I have a 2021 GLE450. It has the software update related to the recall for potentially dangerous downshifting. I was never super happy with the occasional abrupt downshifting but I was aware of it prior to purchase as a limitation of the Merc GLE transmission and I live with it. Software update didn't make much difference. For the past 2-3 months it has evolved a problem: when crawling forward at very slow speeds in traffic or going up steep hills at low speed the transmission feels like it slips very slightly every few seconds. This is not associated with a gear shift. It is most noticeable in 2nd gear but also slightly noticeable in 3rd. I have a 100% coverage plan with MB for all service and maintenance. Mileage is 60000kms (approx. 37,500 miles). I also hear an occasional 'whoop' type sound - not very loud and perhaps every 5-10 mins at slow speeds. I have had it at the dealer three times now. Each time they shift the software to the latest version. On the visit they also recoded the transmission and took a sample of transmission oil for analysis which they found no issues with. Nevertheless I continue to have the issue. Any ideas. I am asking them to consider replacing the torque converter and transmission at their expense but the evidence to do so is light at present. Anyone else have a similar issue or any ideas?

 

You could request for a "Forced adaptation" : https://mbworld.org/forums/s-class-w...ml#post7961182

 

Although mine didn't start downshifting strangely until about 35,000 mi. , mine was fixed with a new thing called a "Standstill Adaptation." It took them twice to get it to take, according to the work orders. August '24.
https://mbworld.org/forums/gle-class...ml#post9026943

 

I see, the forced adaptation isn't the same as the standstill?

 

I have no idea what a forced adaptation is. They may be the same.
The only time I've seen the "standstill" mentioned is on the work order I attached to that post.

 

The adaptation (or at least a reset of adaptation settings) is what I understand them to have done on my third visit. It didn't have any effect on the issue though. I didn't really expect it to as the jerk/slip is not associated with a gear change - unless the transmission 'thinks' about a gear change but doesn't go through with it

 

I see. Thanks for the tip.

 

no OP, you need to specifically ask for a "Standstill adaptation" or "Forced adaptation" or both, they won't do these types of adaptation unless you ask or MB Germany instructs them to do so because it takes time, at least the forced adaptation takes time. A regular adaptation is probably just pressing a few buttons in XENTRY so it is different. If your dealership isn't willing to cooperate, switch.

By the way, I am not sure if you came across this thread yet but it has more details and other forum members sharing their experience with this vehicle's transmission: https://mbworld.org/forums/gle-class...ecently-3.html