2020 GLE 350 Transmission Issues?
#26
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2023 GLE450, 2021 E350 / Used to drive: 2019 E300, 2021 + 2020 GLE350, 2019 E450 Wagon(s), 2017 E300
Mine isn't the smoothest, but it isn't materially different than the E450 I traded. I feel like the software that manages all the scenarios around 9 speeds in real world driving can only be so good - mine doesn't bother me enough to do anything about it, but it sure feels clunky sometimes.
#27
Senior Member
Our next vehicle won’t be a Mercedes for sure, too many issue and service is terrible. This brand doesn’t have out trust anymore. Better go with Lexus, Audi or Porsche for that price range.
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#29
Member
Is it really true that it’s a ‘smart transmission’ and learns your style over time? I would feel so much better knowing this to be true as I only have 500 miles on my first Mercedes and hoping this is not what the drive is going to be like.
#30
Senior Member
- when someone makes such a claim, you know for sure that they don’t know what they are talkin a bout and trying to buy time and brush you off. I’ve been to the dealer numerous times with transmission and other issues and most of the time is just BS, so they can get you off their back. A “clunky” transmission wouldn’t simply “learn” and correct itself. There’s either a programming and /or mechanical problems.
#31
Senior Member
- my experience isn’t only based on MB dealer experience but also MB headquarters, who told me that all of the problems on their $75K vehicle are “within range” and “normal”.
#32
Super Member
I have a brand new GLE 350 but the transmission seems to be pretty crappy. I'm wondering if its only me or does anyone else experience the same issues? The transmission is very jerky, when coming to a stop and the car automatically shifting to 2nd gear, the car kinda lunges forward while downshifts. It's hard to explain but the transmission shifting just seems like its not very smooth at all. I'm wondering If anyone else is experiencing this? The car only has about 200 miles on it so maybe the gears need to break in a bit but I still don't think it will help
Last edited by TexAg91; 07-18-2021 at 07:42 PM.
#33
Member
- when someone makes such a claim, you know for sure that they don’t know what they are talkin a bout and trying to buy time and brush you off. I’ve been to the dealer numerous times with transmission and other issues and most of the time is just BS, so they can get you off their back. A “clunky” transmission wouldn’t simply “learn” and correct itself. There’s either a programming and /or mechanical problems.
#34
Senior Member
Not to say you don't have a problem, however keep in mind the GLE uses a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which does not use a torque converter to smooth the shifts. So the downshifts in a DCT will feel like downshifts in a manual transmission, meaning engine rpm change during down shifts will happen more abruptly and will be felt as engine braking. The linked video will show you how a DCT works (How a DCT works) compared to a torque converter automatic.
So does the jerking you are experiencing feel like downshifts in a standard transmission when you engage a lower gear to allow for engine braking?
Also, have you tried driving in economy mode (more free wheeling coasting allowed), does that help? The DCT will be more aggressive during sport mode, to keep power flowing to the wheels. The learning done by the computer is the timing of the shifts based on your driving style. If you like to brake aggressively, it will learn to use more engine braking to put less wear on the brakes.
So does the jerking you are experiencing feel like downshifts in a standard transmission when you engage a lower gear to allow for engine braking?
Also, have you tried driving in economy mode (more free wheeling coasting allowed), does that help? The DCT will be more aggressive during sport mode, to keep power flowing to the wheels. The learning done by the computer is the timing of the shifts based on your driving style. If you like to brake aggressively, it will learn to use more engine braking to put less wear on the brakes.
so this luxury sophisticated Dual Clutch Automatic translation- feels like A Manual transmission downshifting ?
if a basic economy vehicle for one fifth of the price for a Mercedes can shift smoothly, why can’t this $75K vehicle transmission shift smoothly?
