2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S is a high-performance SUV that blends luxury with impressive power. The GLE63 AMG S came standard with a hand-built 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine that produces 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. While owners appreciate the vehicle’s powerful engine, luxurious interior, and sporty handling, some common complaints arise, including potential issues with the air suspension, infotainment system glitches, and occasional engine component failures. This model did not have other available engine or transmission options available, as it was the top-of-the-line model.

Engine

5.5L Biturbo V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine bay, check engine light. This can be caused by oil starvation due to clogged oil lines or defective turbocharger components.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s) and inspection of oil lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (depending on whether one or both turbos need replacing).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine block, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, particularly at low speeds. Slipping between gears, especially when accelerating, can occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter and fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, getting stuck in a gear, transmission malfunction warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, suspension warning lights, inability to adjust ride height, compressor running constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the faulty component (air strut, compressor, valve block, or air line) and replacement of the defective part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Strut: $1,500-$3,000 per strut; Compressor: $800 - $1,500; Valve Block: $500-$1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system freezes, reboots randomly, or experiences screen blackouts.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $150-$300; COMAND Unit Replacement: $1,500 - $3,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains quickly, especially when parked for extended periods. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identify parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut-off accessory) and repair. Replacement of battery if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Diagnosis: $150-$300; Battery Replacement: $300-$500; Parasitic Draw Repair: Varies widely based on cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise during operation, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, rails, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to heat properly or overheat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG S offers exhilarating performance, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues. Suspension and engine repairs can be costly. The most common problems include issues with the air suspension, infotainment, and engine oil leaks. The transmission can also be a problem. If well-maintained, most of the issues can be avoided, but they can be costly when they occur.