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Mercedes-Benz · Known Issues

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Problems: 6 Known Issues

2025 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 6 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 with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • GLE Electrical2
  • GLE Suspension1
  • GLE Interior1
  • GLE Engine1
  • GLE Cooling1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Suspension1
  • Interior1
  • Engine1
  • Cooling1
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2025202420232022202120202019201820172016

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.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $4,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

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.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Common Symptoms

  • Water droplets or pooling inside headlight lens
  • Persistent condensation that does not clear
  • Flickering LED or dead DRL/turn-signal segments
  • Complete headlight failure
  • Corrosion visible inside housing

How to Fix

Distinguish normal light fog (clears with use) from a failed seal (droplets/pooling/tide-marks). For early cases Mercedes has a service bulletin using an absorbent desiccant pad and resealing the housing. Once electronics/LED modules fail, the full headlight assembly must be replaced — MULTIBEAM units are among the priciest body-electrical parts on the car. Document moisture and pursue warranty/goodwill where possible. Reseal ~$150-400; full LED/MULTIBEAM assembly $1,200-2,500+ per side.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $2,500

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

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.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Common Symptoms

  • Clunk / knock from front over bumps
  • Wandering or vague steering
  • Uneven/inner front tire wear
  • Vibration or looseness at speed
  • Noise when turning into driveways

How to Fix

Lift and inspect the bushings for tears and wiggle the wheel to reproduce the noise. Either press in a new OE-quality bushing set or replace the complete lower control arm assembly — W167 genuine arms are left A1673300700 and right A1673300800 (167-330-07-00 / 167-330-08-00); W166 uses the 166-series arms/bushings. An alignment is required afterward. Bushing set is cheaper but labor-intensive; full arms run $150-300 each. Job total typically $400-1,000 with alignment.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Lemforder W166 front lower control-arm bushing kit KIT-1663300143
    OEMFCP KIT-1663300143

    Confirmed failed W166 front lower control-arm bushing branch when the arms and ball joints remain serviceable Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.

    FCP Euro
  • Lemforder W167 front lower control-arm pair KIT-1673300800
    OEMFCP KIT-1673300800

    Confirmed failed W167 left-and-right lower control-arm replacement branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN, suspension/options and failed ar

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,000

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

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.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Common Symptoms

  • Water dripping from headliner or A-pillar in rain / car wash
  • Damp front footwells or carpet
  • Musty / moldy smell
  • Creaking or rattling from roof over bumps
  • Water stains on headliner

How to Fix

Have the sunroof drain tubes flushed with low-pressure water or compressed air at each corner (a common wet-vac/blow-out service); replace degraded perimeter seals if leaking persists. For the rattle, re-seat or replace the drip-rail cover clips (often warranty/goodwill with a foam or double-sided-tape shim) and lubricate the sunroof guide rails with Mercedes-approved sunroof grease. Preventive drain cleaning every 1-2 years avoids interior water damage. Drain cleaning ~$100-200; seal/track service higher if headliner or trim is affected.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mercedes-Benz sunroof lubricating paste 0019894651, half-ounce repack
    OEMMercedes-Benz 0019894651

    Confirm the chassi

    ECS Tuning

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $700

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

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.

This issue also affects: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Common Symptoms

  • Vibration through steering wheel/seat at idle or in gear
  • Thump/clunk when shifting into Drive or Reverse
  • Shudder on acceleration
  • Oily fluid stain under engine mount
  • Vibration worsens when A/C is on

How to Fix

Inspect mounts on a lift for fluid leakage and excess movement; replace in pairs. On W167 the electronic (sensor-equipped) engine mounts are left A1672407200 and right A1672407300 (167-240-72-00 / 167-240-73-00); W166 (2016-2019) GLE350/400 use the non-sensor 166-series mounts, and a matching transmission mount is often replaced at the same time. Parts $150-350 each; independent labor brings a pair to roughly $400-1,200 total.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Lemforder W166 left engine mount 1662405817
    OEMLemforder 1662405817

    Confirmed failed left engine mount on the specifically listed W166 GLE branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page identifies Lemforder 1662405817 as the left engine mount and lists GLE350, GLE400, GLE43 AMG and GLE450 AM…

    FCP Euro
  • Lemforder W166 right engine mount 1662405917
    OEMLemforder 1662405917

    Confirmed failed right engine mount on the specifically listed W166 GLE branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page identifies Lemforder 1662405917 as the right engine mount and explicitly lists GLE350, GLE400 and GLE450 …

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Mercedes-Benz W167 GLE350 M264 engine-mount kit
    OEMFCP 167240 genuine Mercedes kit

    Confirmed failed engine-mount set for the specifically cataloged W167 GLE350 M264 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. kit page identifies genuine Mercedes W167 engine mounts and hardware for cataloged GLE350 M264 appli…

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 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 you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Mercedes-Benz M256 oil-filter housing A2561801500
    OEMMercedes-Benz A2561801500

    Confirmed failed M256 oil-filter housing on the cataloged GLE450/GLE53 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN, installed part/supersession

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Mercedes-Benz M256 main engine water pump A2562002200
    OEMMercedes-Benz A2562002200

    Confirmed failed main coolant-pump branch on the specifically cataloged M256 GLE450/GLE53 application Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN, pump

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $2,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions

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, Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear Causing Clunk and Steering Wander, Panoramic Sunroof Drain Clog and Seal Failure Causing Water Leaks into Cabin / Headliner. 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 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.

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.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

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 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 2016-2025 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 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.