The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a popular luxury SUV that offers a quiet and comfortable driving experience.
First, we love the Mercedes Benz models, and the GLE 350 is no exception. It’s a BRILLIANT car with few serious issues – however, it is not completely without its share of issues.
Table of Contents
In this article, we will explore some of the most common problems faced by GLE 350 owners, to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
Check also: Problems across the Mercedes GLE models.
The Main Problems
Electrical and In-Car Electronics Issues
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 has experienced various problems with its electrical system and in-car electronics.
Most notably, the 2020 model has encountered issues related to power equipment and infotainment systems. These problems can lead to reduced performance and user experience in the vehicle.
Minor Engine Problems
Some GLE 350 owners like the ones from 2020 and 2018 versions have reported minor engine issues, typically arising from manufacturing defects or wear and tear over time.
These problems could potentially impact the vehicle’s performance if not addressed promptly.
Suspension Issues
Owners of the 2016 GLE 350 have experienced suspension problems which can affect the vehicle’s handling and stability, particularly during long drives.
Neglecting this issue can ultimately lead to a compromise in the vehicle’s safety.
Keyless-Go System and Key Fob Troubles
Issues related to the Keyless-Go system and key fob have been common in the 2019 and 2020 GLE 350 models.
Owners may face troubles with locking and unlocking the car, opening the tailgate, and using the kick-to-open tailgate functionality.
| Problem | Models Affected |
|---|---|
| Electrical and In-Car Electronics Issues | 2020 GLE 350 |
| Minor Engine Problems | 2018 and 2020 GLE 350 |
| Suspension Issues | 2016 GLE 350 |
| Keyless-Go System and Key Fob Troubles | 2019 and 2020 GLE 350 |
Other Problems
The Mercedes GLE 350 has also faced other minor problems that owners have reported.
To provide a comprehensive understanding of these issues, we have compiled a list of nine additional concerns.
- Keyless Entry Issues: Some owners of 2020 models have faced inconsistency in the functioning of the keyless entry system. The door may not unlock even when the fob is in close proximity, requiring manual intervention using the fob button.
- Electrical System: The 2020 GLE 350 has experienced electrical system problems that may cause some features to malfunction or not work as intended.
- In-Car Electronics: Issues related to in-car electronics have also been reported, affecting the convenience and functionality of various features within the vehicle.
- Climate System Malfunctions: Some 2018 GLE 350 owners have reported occasional issues with their climate control systems, leading to uncomfortable driving conditions.
- Minor Engine Issues: Although not widespread, minor engine problems have been reported in both 2018 and 2020 models which may affect the vehicle’s performance.
- Power Equipment Failures: The 2020 GLE 350 has experienced problems related to power equipment, causing inconvenience to drivers and passengers.
- Suspension Problems: Drivers of the 2016 GLE 350 have reported issues with the vehicle’s suspension, affecting ride quality and handling.
- Exhaust Drone: Early models of the GLE 350 and GLE 400, specifically 2016 and 2017 models, were reported to have constant exhaust drone or high-pitched whine at lower engine RPMs.
- Reliability Concerns: According to Consumer Reports, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE is predicted to be less reliable than the average new car, based on data from 2020 and 2021 models.
These issues, while not as prominent or significant as the primary concerns mentioned in the earlier sections, should still be taken into consideration when evaluating the Mercedes GLE 350.
General Pros and Cons with the Models
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 offers a number of advantages and disadvantages for drivers.
In this section, we will briefly discuss the general pros and cons associated with this luxury SUV model.
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- Comfortable and luxurious interior
- Advanced technological features
- Good overall performance
Cons:
- Expensive maintenance and parts
- Issues with handling and steering
- Problems with wheels and tires
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Engine issues in some models
- Climate system defects
- Suspension problems reported in some versions
It is important to note that these pros and cons may vary depending on the specific model year and version of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350.
How Many Recalls Have There Been
The GLE 350 has faced several recalls over the years, affecting various model years and focusing on different issues. Recalls are generally related to the safety of the vehicle, and it is essential for owners to be aware of them and address them accordingly.
In this section, we will provide an overview of the recalls issued for different generations of the GLE 350.
| Year | Number of Recalls | Key Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 27 | Electronic Stability Program (ESP), software, and wheel torque issues |
| 2021 | 15 | Various safety concerns |
According to the data, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 experienced 27 recalls, with issues related to the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), vehicle software, and torque application to one of the front wheels.
These issues could potentially cause the vehicle to pull to one side during certain evasive driving maneuvers, posing a risk for accidents.
In the 2021 model year, there have been 15 recalls for various safety concerns.
Owners are encouraged to frequently check the recall status of their GLE 350 vehicles using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Mercedes-Benz’s official website or other reliable sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and consumer reports.
Recalls may vary in severity, but they are all worth paying attention to as a vehicle owner. Timely addressing these issues is crucial to maintaining a safe driving experience for all users on the road.
Does It Have More Problems Than Its Competitors?
The Mercedes GLE 350, although a luxurious and well-built vehicle, faces some challenges, particularly when compared to its competitors.
It’s essential to understand these issues and how they stack up against rivals in the luxury SUV market, such as:
- Audi Q7,
- BMW X5,
- Jeep Grand Cherokee,
- Lexus RX,
- and Volvo XC90.
One notable drawback of the GLE 350, as reported by Consumer Reports, is its distracting controls.
This issue can impact the overall driving experience, presenting a challenge when compared to competitors who may have more user-friendly interfaces.
Another problem identified by MotorBiscuit is the GLE 350’s fuel economy, which averages around 20 MPG. In comparison, some of its competitors can offer better fuel efficiency, potentially making them more attractive to environmentally-conscious consumers and those looking to save on fuel costs.
While the GLE 450 and the AMG GLE 53 are known to experience rough downshifts, some users have reported this issue on the GLE 350 as well. Although not as common as the higher-end models, these problems can negatively impact the overall driving experience of the GLE 350 compared to rivals offering smoother transmission performance.
In summary, the Mercedes GLE 350 has its fair share of issues compared to competitors.
However, it still maintains its reputation for luxury and quality, making it a desirable option for those who prioritize comfort and style. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons to determine the model that best suits the buyer’s needs and preferences.
Resale Value
After five years, a Mercedes-Benz GLE is expected to depreciate by around 56%, with an estimated resale value of $39,642.
However, other factors such as mileage, trim level, and condition can significantly affect the resale price.
Prices for used GLE 350 models are influenced by factors like mileage and condition. The table below provides an overview of different model years with varying mileage and their respective resale prices.
| Model Year | Mileage | Price | Depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 12,000 miles | $39,159 | Moderate |
| 2021 | Varies | $46,998 – $102,175 | Moderate |
Depreciation is consistent for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class after 5 years.
The table above demonstrates how different model years have varied prices based on their mileage and other variables. It is important for buyers and sellers to consider these factors when determining a fair price for a used GLE 350.
What Do the Reviews Say?
Mercedes GLE 350 has been reviewed by authoritative automotive sites that highlight both its strengths and areas needing improvement. The most common concerns revolve around the engine’s sound and some wind noise at higher speeds.
“I have the GLE 350 4matic and while the engine’t sound pleasant, the performance is on-par and worth it for better efficiency.”
– Edmunds
“I get the same whistling sound on my ’21 GLE 350 around 55mph but it becomes very noticeable at 70 mph.”
– MBWorld
Despite these issues, reviewers generally praise the GLE 350 for its luxurious interior, strong engine performance, and supportive seats.
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ⓘ The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.