2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Problems: 6 Known Issues

On the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, gLE models equipped with the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system (GLE 450, GLE 450d, GLE 580 and AMG variants on the W167 platform, plus the GLE 350 from the 2024 model year) commonly trigger a '48V Battery Malfunction' or 'Hybrid System Error' warning. The integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48V lithium-ion battery, along with the DC/DC converter, are known weak points. Owners report sudden loss of drive power on the motorway, disabled stop/start, weak acceleration and repeated stalling, sometimes resolving only after the car is powered down for 10-15 minutes. A February 2021 Mercedes TSB (reissued December 2021, with a follow-up in March 2022) acknowledged that software, hardware, cooling or false-positive detection faults can cause the 48V battery to disconnect itself. Many owners report multiple unsuccessful dealer visits and weeks of downtime, with the fault often persisting under warranty.

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.

On the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE M256 3.0L turbocharged I6 (EQ Boost), 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 and an auxiliary electric water pump that can fail, producing erratic cooling behavior and overheating warnings. Because oil and coolant circuits share the adapter, an internal cooler leak can let coolant migrate into the oil and quickly damage the engine. Owners also report cold-start timing-chain rattle and oil consumption past ~60k miles on this engine.

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.

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.

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.