2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE550

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e 4MATIC is a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a blend of luxury and performance. It features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2018 GLE lineup include a 3.5-liter V6, a 3.0-liter biturbo V6 (GLE43 AMG), a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 (GLE63 AMG), and a diesel engine. The GLE550e, in particular, is praised for its fuel efficiency and powerful acceleration, while some owners have expressed concerns about the complexity of the hybrid system and potential reliability issues.

Engine

3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid

• Check Engine Light - Fault Code P030X Cylinder Misfire
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating. The fault code typically indicates a misfire in a specific cylinder (P0301, P0302, etc.).
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific cylinder misfiring and inspect the spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector. Replace the faulty component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ depending on the component needing replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed around the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, or rear main seal. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Clean the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts between gears, particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration. The vehicle may hesitate before engaging a gear.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to identify potential issues with the valve body or other internal components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for fluid flush and filter replacement; $1,500+ for valve body repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s air suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to sag or become uneven. This can be accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard and a loss of ride comfort.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the air suspension failure, which could involve a faulty air strut, compressor, or ride height sensor. Replace the malfunctioning component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Hybrid Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric driving range, failure to charge fully, or warning lights indicating a problem with the hybrid battery system.
  • Solution: Diagnose the hybrid battery pack for individual cell failures or overall degradation. Replace faulty cells or the entire battery pack as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $8,000+ depending on the severity of the issue and whether individual cells or the entire pack need replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system malfunctions, such as freezing, crashing, or failure to connect to Bluetooth devices.
  • Solution: Attempt a software update or reset of the infotainment system. If the problem persists, consult a Mercedes-Benz technician for further diagnostics and software repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the software issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, fail to open or close properly, or leak water.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks and mechanisms for debris or damage. Lubricate the tracks or replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the nature of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console screen becomes unresponsive, flickers, or displays distorted images. The navigation system may also malfunction.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset. If the problem persists, the screen or the associated control module may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE550e, while offering a luxurious and efficient driving experience, can be prone to several issues. The most concerning relate to the hybrid system, particularly the potential for hybrid battery problems, which can be expensive to repair. Other common issues include engine misfires, oil leaks, and air suspension failures. The severity of these problems can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to address, others like hybrid battery replacement can be significantly costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.