What is the 2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE A/C Drain Hose Water Intrusion into Front Footwells (Recall 21V-288)?

Recall 21V-288 directly covers certain model-year 2020-2021 GLE-Class vehicles whose air-conditioning drain hoses might be incorrectly installed, allowing condensation water into the passenger compartment. Water in the front footwells can corrode or short electrical components an… Severity: high.

What is the 2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071?

Recall 21V-071 directly covers certain model-year 2020-2021 GLE 350 and GLE 450 vehicles whose ESP software might not meet current production specifications and FMVSS 126. In a specific rapid evasive maneuver, torque may be applied to a front wheel and pull the vehicle to one sid… 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.

What is the 2020-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain Rattle?

The base GLE 350's M264 2.0L turbo four-cylinder can develop a worn/weak timing chain tensioner and chain stretch, producing a rattle (often on cold start or under load) from the front of the engine. If ignored, chain stretch can throw camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes and, i… Repairs typically run $1,591-$2,600. Severity: high.

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 2020-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Front Radar Sensor Fault (P2583) Disabling Distronic and Active Brake Assist?

On the W167 GLE (2020-2024), the front radar sensor behind the grille that feeds Distronic adaptive cruise control, Active Brake Assist and PRE-SAFE frequently faults, throwing 'Pre-Safe Functions Currently Limited' and disabling those safety systems. Code P2583 indicates the fro… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2020-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 9G-Tronic (725.0) Harsh Shifting and Delayed Engagement from Valve Body Wear?

GLE 350 and GLE 450 models (2020+, 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic) develop harsh low-gear shifts, clunking, and delayed engagement when selecting Drive or Reverse as the transmission ages. The most common root cause is degradation of the valve-body solenoids and conductor plate, agg… Repairs typically run $400-$3,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE M256 Inline-6 Oil Filter Housing / Oil Cooler and Electric Coolant Pump Leaks?

The 3.0L M256 inline-six (GLE 450, AMG GLE 53 on the W167) is prone to oil leaks from the oil filter housing/adapter assembly, which integrates the engine oil cooler with coolant passages, making leaks both oil and coolant related. The M256 also relies on an electric coolant pump… Repairs typically run $600-$2,200. 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 2016-2025 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.

Mercedes-Benz · Known Issues

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE Problems: 20 Known Issues

2021 model year · 4,400+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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According to Au7o's analysis of 4,400+ owner reports, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 20 documented known issues, with 7 rated critical. The most serious are Air Suspension Compressor Failure ($600-$2,500 repair), 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss ($800-$4,500 repair), A/C Drain Hose Water Intrusion into Front Footwells (Recall 21V-288), ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071, Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start ($400-$1,200 repair), M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain Rattle ($1,591-$2,600 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,400+ owner reports, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 20 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Air Suspension Compressor Failure, 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss, A/C Drain Hose Water Intrusion into Front Footwells (Recall 21V-288). Of these, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 20 known issues documented across 4,400+ owner reports. 7 issues are rated critical: Air Suspension Compressor Failure and 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss and A/C Drain Hose Water Intrusion into Front Footwells (Recall 21V-288) and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071 and Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start and M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain 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.

All 20 Known Issues

Other Mercedes-Benz Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?

What is the 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Air Suspension Compressor Failure?

What is the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss?

When Issues Typically Appear

2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss#

2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Auxiliary (Backup) 12V Battery Failure Triggering "Auxiliary Battery Malfunction – Visit Workshop"#

2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: MULTIBEAM / LED Headlight Condensation and Seal Failure Killing Internal Electronics#

2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Plug-in Hybrid (350de / 450e / 550e) Charging Interruption and Won't-Charge Faults#

2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE: COMAND/MBUX Infotainment Freeze#

2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Air Suspension Compressor Failure#

2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear Causing Clunk and Steering Wander#

2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE: A/C Drain Hose Water Intrusion into Front Footwells (Recall 21V-288)#

2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Power Liftgate Spindle-Drive / Control-Module Failure (Opens Partway Then Reverses)#

2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE: ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071#

2020-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Front Radar Sensor Fault (P2583) Disabling Distronic and Active Brake Assist#

2020-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE: M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain Rattle#

2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Hydraulic Engine / Transmission Mount Collapse Causing Idle Vibration and Clunk#

2016-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start#

2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Electric Power Steering (EPS) Sudden Loss of Assist - "Power Steering Malfunction, See Operator's Manual"#

2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE: 4MATIC Transfer Case Chain Stretch and Bearing Wear#

2016-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Rear Differential Oil Leak#

2020-2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: 9G-Tronic (725.0) Harsh Shifting and Delayed Engagement from Valve Body Wear#

2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: M256 Inline-6 Oil Filter Housing / Oil Cooler and Electric Coolant Pump Leaks#

2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Panoramic Sunroof Drain Clog and Seal Failure Causing Water Leaks into Cabin / Headliner#