2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. The GLE450 features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2020 GLE include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 in the GLE350 and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the GLE580 and AMG GLE63 S. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the GLE450’s luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology features. However, some common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, electrical glitches, and occasional suspension problems.

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system can freeze, lag, or crash, requiring a restart. This affects navigation, media, and vehicle settings.
  • Solution: Software updates from Mercedes-Benz can often resolve these issues. In some cases, the MBUX unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update) - $1,500+ (MBUX Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery can drain prematurely, leading to starting issues and requiring frequent jump starts. This is sometimes linked to parasitic draw from various electronic modules.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic draw and replace the faulty module. Common culprits include the seat control module, telematics module, and entertainment system. Battery replacement and software updates are also common solutions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the module.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors or blind spot monitoring systems may malfunction, providing false alerts or failing to detect objects. This can be due to faulty sensors or software glitches.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the specific faulty sensor. Replacement of the affected sensor and software recalibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to sag, ride roughly, or display warning messages. This can be due to leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or issues with the control module.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the leak or failure. Replacement of the faulty air strut, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or rattling noises coming from the dashboard area, especially on uneven roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the noise. This may involve adding felt tape, tightening screws, or replacing loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or leak when closed.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks, replace the motor, or replace the seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (M256)

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage. The water pump on the M256 engine can fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light - Various Causes
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates, often accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying issue. This can be caused by a variety of problems, ranging from minor sensor failures to more serious mechanical issues.
  • Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify the fault code. Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, rough or jerky shifts between gears, and occasional slipping. This can be caused by valve body issues, low transmission fluid, or worn clutches.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill. Valve body replacement or repair. In severe cases, a complete transmission overhaul or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is a luxurious SUV with some common issues, primarily related to its electrical systems and, if equipped, the air suspension. The MBUX infotainment system glitches and 12V battery drain are the most frequently reported electrical problems. Engine and transmission issues, while less common, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues are also relatively common and can be expensive to fix. Overall, while the GLE450 offers a premium driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs and maintenance.