2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE500

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE500 is a luxury SUV that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style. The GLE line-up for 2016 includes several engine options, including the GLE350 with a 3.5L V6 engine, the GLE400 with a 3.0L Turbo V6, the GLE550e Plug-in Hybrid with a 3.0L Turbo V6, the GLE63 AMG with a 5.5L Turbo V8, and the GLE500 with a 4.7L Turbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GLE500 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. Common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, some issues with the infotainment system, and occasional electrical glitches.

Engine

4.7L Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common concern in older Mercedes-Benz engines. The valve cover gaskets tend to dry out and crack over time, leading to oil leaks. Symptoms include visible oil leaks around the valve covers, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers on the 4.7L V8 can experience premature failure. Symptoms include loss of power, unusual noises (whining or whistling) from the engine, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (7-Speed Automatic)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7G-Tronic transmission can sometimes experience torque converter problems, leading to shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, or rough shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the valve body can lead to erratic shifting, harsh gear changes, or a failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system, while providing a comfortable ride, is prone to issues. Common symptoms include the vehicle sagging on one side, failure to maintain ride height, and warning lights on the dashboard. Leaks in the air struts or a failing air compressor are often the cause.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $600 - $1,500+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits unused for extended periods. This can be attributed to various parasitic drains.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, malfunctioning sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can sometimes experience glitches, freezes, or failures. The navigation system may also fail.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the sunroof mechanism, such as getting stuck or failing to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material can sometimes delaminate or separate from the underlying structure, creating an unsightly appearance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (typically expensive).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE500 offers a luxurious driving experience, but it’s not without its potential problems. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger issues, and transmission problems can be costly to repair. The air suspension system is another area that may require attention. Electrical issues and infotainment system malfunctions are also common complaints. Overall, while the GLE500 provides a high level of comfort and performance, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. The severity and cost of repairs vary, but some issues can be quite expensive.