2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e is a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a blend of luxury and efficiency. The GLE500e features a 3.0L Turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2019 GLE lineup include the GLE350’s 3.5L V6, the GLE43 AMG’s 3.0L Turbo V6, the GLE63 AMG’s 5.5L Turbo V8, and the GLE63 S AMG’s 5.5L Turbo V8. All GLE models for the 2019 model year were equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GLE500e for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and fuel efficiency in hybrid mode. However, some common complaints include the limited all-electric range, the complexity of the hybrid system, and the higher maintenance costs associated with hybrid vehicles.

Electric Motor

GLE500e 3.0L Turbo V6 Hybrid Electric Motor

• Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced electric range over time. The battery may not hold as much charge as it did when new.
  • Solution: Battery replacement or individual cell replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $15,000+ for full battery replacement depending on the shop and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Drivetrain

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Models)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: Transmission control module (TCM) reprogramming or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 for TCM reprogramming; $1,500 - $3,500+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: The GLE uses many sensors to run systems such as park assist, collision avoidance, and stability control. Some owners have reported sensors that fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the shop and location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or slow response times with the COMAND infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500 for software update; $1,000 - $3,000+ for COMAND unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Warning Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The GLE uses many sensors to run systems such as park assist, collision avoidance, and stability control. Some owners have reported warning lights on the dashboard and that the cause of the lights is hard to track.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the issue. If a sensor is the cause, replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the shop and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, compressor failure, error messages related to the air suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts, compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air strut; $500 - $1,500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises when operating, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Sunroof track repair or replacement, motor replacement, or resealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard material, especially in hotter climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the shop and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Issues with Driver Assist Systems
  • Description/Symptoms: Driver assist features such as lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control malfunction due to sensor issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors or recalibration of the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ per sensor depending on the location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e, while offering a luxurious driving experience, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Electrical glitches and infotainment system problems can be frustrating. Suspension issues, especially with the air suspension, can be costly to repair. The battery degradation issue is also a major concern. It is recommended to have a thorough inspection performed by a qualified mechanic before purchasing a used GLE500e, paying close attention to the condition of the hybrid system and suspension components.