2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG is a high-performance SUV that blends luxury with exhilarating power. Its main competitor is the BMW X5 M. The GLE63 AMG is powered by a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2018 GLE include the GLE350’s 3.5-liter V6, the GLE43 AMG’s 3.0-liter turbo V6, and the GLE550e plug-in hybrid’s 3.0-liter V6 paired with an electric motor. A 7-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission is standard. Owners often praise the GLE63 AMG for its potent performance, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Common complaints include high maintenance costs and some reported electronic issues.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 (M157)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are sometimes found around the valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, or rear main seal. This can result in visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace 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: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including premature failure or excessive noise. This can lead to reduced power and performance.
  • Solution: Diagnose the turbocharger for leaks and abnormal behavior. Replace the turbocharger if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience rough or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM) may be necessary. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) to $4,000+ (transmission rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay between shifting into drive or reverse, or between gear changes.
  • Solution: Similar to rough shifting, start with a fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be needed to check valve body and other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) to $2,000+ (valve body replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The GLE63 AMG features an air suspension system that can be prone to failure. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, and error messages on the dashboard related to the suspension system.
  • Solution: Diagnose the air suspension system to identify the faulty component (air strut, air compressor, valve block, or ride height sensor). Replace the defective part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per air strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the air compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain. Can result in the vehicle not starting or electrical components malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Thoroughly test battery and alternator. Check for parasitic draws in the electrical system caused by faulty modules, lights, or accessories. Repair or replace the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (new battery) to $100 - $500+ (parasitic draw diagnosis and repair).
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset. If the problem persists, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced or reprogrammed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (reprogram) to $1,500+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to operate or overheating.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG offers impressive performance and luxury but can present owners with potentially costly maintenance and repair bills. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger issues are common concerns, along with air suspension and electrical system problems. Transmission issues can range from minor rough shifting to major repairs. While not every GLE63 AMG will experience these issues, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility and factor these costs into their ownership expectations. The severity of these issues varies, but the estimated costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, particularly for air suspension or transmission repairs.