2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG is a performance-oriented SUV that blends luxury with sporty driving dynamics. It features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2017 GLE include a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4, a 3.5-liter V6, a 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6, a 5.5-liter biturbo V8 (GLE63 AMG), and a 5.5-liter biturbo V8 (GLE63 S AMG). All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the GLE450 AMG for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and abundant features. Common complaints often revolve around electronic glitches, higher maintenance costs, and occasional issues with the air suspension.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged V6 (M276)

• Oil Leaks from Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid (CAS)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster solenoid, leading to oil consumption, visible oil on the engine, and potentially triggering the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid and clean any oil residue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks from Thermostat Housing
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the thermostat housing, resulting in coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing assembly and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or hesitant gear changes, particularly between lower gears. Can also manifest as a noticeable “clunk” when shifting.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update of the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. More severe cases might require valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor failure, error messages on the dashboard related to the air suspension system, and uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue (leaking air strut, faulty compressor, malfunctioning ride height sensor, etc.) and replace the defective component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $1,000 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is parked, and the car might not start, or exhibit electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic drain, which can be a faulty module, a short circuit, or a component that is not shutting off properly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or experiences other software glitches.
  • Solution: A software update might resolve the issue. In some cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $200 (software update) - $1,000+ (COMAND unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, makes excessive noise, or fails to open or close correctly.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks for debris and lubrication. If the motor or mechanism is faulty, it will need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG, while a desirable luxury SUV, has several potential issues owners should be aware of. The most concerning problems involve the transmission, potentially leading to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins, particularly related to battery drain and the COMAND system, are also relatively common. The air suspension, if equipped, can be another source of expense. Overall, the severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to costly repairs, so a thorough inspection before purchase is highly recommended.