2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550 is a luxury SUV that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The GLE550 specifically features a 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 engine producing 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2016 GLE include a 3.0L Turbo V6 (GLE350, GLE400), a diesel 2.1L Inline-4 (GLE300d), and a high-performance 5.5L Turbo V8 (GLE63 AMG, GLE63 AMG S). Drivers appreciate the GLE’s luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine options. Common complaints often revolve around the infotainment system’s complexity and potential for electronic glitches, as well as higher-than-average repair costs associated with the brand.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE550)

• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed around the turbocharger area. This can lead to a burning oil smell and potential oil consumption issues.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger oil lines and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and decreased fuel economy can occur. A check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Fuel injector replacement, potentially requiring replacement of all injectors to ensure balanced fuel delivery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits lower than normal, or one side is lower than the other. The air suspension warning light may illuminate. The compressor may be noisy or not run at all.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor and check for air leaks in the system (struts, lines).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Same as above, as a leaking strut will cause the compressor to work overtime and eventually fail.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,500 per strut (depending on location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the fix)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: ESP/ABS warning lights may illuminate. Difficulties with the steering system, including improper turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering angle sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes unusual noises during operation, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material separates from the underlying structure, often bubbling or peeling, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE550 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues that can arise. Engine oil leaks, torque converter issues, air suspension problems, and electrical glitches within the COMAND system are prevalent. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, particularly those involving the air suspension or COMAND unit replacement. Prospective owners should carefully inspect the vehicle, check its maintenance history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure a more reliable and enjoyable ownership experience.