2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e
Introduction:
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e is a plug-in hybrid luxury SUV powered by a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor integrated into the transmission provides an additional boost of power. The GLE550e offers a sporty and efficient driving experience, with 442 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque combined. It’s praised for its comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and impressive fuel economy. However, some owners have reported issues with various components of the vehicle.
Engine
- 3.0L V6 Biturbo Engine
- Rough Idle and Reduced Power:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine may experience rough idling or a significant loss of power.
- Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Timing Chain Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Rattles or grinding noises from the engine may indicate a faulty timing chain.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Thermostat Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating engine or coolant leaks may indicate a faulty thermostat.
- Solution: Replace the thermostat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Rough Idle and Reduced Power:
Transmission
- 9-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Transmission Slipping or Jerking:
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission may slip or jerk when shifting gears.
- Solution: Flush the transmission fluid and replace the filter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
- Transmission Slipping or Jerking:
Suspension
- Airmatic Suspension Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Suspension may become unresponsive or lose its ability to adjust height.
- Solution: Replace faulty air struts or compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Description/Symptoms: Suspension may become unresponsive or lose its ability to adjust height.
Electrical
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery may discharge excessively when the vehicle is parked.
- Solution: Replace the defective battery or diagnose and repair electrical faults.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Description/Symptoms: Battery may discharge excessively when the vehicle is parked.
- Power Window Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows may become inoperable or slow.
- Solution: Replace faulty window motors or switches.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows may become inoperable or slow.
Exterior
- Sunroof Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: Water may leak into the cabin from the sunroof area.
- Solution: Replace sunroof seals or adjust the sunroof mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Description/Symptoms: Water may leak into the cabin from the sunroof area.
Interior
- Climate Control Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Climate control system may fail to maintain desired temperature or airflow.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical faults or replace faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Description/Symptoms: Climate control system may fail to maintain desired temperature or airflow.
Summary:
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e has received mixed reviews from owners, with some reporting significant issues affecting major components. Engine problems, such as rough idle and timing chain failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues and suspension failures are also not uncommon. Electrical and interior issues can be annoying but generally less expensive to fix. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used GLE550e and factor in the cost of potential repairs.