2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE350

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 is a luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and available technology. The GLE350 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include the GLE400 with a 3.0L V6 biturbo, the GLE550e with a 3.0L V6 biturbo plug-in hybrid, and AMG variants. Some common praises include the vehicle’s comfortable ride and luxurious interior, while some complaints revolve around the infotainment system complexity and occasional reliability concerns.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Camshaft Adjuster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, and loss of power. The camshaft adjuster (phaser) can fail, causing improper timing and engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster(s) and performing an engine timing adjustment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter housing area. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing, often including new gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or low speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ride height issues, error messages on the dashboard. The air struts, air compressor, or air lines can develop leaks or fail.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air strut(s), air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing parasitic draw. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the draw
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or exhibits connectivity problems (Bluetooth, navigation).
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $2,000+ (COMAND unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking/Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or delamination appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or professional repair/restoration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock not working properly, either not locking or unlocking with the key fob or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 can experience a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The air suspension, if equipped, can also be a source of expense. While many owners enjoy the comfort and luxury of the GLE350, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major failures, and repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the repair shop.