2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG

Introduction

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG is a high-performance luxury SUV that features a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GLE43 is lauded for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced safety features. However, it has also faced some issues that owners have reported.

Engine

• Turbocharger Wastegate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, turbocharger whine, engine warning lights
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger wastegate
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Cylinder Head Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, coolant leaks, engine knocking
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle or grinding noise on engine startup, loss of power, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and associated components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $2,800+
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the fuel injector(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerking or slipping during gear changes
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid service, or transmission rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, difficulty adjusting ride height, warning lights
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Air Suspension Valve Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Improper suspension performance, vehicle leaning or bouncing
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery going dead quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Identify the cause of the battery drain (e.g., faulty module, parasitic draw) and correct it
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight assembly
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+

Interior

• Panoramic Sunroof Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the panoramic sunroof, sunroof rattling
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
• Infotainment System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation errors, audio issues
  • Solution: Software update, reset, or replacement of infotainment unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Summary

The Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG is known for its impressive performance and luxurious appointments. However, it has experienced reliability issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, such as turbocharger failure and cylinder head cracking, are among the most severe issues reported. The vehicle also faces issues with the transmission, suspension, and electrical system. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and consider the estimated repair costs when making a purchase decision.