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

On 2020-2021 GLE and GLS SUVs, the air-conditioning condensation drain hoses can be incorrectly installed or disconnect during assembly, allowing condensate to drain into the driver and passenger front footwells instead of out under the vehicle. Owners report soaked carpets, fogg… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

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

Mercedes-Benz recalled 2020-2021 GLE 350 (~37,383 units) and GLE 450 (~4,451 units), built June 28, 2018 to July 6, 2020, because the ESP (electronic stability control) software did not conform to FMVSS 126 stability-control requirements. In certain driving scenarios the vehicle… Repairs typically run $0-$0. 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 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 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 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 2020-2024 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 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 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 2016-2024 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 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.

Mercedes-Benz · Known Issues

2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Problems: 24 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2016-2025 model years · 5,400+ owner reports · Updated July 2026

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According to Au7o's analysis of 5,400+ owner reports, the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 24 documented known issues, with 9 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) ($0-$1,500 repair), OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak ($1,500-$6,000 repair), M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain Rattle ($1,591-$2,600 repair), ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071 ($0-$0 repair), M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE 550) Timing Chain Tensioner / Camshaft Adjuster Cold-Start Rattle ($1,800-$6,500 repair), . at .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 5,400+ owner reports, the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 24 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, 9 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?

The 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 24 known issues documented across 5,400+ owner reports. 9 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 OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak and M264 2.0L Turbo Timing Chain Tensioner Wear / Chain Rattle and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) Software Non-Conformance – NHTSA Recall 21V-071 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" and Diesel AdBlue / SCR NOx Sensor Fault Triggering Restart Countdown and No-Start. 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 year Mercedes-Benz GLE is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Mercedes-Benz GLE. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2016-2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE with 24 documented issues documented across 5,400+ owner reports.

All 24 Known Issues

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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 year Mercedes-Benz GLE is the most reliable?

When Issues Typically Appear

2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE: OM651 Diesel Turbo Bearing Collapse and EGR Cooler Coolant Leak#

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

2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE: M278 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE 550) Timing Chain Tensioner / Camshaft Adjuster Cold-Start Rattle#

2016-2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE: M276 V6 Camshaft Adjuster (Magnet/Solenoid) Wear and Cold-Start Rattle#

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

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#

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

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

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

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

2016-2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Diesel DPF Regeneration Issues#

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

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

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