#35
Super Member
- Are you saying this is normal for this type of transmission?
so this luxury sophisticated Dual Clutch Automatic translation- feels like A Manual transmission downshifting ?
if a basic economy vehicle for one fifth of the price for a Mercedes can shift smoothly, why can’t this $75K vehicle transmission shift smoothly?
so this luxury sophisticated Dual Clutch Automatic translation- feels like A Manual transmission downshifting ?
if a basic economy vehicle for one fifth of the price for a Mercedes can shift smoothly, why can’t this $75K vehicle transmission shift smoothly?
Last edited by TexAg91; 07-18-2021 at 07:43 PM.
#36
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2023 GLE450, 2021 E350 / Used to drive: 2019 E300, 2021 + 2020 GLE350, 2019 E450 Wagon(s), 2017 E300
Tex, I get a clunky 2-1 downshift with a mild "push" of the vehicle as I roll to a stop. It's not much different than the new Ford 10 speed in the F150 and other recent complex transmissions.
Roni - not saying you should not take it to be looked at, but many many complex 8/9/10 speed transmissions (Ford / ZF - many applications / MB) have drive ability characteristics that seem clumsy.
I think the trade off of acceleration / fuel economy /performance (which is pretty impressive given that a 4,700 pound SUV is pulled around by a 2.0L 4 cylinder) is one of the things that drives transmission complexity these days...
Anyway - hope the dealer can sort it out to your satisfaction.
Roni - not saying you should not take it to be looked at, but many many complex 8/9/10 speed transmissions (Ford / ZF - many applications / MB) have drive ability characteristics that seem clumsy.
I think the trade off of acceleration / fuel economy /performance (which is pretty impressive given that a 4,700 pound SUV is pulled around by a 2.0L 4 cylinder) is one of the things that drives transmission complexity these days...
Anyway - hope the dealer can sort it out to your satisfaction.
#37
Senior Member
Tex, I get a clunky 2-1 downshift with a mild "push" of the vehicle as I roll to a stop. It's not much different than the new Ford 10 speed in the F150 and other recent complex transmissions.
Roni - not saying you should not take it to be looked at, but many many complex 8/9/10 speed transmissions (Ford / ZF - many applications / MB) have drive ability characteristics that seem clumsy.
I think the trade off of acceleration / fuel economy /performance (which is pretty impressive given that a 4,700 pound SUV is pulled around by a 2.0L 4 cylinder) is one of the things that drives transmission complexity these days...
Anyway - hope the dealer can sort it out to your satisfaction.
Roni - not saying you should not take it to be looked at, but many many complex 8/9/10 speed transmissions (Ford / ZF - many applications / MB) have drive ability characteristics that seem clumsy.
I think the trade off of acceleration / fuel economy /performance (which is pretty impressive given that a 4,700 pound SUV is pulled around by a 2.0L 4 cylinder) is one of the things that drives transmission complexity these days...
Anyway - hope the dealer can sort it out to your satisfaction.
#38
MBWorld Fanatic!
I’ve got the 2020 GLS450, owned it for about a week now (love it). But I too have the hiccup kick-downs on the lower gears when coming to a stop. Another poster mentioned these 9G-Tronic transmissions are dual clutch. I don’t think that is correct? I do agree this downshifting pattern is very much like a dual clutch transmission, which I am very familiar with via 10 years of also having a VW GTI (2007, 2013, 2015 - MK’s 5,6,7), each with a slightly different version of the gearbox. My current 2015 is probably the best version yet for them. And it too hiccups in the lower gears when coming to a stop. Just the way it is for the design, but they must’ve finally figured out how to smooth it out better because they finally put it into the Bentley (they own Bentley).
However, I don’t think we have a dual clutch here. I think the hiccups are influenced by the EQ Boost battery recharging system off the brakes and a computer program that isn’t quite perfected between the release of the brakes and the downshift. I could be wrong here, but the link below is what I found on the 9G. I notice when after I do slow down and then speed back up again (without stopping completely), the battery is still recharging even though I’m completely on the gas and accelerating again. That somehow makes me think friction is still happening ever so slightly to generate the recharging effect to the hybrid battery?
