What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss, M256 Inline-6 Oil Filter Housing / Oil Cooler and Electric Coolant Pump Leaks, Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear Causing Clunk and Steering Wander. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss. 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 $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss, typically costs $800-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss?
GLE models equipped with the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system (GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450d, GLE 580 and AMG variants on the W167 platform) commonly trigger a '48V Battery Malfunction' or 'Hybrid System Error' warning. The integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48V lithium-ion b… Repairs typically run $800-$4,500. Severity: high.
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 2016-2025 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.
