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2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG is a performance SUV that blends luxury with exhilarating power. The GLE63 AMG boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine producing 550 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque in the base model, and 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque in the GLE63 S AMG variant. It is paired exclusively with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the vehicle’s potent engine, comfortable interior, and luxurious appointments. Common dislikes include the high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and occasional reliability concerns associated with AMG models. The non-AMG GLE models also have various engine options.

Engine

5.5L Biturbo V8 (M157)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the vehicle, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Thorough cleaning of the affected area after the repair is also recommended.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location of the leak and labor involved.
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers on the M157 engine can experience issues such as wastegate failures, oil leaks, or complete turbo failure. Symptoms include reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine, and turbocharger fault codes.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger(s) or wastegate actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Check Engine Light / Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: A check engine light can illuminate for a variety of reasons, but common culprits on the M157 engine include faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors leading to misfires.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific fault code and replacing the affected components (ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component replaced and the number of cylinders affected.

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC (722.9)

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, particularly during downshifts. This can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the severity of the issue and the repair needed.
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Humming, shaking, or vibrations while driving at highway speeds can be symptoms of a faulty torque converter.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience issues such as air leaks, compressor failures, or faulty sensors. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a noisy air compressor, and suspension malfunction warnings.
    • Solution: Identifying and repairing the air leak, replacing the air compressor, or replacing faulty sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component replaced.
  • Air Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air struts in the suspension system can fail, resulting in a loss of air pressure and a significant drop in ride height. This can cause a bumpy ride and potential damage to other suspension components.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut.

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, particularly if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electrical components.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the parasitic draw and repairing the affected component. Ensuring the battery is in good condition and properly charged.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Infotainment System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
    • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the issue and the solution.
  • Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors around the vehicle can fail, leading to warning lights on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Identify and replace the faulty sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1,000+

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to open or close properly. Can also leak.
    • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1,000+

Interior

  • No Issues Found

Recalls Recall Number: 20V721000 Description: Certain vehicles may have been manufactured with an improperly installed ground connection between the engine and the vehicle body. Consequence: A poor ground connection may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Number: 21V127000 Description: Certain vehicles may have been produced with a software error in the engine control unit. Consequence: This software error may lead to engine misfires, which over time, may damage the catalytic converter.

Recall Number: 20V657000 Description: Certain vehicles may have been produced with an improper weld on the fuel filter flange. Consequence: A fuel leak may occur in the presence of an ignition source, increasing the risk of a fire.

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG offers impressive performance but can be prone to several issues, especially concerning the engine, transmission, and air suspension. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for turbocharger replacements or air suspension repairs. Electrical issues and sunroof malfunctions can also contribute to overall maintenance expenses. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess the vehicle’s condition. The recalls relating to fuel leaks and potential engine stall also necessitate careful checking of service records.

Mercedes-Benz, GLE63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG 2017
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