2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e
Overview
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e, a plug-in hybrid variant of the popular GLE-Class SUV, aimed to blend luxury, performance, and efficiency. It featured a sophisticated powertrain combining a V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a notable electric-only range for its time. As a luxury vehicle, it came equipped with advanced technology and premium materials. Reliability for this model is generally considered good, with owners reporting satisfaction with its core mechanicals. However, as with any complex hybrid system and luxury vehicle, specific components can occasionally present issues, particularly those related to the advanced electrical and hybrid systems, and some common Mercedes-Benz electronic quirks.
Engine
3.0L Biturbo V6 (Gasoline) + Electric Motor
Hybrid System Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Reduced electric range, “check engine” light illumination, loss of power, charging issues.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of hybrid battery, power control module, or associated sensors and wiring.
- Cost: $1,500 - $5,000+
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible coolant loss, overheating, sweet smell.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or radiator.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Transmission
7G-TRONIC PLUS (7-Speed Automatic)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
AIRMATIC Air Suspension
Air Strut Leaks/Failure
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “check suspension” warning light, uneven ride height.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts or compressor.
- Cost: $800 - $2,000 per corner
Electrical
Infotainment System
COMAND System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, audio cutting out, navigation errors.
- Solution: Software updates, rebooting the system, or replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $200 - $1,500
Battery Drain
Parasitic Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dying unexpectedly, difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Solution: Diagnosis to find the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory) and repair.
- Cost: $300 - $1,000
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Upholstery & Electronics
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE500e generally offers good reliability, particularly in its core powertrain components. Owners tend to report satisfaction with the vehicle’s performance and luxury features. The primary areas of concern, as expected with a complex plug-in hybrid and luxury SUV, revolve around the hybrid system’s electrical components and potential issues with the AIRMATIC air suspension. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment glitches and parasitic battery drain, are also not uncommon in Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning lights are crucial for maintaining the longevity and reliability of this sophisticated vehicle.