I suspect the “reprogramming” done at the dealership is little more than the old tried and true process of holding down the gas peddle for 30 seconds while the ignition is on but motor is off routine to clear out the learning memory and reset the shift patterns back to default. It’s a common trick used on the 7G over on the E sedan when it starts acting lumpy on acceleration.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.mbs...nsmission/amp/
However, I don’t think we have a dual clutch here. I think the hiccups are influenced by the EQ Boost battery recharging system off the brakes and a computer program that isn’t quite perfected between the release of the brakes and the downshift. I could be wrong here, but the link below is what I found on the 9G. I notice when after I do slow down and then speed back up again (without stopping completely), the battery is still recharging even though I’m completely on the gas and accelerating again. That somehow makes me think friction is still happening ever so slightly to generate the recharging effect to the hybrid battery?
I suspect the “reprogramming” done at the dealership is little more than the old tried and true process of holding down the gas peddle for 30 seconds while the ignition is on but motor is off routine to clear out the learning memory and reset the shift patterns back to default. It’s a common trick used on the 7G over on the E sedan when it starts acting lumpy on acceleration.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.mbs...nsmission/amp/
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#39
Member
- when someone makes such a claim, you know for sure that they don’t know what they are talkin a bout and trying to buy time and brush you off. I’ve been to the dealer numerous times with transmission and other issues and most of the time is just BS, so they can get you off their back. A “clunky” transmission wouldn’t simply “learn” and correct itself. There’s either a programming and /or mechanical problems.
I don't know if this applies for their personal vehicles though, but I don't see why they don't. Its been like this on the trucks for 6-7-8 years since the MP4 came out.
#41
Member
Just a thought after reading the responses. My GLE has exhibited some of the above comments but I believe it is mostly attributed to engine management when the turbo tries to compensate for lack of power. My GLE drives horrible up in the Rockies but on the Atlantic coast it is much better but does "surge" allot when in hot days in stop and go traffic. The car drives much better when the engine is cold as more fuel is put through the injectors. I wish there was a way to give the injectors just a minute amount of more pulse width fuel.
Robert
Robert
#42
MBWorld Fanatic!
A lot things going on at the same time when it comes to stopping on these cars. I do agree they learn. Ours appears to be quieting down a bit as we get used to how to apply the power and control it. Definitely all cars drive differently.
On ours, I notice the hiccup sometimes during the gear change down as we come to a stop, but I also notice it when it’s not changing the gear but coming to a slow stop in general. I see the “charge” side active on the battery when it happens. Really does make me think it’s somehow related to the EQ Boost system and it’s charging grab off the brakes and the use of the system in the whole starter assembly. I think it’s a programming issue moreso a mechanical problem. Software just isn’t quite there for total perfection yet.
On ours, I notice the hiccup sometimes during the gear change down as we come to a stop, but I also notice it when it’s not changing the gear but coming to a slow stop in general. I see the “charge” side active on the battery when it happens. Really does make me think it’s somehow related to the EQ Boost system and it’s charging grab off the brakes and the use of the system in the whole starter assembly. I think it’s a programming issue moreso a mechanical problem. Software just isn’t quite there for total perfection yet.
#43
Senior Member
It seems we all know about it but Mercedes- weird. You would think MB would actually push out a reprocessing reprogramming fix so we all stop complaint about it on the internet but no Mb just won’t do it or simple doesn’t want to. I don’t know which one is it
#44
GLE 450 2020 4 matic
I have exact problem I’ve take my car to the local dealer twice and they reprogram the transmission and they’ve tested many times they reported nothing with transmission an have safe journey!! I should email MB hq.
Comparing with my old car was Taurus 2014
totally different and very very smooth transmission 🥺 I lose my money with this expensive car.. does any one have a solution?
