2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. The GLE450 comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with EQ Boost, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2021 GLE include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 in the GLE350 and a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 in the GLE580 and AMG GLE63 S. All GLE models utilize a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the GLE450’s luxurious features, smooth ride, and powerful engine. Some common complaints include the complex infotainment system, occasional glitches with the electronics, and higher than average repair costs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (M256)

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illuminated. Diagnostic codes may indicate issues with the ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Auxiliary Coolant Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, check engine light, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty auxiliary coolant pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting gears, jerking motions during acceleration, and overall rough or unpredictable shifts.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or shaking sensation, most noticeable at lower speeds or during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change with updated fluid formulation, or torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, failure to maintain ride height, “Vehicle Level Too Low” warning, compressor failure.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air struts, repair or replace the air compressor, and check for leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut depending on which one failed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, screen goes blank, unresponsive touch controls, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset. In some cases, replacement of the MBUX unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are usually free at the dealer. Replacement of the unit can be $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the vehicle, warning lights related to low voltage.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic drains, replace faulty battery, check alternator charging output.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, or parking sensors may become intermittent or stop working entirely.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor, inspect wiring, and replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the sensor and location
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise when opening or closing, or leak water into the cabin.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks and seals, repair or replace the sunroof motor, or replace damaged seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) - $1,500+ (motor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat fails to adjust, makes grinding noises, or moves erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trim Pieces Loosening/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Various trim pieces within the cabin become loose, causing rattling noises while driving.
  • Solution: Re-secure or replace the loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 has some known issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant powertrain and suspension problems. The infotainment system and air suspension (if equipped) are prone to issues that can be costly to repair. Engine and transmission problems can also be expensive, especially if they require major component replacements. While the GLE450 offers a luxurious driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the possibility of higher maintenance and repair costs.