2016/2017 GLE 350 headlight problem
#26
Member
Well, people buy them with the halogens installed. I have wondered what the ratio of them sold with halogens versus LED/Xenons is. Not sure if buyers that have never used the upgraded lights are just wanting to save money on their purchase, that's what dealers are stocking for lower price points, some buyers just don't know any different so they don't actively look for the upgrade, etc. I'm sure it is some combination of all of them.
I haven't had the upgraded lights on any of my previous vehicles but after researching them, I thought it was a no brainer to prioritize the active LED lights on the vehicle when I began my search.
I haven't had the upgraded lights on any of my previous vehicles but after researching them, I thought it was a no brainer to prioritize the active LED lights on the vehicle when I began my search.
#27
Well, people buy them with the halogens installed. I have wondered what the ratio of them sold with halogens versus LED/Xenons is. Not sure if buyers that have never used the upgraded lights are just wanting to save money on their purchase, that's what dealers are stocking for lower price points, some buyers just don't know any different so they don't actively look for the upgrade, etc. I'm sure it is some combination of all of them.
I haven't had the upgraded lights on any of my previous vehicles but after researching them, I thought it was a no brainer to prioritize the active LED lights on the vehicle when I began my search.
I haven't had the upgraded lights on any of my previous vehicles but after researching them, I thought it was a no brainer to prioritize the active LED lights on the vehicle when I began my search.
#28
The Halogen lights are really bad. Just tried to install Morimoto 55 watt H7 kit w/ canbus on 2017 GLE 350. Didn't work. Passenger side worked but not the driver side. I tried to even problem solve the new components switching back and forth to check if there was any defects that were sent to me. The car just doesn't like it.
#30
Junior Member
![Angry](https://mbworld.org/forums/images/icons/icon8.gif)
i was just driving tonight in my '17 GLE, it's currently raining in Los Angeles. Totally terrible headlamps. I turned them on and off while driving and there was pretty much no difference. This car has been a nightmare (issues with interior quality, reliability, headlights) and I am so glad my lease ends in June.
#31
Hello All,
I recently purchased a 2017 GLE 350. my old car was 2013 BMW 528i.
the headlight on the GLE are 1/3 as bright as the BMW, and the range is 30 feet at best, my BMW I can see 70+ feet. I've avoided driving the GLE at night, and MBZ dealer is telling me this is normal for GLE.! I don't think this GLE is safe at night, especially I drive in Hilly areas with few street lights.
Anyone else noticed this problem.? I know there is a $1200 upgrade kit, but I wish the Dealer told me that ONLY the Running Daylights they showed me were LED, but the headlights are 1990 model. Disgraceful. Even my 2004 E320 had stronger headlights. Is this like the Volkswagen Diesel secret.?
Thanks, M.
I recently purchased a 2017 GLE 350. my old car was 2013 BMW 528i.
the headlight on the GLE are 1/3 as bright as the BMW, and the range is 30 feet at best, my BMW I can see 70+ feet. I've avoided driving the GLE at night, and MBZ dealer is telling me this is normal for GLE.! I don't think this GLE is safe at night, especially I drive in Hilly areas with few street lights.
Anyone else noticed this problem.? I know there is a $1200 upgrade kit, but I wish the Dealer told me that ONLY the Running Daylights they showed me were LED, but the headlights are 1990 model. Disgraceful. Even my 2004 E320 had stronger headlights. Is this like the Volkswagen Diesel secret.?
Thanks, M.
#32
1st, let's continue to file complaints with MB USA, also with NHTSA, DMV and US Dept of Transportation. the more GLE owners call and email these Orgs, the better for us to force MB to take ownership of this issue.
my MB Dealer said car is as designed. I asked them to draw papers to return GLE and Break the lease, as I won't drive it as is. they will get back to me with solutions. I know about the Halogen to HID kit, but surely I feel betrayed by Mercedes, and would rather not pay them any more money.
thanks for your support guys. It's a shame that such a nice SUV has to be such a pain in the ***. M.
my MB Dealer said car is as designed. I asked them to draw papers to return GLE and Break the lease, as I won't drive it as is. they will get back to me with solutions. I know about the Halogen to HID kit, but surely I feel betrayed by Mercedes, and would rather not pay them any more money.
thanks for your support guys. It's a shame that such a nice SUV has to be such a pain in the ***. M.
#33
Senior Member
It’s a joke that a $70K luxury vehicle comes with such low quality head lights. I had to spend an extra $7K to get the bi-xenon lights- super bright,
the LED aren’t that great either.
the LED aren’t that great either.
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WN1X (01-03-2021)
#35
I have the Active LED Headlamps with Active Curve Illumination from P3. P2 and P1 have a different set of headlights ?
#36
Senior Member
our sales guy said many folks wanted to return/exchange the LEDs for the Bi-Xenon, after taking possession of the vehicle but MB said, No.
Last edited by Roni07; 03-05-2020 at 02:16 PM.
#37
My 2008 VW GLI (with cloth seats and a manual transmission) came with HID’s standard. The Infiniti I had after did too. Now this $60k+ sticker price GLE doesn’t. Crazy. First time since 08 I haven’t had them. As much as I hate it, going to have to do the HID retrofit.
I wish there was a way to add the OEM HID’s. I’d be willing to pay good money for that, but not replace the entire front end and rewire money it seems like it would take.
I wish there was a way to add the OEM HID’s. I’d be willing to pay good money for that, but not replace the entire front end and rewire money it seems like it would take.
#38
Senior Member
My 2008 VW GLI (with cloth seats and a manual transmission) came with HID’s standard. The Infiniti I had after did too. Now this $60k+ sticker price GLE doesn’t. Crazy. First time since 08 I haven’t had them. As much as I hate it, going to have to do the HID retrofit.