Comparing with my old car was Taurus 2014
totally different and very very smooth transmission 🥺 I lose my money with this expensive car.. does any one have a solution?
#45
Senior Member
I have exact problem I’ve take my car to the local dealer twice and they reprogram the transmission and they’ve tested many times they reported nothing with transmission an have safe journey!! I should email MB hq.
Comparing with my old car was Taurus 2014
totally different and very very smooth transmission 🥺 I lose my money with this expensive car.. does any one have a solution?
Comparing with my old car was Taurus 2014
totally different and very very smooth transmission 🥺 I lose my money with this expensive car.. does any one have a solution?
#46
I have a 2020 GLE 350 I got in May 2019, From day 1 I have had transmission problems. The car frequently will stick in D1 and redline, usually when starting out from a stop. Sometimes it will stick in D3. My dealership installed Kahu vehicle info system in the car, so I had text messages Kahu sent to me indicating the vehicle is exceeding safe RPMs. It has been to three different MB dealerships in NY and FL. Since they cannot experience this problem when they drive my car, they say it doesn't exist. Everyone really is trying to help, and computer resets etc. But when I get the car back, notes say I am likely accidentally hitting paddle shifters. REALLY?!!!! Repeated calls to MBUSA and all I have received is a case number with engineering dept. This is my 6th ML/GLE since 2008. When I ordered this car last winter, I had reservations about a 4 cylinder and wanted the 450, but they assured me this would have as much or more power than the 2018 I was turning in. My family has a long history of many cars with MB. This will be the last one. I will be getting a Cayenne or X5 as soon as I can figure out how to get rid of this ****box with minimal financial loss.
#48
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2020 S560 Sedan, 2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, '24 BMW I7 on order...
In another thread here, I posted that the 2021 GLE450 I ordered had just shown up at the dealer, but with them demanding $5K over MSRP, and the vehicle built without two options I ordered, I decided to to pass on it. Another nail in the coffin was reading about all of these harsh shifting GLE transmissions, an issue I currently have with my 2020 S560, for which MBUSA has offered to buy the car back.
WTF? This isn’t one or two guys complaining about one or two models, it appears to be at least thousands of vehicles throughout the brand. It also appears that MB knows how to fix the problem, but in doing so, they would violate some EPA certification and find themselves in hot water with the US government. So, they are handling it on a case by case basis. Those who scream the loudest will probably get a buy back, while others may just have to suffer with the problem. This is what happens when an automaker pushes the envelope to get the last few INCHES to a gallon of gas so they can meet CAFE standards. Folks with normal, everyday vehicles like a GLE or an S Class sedan end up suffering so MB can offer monster vehicles like the C63S, the G63 and untold AMG 63 somethings. What a travesty. What a crying SHAME!
WTF? This isn’t one or two guys complaining about one or two models, it appears to be at least thousands of vehicles throughout the brand. It also appears that MB knows how to fix the problem, but in doing so, they would violate some EPA certification and find themselves in hot water with the US government. So, they are handling it on a case by case basis. Those who scream the loudest will probably get a buy back, while others may just have to suffer with the problem. This is what happens when an automaker pushes the envelope to get the last few INCHES to a gallon of gas so they can meet CAFE standards. Folks with normal, everyday vehicles like a GLE or an S Class sedan end up suffering so MB can offer monster vehicles like the C63S, the G63 and untold AMG 63 somethings. What a travesty. What a crying SHAME!
#49
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2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
The shifting is not widespread…not even mentioned until recently. Mercedes has built a lot of GLE’s. My April 2019 build was 77,000+ & October 2021 build was well over 370,000+. The drive train seems to be by far the most solid quality of all components, IMO.
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#50
My 2018 gle43 with the 9 speed has shifted hard since day 1. Pretty sure MB has told all dealerships to deny the issue. The first time they drove it the tech agreed that something was wrong. Then several days later I get a call from the service manager telling me it was actually fine fine. Every time I bring it in since they say it’s normal…