2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and technology. The GLE500 is powered by a 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 Engine that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2019 GLE include a 3.0L Turbo V6, a 3.5L V6, and a 2.0L Turbo Inline-4. There’s also the AMG GLE 43 and AMG GLE 63 variants that offer higher performance. Owners generally appreciate the GLE’s luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine options. Common dislikes include the somewhat dated infotainment system (before the MBUX update), higher running costs, and occasional electronic glitches.

Engine

4.7L Twin Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks (Turbo Oil Line)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the turbocharger oil lines, resulting in a burning smell and potential loss of oil pressure.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger oil lines with updated versions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears (1st to 3rd). Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). If the issue persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update ($150-$300), Valve body replacement ($1,500 - $3,000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ride height control malfunction, “malfunction” warning light. Compressor failure is a common cause.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific component failure (air strut, air spring, compressor, valve block) and replace the faulty part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Strut ($1,000 - $2,500+ per strut), Compressor ($800 - $1,500+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, screen goes black, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update ($150-$300), Replacement ($1,000-$3,000+)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not driven for a few days. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing individual components and circuits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera not working, showing a black screen, or displaying distorted video.
  • Solution: Replace the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, making excessive noise during operation, or failing to close completely. Can also be issues with water leaks.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. If the motor or other components are faulty, replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication/Cleaning ($100-$300), Motor/Component Replacement ($500 - $1,500+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary:

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500, while a luxurious and capable SUV, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around the air suspension, electrical systems (infotainment and battery drain), and transmission. The engine itself seems relatively reliable, but turbo oil leaks are a possibility. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor software updates or component replacements to several thousand dollars for major suspension or transmission work. It’s recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles to identify any potential problems before buying.