According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is 48V Mild-Hybrid ISG / 48V Battery Malfunction Causing Sudden Power Loss ($800-$4,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $600 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2020-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, 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 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 March 2022 Mercedes TSB acknowledged that the battery self-test can disconnect the 48V battery due to software, hardware, cooling or false-positive faults. Many owners report multiple unsuccessful dealer visits and weeks of downtime, with the fault often persisting under warranty.
Common Symptoms
48V Battery Malfunction warning
Hybrid System Error message
sudden loss of power while driving
weak acceleration
stop/start disabled
engine stalls and restarts after waiting
noisy auxiliary fan
How to Fix
Have the dealer perform Xentry diagnostics and apply the latest 48V/ISG control-unit software update first, as many cases are false-positive disconnects fixed in software. Persistent faults require replacement of the 48V battery, the integrated starter-generator (ISG/alternator unit), or the DC/DC converter. Check the 48V ground cable connection (subject of a separate recall) before condemning the battery. Repairs are typically covered under the powertrain/hybrid warranty; out of warranty an ISG replacement is a major job.
High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026
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.
Common Symptoms
oil spots under engine
coolant loss
low coolant / overheating warning
erratic temperature gauge
oil and coolant mixing
cold-start timing chain rattle
oil consumption between services
How to Fix
Pressure-test the cooling system and inspect the oil filter housing/adapter and integrated oil cooler for seepage; replace the housing gaskets/seals or the complete adapter as needed and refresh coolant. Test the electric coolant pump(s) and replace failing units. Investigate any coolant-in-oil immediately to prevent bearing damage. Monitor oil level between services given the engine's oil-consumption tendency.
What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 2 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. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?
The 2025-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 2 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 $600 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.
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.
