2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550
Overview
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550, a luxury mid-size SUV, generally offers a solid ownership experience with a focus on comfort and performance. It shares its platform with the M-Class and was part of a mid-cycle refresh. While it boasts premium features and a powerful engine, like any vehicle, it can encounter specific issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs for owners.
Engine
4.7L Twin-Turbo V8
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, whistling noises from the engine bay.
- Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of turbocharger seals or the entire unit.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets or seals, such as valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Transmission
7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic
Transmission Shudder/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during gear changes, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, software update, or internal transmission repair.
- Cost: $400 - $1,200
Suspension
AIRMATIC Air Suspension
Air Suspension Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ‘airmatic system malfunction’ warning light.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of air springs, air lines, or compressor.
- Cost: $500 - $2,500
Standard Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
COMAND System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1,500
Battery Drain
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Leather Upholstery
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Climate Control System
Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow direction.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550 is a capable luxury SUV with a generally good reliability record. The most commonly reported issues tend to revolve around the optional AIRMATIC air suspension system, potential turbocharger concerns on the V8 engine, and occasional glitches with the COMAND infotainment system. Transmission issues are less frequent but can be costly to repair. Owners should be aware of these potential areas and factor in the possibility of repairs, especially for the air suspension and electrical components, which can represent a significant portion of the overall ownership cost.