2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and elegant styling. The GLE350 comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other available engine options include a more powerful V6, a V8, and a plug-in hybrid. Owners generally appreciate the GLE350’s upscale features and smooth driving experience, but some common complaints include electronic glitches and potentially costly repairs.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased performance, engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine, often dripping down onto other components. Low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush: $300-500. Valve body repair/replacement: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially on one side. “Car Too Low” warning light. Noises coming from the air suspension compressor.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air strut replacement: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut. Compressor replacement: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity issues. Navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update may be covered under warranty. Replacement: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle struggling to start or not starting at all. Frequent jump starts needed.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. Potential causes include faulty modules, lights staying on, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera not displaying an image or showing a distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera connection and wiring. Replacement of the camera itself may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine-related problems such as camshaft adjuster solenoid and oil filter housing leaks can lead to moderate repair costs. The 7-speed transmission can suffer from rough shifting, potentially requiring expensive valve body work. Air suspension issues (if equipped) can also be costly to address. Electrical glitches within the COMAND system and battery drain issues are also frequently reported. Overall, while many GLE350s are reliable, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs associated with a luxury SUV.