Used Mercedes GLE 2019-present reliability
Category: Luxury SUV
Some rivals are more practical, but the Mercedes GLE has a dazzling interior, is a comfortable cruiser, and comes with plenty of equipment.
What should I look for in a used Mercedes GLE estate?
The majority of GLEs of this generation that are up for sale will still be within the Mercedes franchised dealer network, and will have most probably been reconditioned to look like new before hitting the forecourt.
You shouldn't expect to see any damage under the vehicle because the GLE isn't intended to venture into the wilderness in standard form. The first owner would have needed to specify the optional off road package with extra underbody protection and a special low-range gearbox for tackling tricky terrain.
In the intro section, we mentioned the Airbalance interior perfumer. If your potential purchase has it, try and get the dealer to replace the atomiser as part of the deal because replacements (there are five fragrances to choose from) cost £56 each.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes GLE estate?
Emissions software update
Some examples built between 1 April and 30 June 2019 require a software update to improve emissions. An additional booklet should also be added to the manual pack, and the NOx sensor will need to be checked and replaced if necessary. Find out from your Mercedes dealer if this applies to your GLE.
Wiring harness
The wiring harness routed under the 2nd row could be damaged in cars made from 15 January and 13 December 2019. Ask your Mercedes dealer if your GLE is affected by this because it will need to be checked over and repaired where necessary.
Welding errors
Two recalls have been issued for welding errors. The first is for a structural cross member at the rear of cars manufactured between 21 September and 23 October, while the second is for an issue with the fuel filler pipe that connects to the tank of examples constructed between 1 April and 30 June 2019.
Is a used Mercedes GLE estate reliable?
This generation of GLE wasn't included in the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, although the previous GLE did do quite well in the luxury SUV category, finishing in third place out of 11 cars, so there's hope this latest one will continue that trend.
Meanwhile, Mercedes as a brand finished in a low 23rd place out of 32 manufacturers – a rather disappointing result.
If you would like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.