2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG is a performance-oriented SUV boasting a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2019 GLE include a base 3.5L V6, a 3.0L V6 in the GLE400, and a 5.5L V8 in the GLE63 AMG. Owners often praise its sporty handling, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s complexity, occasional glitches in the electronics, and relatively firm ride quality, especially on models equipped with larger wheels.
Engine
3.0L Turbocharged V6 (M276)
- Oil Leaks from the Turbocharger Oil Supply Lines
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are apparent around the turbocharger area, potentially leading to burning oil smells and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger oil supply lines, using updated parts with improved sealing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks from the Water Pump
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and visible coolant leaks near the front of the engine.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump and thermostat as a unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)
- Rough Shifting and Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, especially between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $150 - $300, Valve Body Replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during light acceleration.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Malfunctions (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, failure to raise or lower, “Air Suspension Malfunction” warning light.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system, potentially requiring replacement of air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Strut Replacement: $1,000 - $2,000+ per strut, Air Compressor Replacement: $800 - $1,500+, Valve Block Replacement: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Noises from Suspension Components
- Description/Symptoms: Clicking, popping, or creaking sounds coming from suspension.
- Solution: Replace worn sway bar end links, ball joints, or control arm bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner of vehicle
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or displays error messages.
- Solution: Software update of the COMAND system. In severe cases, replacement of the head unit might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $100 - $300, Head Unit Replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains quickly, especially if left parked for a few days.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw on the electrical system. Common culprits include faulty door modules or infotainment system components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source of the draw, typically $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Adaptive Headlight Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Adaptive headlights not functioning correctly, error messages on the dash, lights not leveling.
- Solution: Diagnostics of the headlight system, potentially replacing headlight modules or individual headlights.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight assembly
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, making grinding noises, or failing to open/close completely.
- Solution: Lubrication of sunroof tracks and mechanisms. In severe cases, replacement of the sunroof motor or entire sunroof assembly may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication: $100 - $300, Motor Replacement: $500 - $1,000, Assembly Replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE43 AMG, while offering a blend of performance and luxury, does have some potential issues. Engine oil and coolant leaks are relatively common. Transmission issues related to rough shifting and torque converter malfunctions can occur, leading to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system, are also a concern. While some problems might be resolved with software updates, others require costly component replacements. The severity and cost of these potential issues range from minor annoyances to substantial repairs, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used model.