2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE500

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury mid-size SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. The GLE500 is equipped with a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2018 GLE include a 3.0L V6, a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6, a 2.1L Turbocharged Diesel, and a 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8 (AMG models). All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the GLE for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options, but some have noted concerns about electronic issues and repair costs.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (GLE500)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Potential for turbocharger failure, indicated by reduced engine power, whistling noises, and check engine light. Can also be related to oil leaks from the turbo lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger(s) and addressing any associated oil leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (All Models)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly when shifting between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration is also noted.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM) or, in more severe cases, replacement of valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 (software update), $1,500 - $3,000+ (valve body replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Air suspension failures can occur, leading to a saggy ride height, uneven stance, or complete loss of suspension function. This is often caused by leaking air struts or a failing air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a few days. Can be caused by faulty modules not going to sleep or parasitic draws.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic drain, which may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 (software updates), $1,500 - $3,000+ (unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the sunroof not closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. This can be due to debris in the tracks or a faulty motor.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (cleaning and lubrication), $500 - $1000+ (motor replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE500, while a luxurious and powerful SUV, does have some common issues reported by owners. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems on the GLE500, along with potential transmission issues in all models, can lead to costly repairs. Electrical glitches and air suspension failures can also be a concern. Before purchasing a used GLE500, a thorough inspection is recommended, paying close attention to these potential problem areas.