2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE300d

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE300d is a luxury SUV known for its comfort, style, and fuel efficiency (for its class). This model year was part of the first generation of the GLE, a mid-cycle refresh of the M-Class. It features a 2.1-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine producing 201 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC). Other engine options available in the 2017 GLE lineup include a gasoline V6 and V8 in various trims (GLE350, GLE400, GLE550e, GLE63 AMG and GLE63 AMG S). A gasoline-powered AMG 43 variant was available with a V6 and the GLE400 was available with a V6. Many owners appreciate the GLE300d for its smooth ride and luxurious interior, while others have cited issues with the diesel emissions systems and some electronic glitches.

Engine

2.1L Inline-4 Turbodiesel (OM651)

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, warning lights, and potential limp mode. Often happens when the vehicle is used for short trips that do not give the DPF a chance to regenerate.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF by a mechanic using diagnostic tools, or replacement of the DPF. Cleaning of the DPF may also be an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, causing rough idling, poor acceleration, and potentially triggering the check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of diesel injectors, causing a misfire. Often happens because of dirty fuel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the diesel injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC (9-Speed Automatic)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Can sometimes be exacerbated by cold weather.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement; software update to the transmission control module (TCM); in some cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly during acceleration. Can also manifest as stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, sagging on one side, failure to adjust height. Typically caused by leaks in the air struts or issues with the air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s) or the air compressor. Diagnosing and repairing leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ (per strut, plus labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or failure of the infotainment system. Navigation issues or loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of any of the many sensors the car utilizes, from parking sensors, to blind spot monitoring, to adaptive cruise control
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open or close, may get stuck, or may leak.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof track, or replace the motor, or repair/replace the sunroof assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater either doesn’t work, or it gets too hot.
  • Solution: Replace heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE300d, while offering a luxurious experience and fuel efficiency, can suffer from several common issues. The diesel engine is prone to DPF and EGR valve problems, potentially leading to significant repair costs. The 9-speed transmission can exhibit rough shifting, and the air suspension (if equipped) can be a source of expensive repairs. Electrical issues with the COMAND system and the sunroof are also commonly reported. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering purchasing a used GLE300d. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, and potentially reaching into the thousands of dollars.