioner. On early engines the secondary chain tensioners lose oil pressure during shutdown because they lack anti-drainb… Repairs typically run $1,800-$6,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Electric Power Steering (EPS) Sudden Loss of Assist - "Power Steering Malfunction, See Operator's Manual"?
GLE owners (W166 and W167) report sudden loss of electric power steering assist, sometimes immediately after engine start and sometimes intermittently while driving, accompanied by the red dashboard message "Power Steering Malfunction - See Operator's Manual." Steering becomes ve… Repairs typically run $400-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE Diesel DPF Regeneration Issues?
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogs prematurely, especially on vehicles used primarily for short trips. Failed regeneration cycles cause reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and eventually limp mode. Repairs typically run $300-$4,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 4MATIC Transfer Case Chain Stretch and Bearing Wear?
The 4MATIC transfer case on 2016+ GLE develops two related failures over time: stretched drive chains (which cause a metallic rattle or grinding noise from under the vehicle, most audible at low speeds or under light acceleration) and worn output-shaft bearings (which produce a w… Repairs typically run $2,000-$7,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Rear Differential Oil Leak?
The rear differential develops a leak at the pinion seal or cover gasket. Fluid loss causes differential whine and, if left unaddressed, can lead to bearing and gear damage from insufficient lubrication. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Auxiliary (Backup) 12V Battery Failure Triggering "Auxiliary Battery Malfunction – Visit Workshop"?
The GLE uses a small secondary AGM 'auxiliary' battery (separate from the main starter battery and the 48V mild-hybrid battery) that stabilizes voltage for the electrical/stop-start system. It is a known wear item that typically dies at 4-6 years, throwing a persistent 'Auxiliary… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear Causing Clunk and Steering Wander?
Both W166 (2016-2019) and W167 (2020+) GLEs wear out the front lower control arm bushings. The lower arm carries multiple rubber bushings (including a rear 'lollipop' mount to the body) that tear with age, producing a clunk/knock over bumps, a wandering or vague feeling in the st… Repairs typically run $400-$1,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE M276 V6 Camshaft Adjuster (Magnet/Solenoid) Wear and Cold-Start Rattle?
The W166 GLE 350 and GLE 400 (2016-2018, M276 3.0L/3.5L V6) share the well-known M276 camshaft-adjuster problem. The variable-valve-timing camshaft adjusters and their magnets/solenoids wear, allowing the cams to fall out of time. Symptoms include a 2-3 second rattle on cold star… Repairs typically run $700-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Panoramic Sunroof Drain Clog and Seal Failure Causing Water Leaks into Cabin / Headliner?
The large panoramic roof has four corner drain tubes that route rainwater down the pillars. Over time the tubes clog with dirt/pollen/debris and the perimeter rubber seals degrade, so water backs up and drips onto the headliner, A-pillars, and front footwells, or pools and causes… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE MULTIBEAM / LED Headlight Condensation and Seal Failure Killing Internal Electronics?
The GLE's full-LED / MULTIBEAM headlights are ventilated for heat, but when the factory seal or housing gasket fails, humid air enters and heavy condensation forms — large droplets and standing water at the bottom of the housing (not the light misting Mercedes considers normal). Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Hydraulic Engine / Transmission Mount Collapse Causing Idle Vibration and Clunk?
The GLE uses fluid-filled (hydraulic) engine and transmission mounts to isolate NVH. These are a known consumable that ruptures and leaks its damping fluid, often well before 60-70k miles. A collapsed mount transmits noticeable vibration through the steering wheel, seats, and flo… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Plug-in Hybrid (350de / 450e / 550e) Charging Interruption and Won't-Charge Faults?
GLE plug-in hybrids (W166 550e; W167 350de diesel-PHEV and 450e) frequently show AC-charging faults: charging starts then stops and restarts, a red plug icon, or the car refuses to accept a charge at home/wallbox. Documented triggers include the vehicle halting when the voltage d… Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Power Liftgate Spindle-Drive / Control-Module Failure (Opens Partway Then Reverses)?
The GLE power tailgate uses a motorized spindle drive on the passenger side plus a gas strut on the driver side, managed by a dedicated Tailgate/rear-compartment control module. A very common complaint is the gate opening a few inches then stopping or immediately re-closing, inte… Repairs typically run $300-$1,300. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE COMAND/MBUX Infotainment Freeze?
The infotainment system (COMAND on 2016-2019, MBUX on 2020+) freezes or reboots. The COMAND hard drive fails over time while the MBUX system is susceptible to software glitches with connected phones. Repairs typically run $0-$2,500. Severity: low.
