2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE350

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 marked a significant redesign of the popular SUV. The GLE350 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other available engine options for the 2019 GLE included a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo (GLE450) and a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo (GLE580 and AMG variants). Owners often praise the GLE for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. However, some common complaints include the complex infotainment system, occasional electronic glitches, and higher maintenance costs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (GLE350)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various seals and gaskets, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage. Signs include oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, and visible oil around the engine.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, etc.) and replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, causing the engine to run poorly, stall, or have reduced power. Check engine light is often illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (All GLE350)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough or jerky shifting, especially between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration can also be a symptom.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) might resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: If the vehicle is equipped with the optional Airmatic air suspension, the air struts or compressor may fail, leading to uneven ride height, sagging, and error messages.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s) or air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, lagging, or random restarts. Connectivity issues with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are also common.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the problem. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring sensors) can fail, causing warning lights and system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic draw causing the battery drain (faulty module, aftermarket accessories, etc.) and address the issue. Replacing the battery may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (battery replacement) - $500+ (diagnostics and repair).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Malfunctioning Power Seats
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may become inoperable or only partially functional.
  • Solution: Check the motor and the power seat switch for issues. Replace the parts as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 presents a mix of potential issues, ranging from relatively minor software glitches to more significant mechanical problems with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, with electrical problems and sensor failures being more common and potentially less expensive to fix, while engine and transmission repairs can be significantly more costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history before purchasing.