Below Average Reliability

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

W166 (1st Generation) · 3.5L V6 (GLE350, 302hp) / 3.0L Biturbo V6 (GLE400, 329hp) / 5.5L Biturbo V8 (GLE63 AMG S, 577hp) · $26,000 - $58,000

Known Issues — 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE

CRITICAL

AIRMATIC air spring and compressor failure

CRITICAL

V6 balance shaft wear causing knock at higher mileage

CRITICAL

7G-Tronic transmission conductor plate failure

MODERATE

GLE63 M157 V8 oil leaks from front timing cover

MODERATE

Rear wheel bearing noise starting at 60,000-80,000 miles

MINOR

COMAND infotainment rear camera lag

What to Inspect

  • Verify all four air spring corners maintain height after overnight park
  • Check oil level and inspect for V6 internal wear signs
  • Scan 7G-Tronic for conductor plate codes
  • Inspect GLE63 front timing cover and oil cooler area for leaks
  • Test drive at 60+ mph for wheel bearing hum
  • Test rear camera delay and COMAND responsiveness

Expected Maintenance Costs

ServiceIntervalCost
Service A (oil & filter)every 10,000 miles$280-$380
Service B (full inspection)every 20,000 miles$600-$900
Air spring replacement (each)as needed$900-$1,400
Rear wheel bearing (each)as needed$500-$900
Timing chain / balance shaft serviceas needed at 80,000+ miles$3,000-$5,000
Brake pads and rotors (front)every 25,000-35,000 miles$750-$1,150

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