2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e

Introduction:

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e is a luxury plug-in hybrid SUV powered by a 3.0L V6 engine paired with an electric motor. It delivers 443 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. The GLE500e is known for its spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it has faced some issues.

Engine

3.0L V6 Engine

• Oil Leaks: Engine oil may leak from the valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and low oil level warnings. Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,500+.
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner may fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can lead to engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine and a loss of power. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and related components. Estimated cost: $1,000 - $3,000+.

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V712000: Oil leak due to defective valve cover gasket
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V174000: Timing chain tensioner failure

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Issues: The transmission may experience rough or delayed shifts, especially when upshifting or downshifting. Symptoms include hesitation, slipping, or a shudder during gear changes. Solution: Update the transmission software or replace the valve body or clutch packs. Estimated cost: $500 - $3,000+.

Recalls:

• None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Leaks: The air suspension bladders or air lines may develop leaks, causing the vehicle to lose ride height and stability. Symptoms include a lowered suspension, uneven ride height, or a warning message on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the leaking components. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,500+ per corner.

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: The 12V battery may discharge prematurely due to a faulty alternator or a parasitic drain. Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, electrical system failures, or a dead battery. Solution: Replace the alternator or locate and fix the parasitic drain. Estimated cost: $200 - $1,000+.
• Infotainment System Malfunctions: The COMAND infotainment system may experience glitches, freezes, or touchscreen issues. Symptoms include unresponsive screen, audio distortions, or navigation errors. Solution: Update the software or replace the head unit. Estimated cost: $500 - $2,000+.

Exterior

• Sunroof Malfunctions: The panoramic sunroof may fail to open or close, or may leak during rain. Symptoms include a stuck sunroof, water leaks into the cabin, or a warning message on the dashboard. Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, seals, or drainage system. Estimated cost: $500 - $2,500+.

Interior

• Climate Control Issues: The automatic climate control system may not regulate temperature effectively or may malfunction. Symptoms include uneven cabin temperatures, excessive noise from the vents, or a warning message on the dashboard. Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components, such as sensors, actuators, or the compressor. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,500+.
• Steering Wheel Controls Intermittent: The steering wheel controls (e.g., volume, cruise control) may become intermittent or unresponsive. Symptoms include difficulty adjusting volume, setting cruise control, or using other buttons on the steering wheel. Solution: Replace the steering wheel control module or faulty wiring. Estimated cost: $300 - $1,000+.

Summary:

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e has faced some issues, including engine leaks, timing chain tensioner failure, transmission shifting problems, suspension leaks, electrical system malfunctions, sunroof issues, climate control problems, and intermittent steering wheel controls. While these issues can be inconvenient and costly to repair, the severity and prevalence vary. Some issues are common and require immediate attention, while others are less frequent and can be addressed proactively through regular maintenance and software updates. It is recommended to consult with authorized Mercedes-Benz service centers for accurate diagnosis and repair advice.