I wish there was a way to add the OEM HID’s. I’d be willing to pay good money for that, but not replace the entire front end and rewire money it seems like it would take.
I wish there was a way to add the OEM HID’s. I’d be willing to pay good money for that, but not replace the entire front end and rewire money it seems like it would take.
Toyota only puts regular LED lights no all of their vehicles. Bi-Xenon not an available option. Once you go up to Lexus then they have the Super bright LEDs (dint know what Lexus calls them)
I test drove a Toyota Sienna and it has horrible lights, could barely see at night.
#39
Senior Member
I found a good article on auto trader that I thought would help "illuminate" this discussion
Xenons vs. LEDs: What's the Difference?
Although we'll spare you the technical details, a simplified explanation of the main difference between LED headlights and Xenons (sometimes called high-intensity discharge lights, or HIDs) is this: Xenon headlights are essentially very bright, ultraintense versions of normal light blubs, while LEDs use an entirely different process to create light -- one that relies on diodes and electrons rather than a filament and gas.Because of their differences, the two types of lights have some advantages and disadvantages compared to one another. LEDs hold almost all the advantages, including size (they're smaller, which allows them to be fitted more easily in car designs), lifespan (they last longer) and energy consumption (they use very little). Not surprisingly, however, LEDs are a lot more expensive to make than Xenons -- and that's why many automakers have been holding off on using the technology until recently.
Which Is Best?If you're looking for the best possible illumination, we think LEDs usually outshine their Xenon headlight rivals. Of course, it depends on exactly how many LEDs are present -- but most modern cars with LED lighting technology seem to offer better illumination, a warmer light and an illuminated area that's a little larger than it is in most cars with Xenons.
With that said, Xenon lighting technology has come very far over the years -- and Xenons aren't exactly low on light. In most popular cars using Xenons today, the overall illumination would probably fall just short of LEDs -- if you can tell the difference at all. And while LEDs will last longer than Xenons, both will last for many years -- likely longer than most drivers will own their vehicles.
Which Should You Get?
If you have the opportunity to buy a car with LED headlights at roughly the same price as a model with Xenon lights, we suggest going for the LEDs. They use less energy, they offer slightly better illumination, and they'll last longer. But if the cost is dramatically more, we'd probably skip it. That's because Xenon headlights are also excellent -- and we'd have a hard time justifying a big price increase to get LEDs, given their relatively few benefits. As LEDs become cheaper to make, however, expect to see them in a wider range of vehicles.
#40
Senior Member
Thanks for sharing. So LED are more costly to make than Bi-Xenon ? Wow. LEDs come standard and MBcharges a very big premium for Bi-Xenon lights.
OK I just found out what the Terminology issue is with these LED lights vs Bi-Xenon MB is offering on under “Lighting Package” on their vehicles, thus the confusion. Located my previous vehicles window stickers
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
MB charges the same $1,500 on both. The difference is, you can’t add the Bi-Xenons unless you pick the Premium Package $7,000.
Now, looking at both vehicles the headlights look the same.
I have seen on side-by-side GLE vehicles and the difference between the Regular Standard LED lamp compared to the Bi-Xenon lights is HUGE. Bi-Xenons are Extremely Brighter compared to the LEDs.
no wonder people were confused by MB switch in terminology when looking at the Lighting Options. Customer complained that the stock LED lights were so dim, that it was dangerous driving at night. I would have to agree. There are different versions of LED lamps but MB”s version is not very bright nor good, considering it’s a luxury vehicle.
OK I just found out what the Terminology issue is with these LED lights vs Bi-Xenon MB is offering on under “Lighting Package” on their vehicles, thus the confusion. Located my previous vehicles window stickers
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
MB charges the same $1,500 on both. The difference is, you can’t add the Bi-Xenons unless you pick the Premium Package $7,000.
Now, looking at both vehicles the headlights look the same.
I have seen on side-by-side GLE vehicles and the difference between the Regular Standard LED lamp compared to the Bi-Xenon lights is HUGE. Bi-Xenons are Extremely Brighter compared to the LEDs.
no wonder people were confused by MB switch in terminology when looking at the Lighting Options. Customer complained that the stock LED lights were so dim, that it was dangerous driving at night. I would have to agree. There are different versions of LED lamps but MB”s version is not very bright nor good, considering it’s a luxury vehicle.
Last edited by Roni07; 03-06-2020 at 02:42 PM.
#41
Senior Member
Thanks for sharing. So LED are more costly to make than Bi-Xenon ? Wow. LEDs come standard and MBcharges a very big premium for Bi-Xenon lights.
OK I just found out what the Terminology issue is with these LED lights bs Bi-Xenon MB is offering on under “Lighting Package” on their vehicles, thus the confusion. Located my previous vehicles window stickers
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
MB charges the same $1,500 for both. The difference is, you can’t add the Bi-Xenons unless you pick the Premium Package $7,000.
Now, looking at both vehicles the headlights look the same.
I have seen on side-by-side GLE vehicles and the difference between the Regular Standard LED lamp compared to the Bi-Xenon lights is HUGE. No-Xenons are Extremely Brighter compared to the LEDs.
no wonder people were confused by MB switch in terminology when looking at the Lighting Options. Customer complained that the stock LED lights were so dim, that it was dangerous driving at night. I would have to agree. There are different versions of LED lamps but MB”s version is not very bright nor good, considering it’s a luxury vehicle.
OK I just found out what the Terminology issue is with these LED lights bs Bi-Xenon MB is offering on under “Lighting Package” on their vehicles, thus the confusion. Located my previous vehicles window stickers
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
MB charges the same $1,500 for both. The difference is, you can’t add the Bi-Xenons unless you pick the Premium Package $7,000.
Now, looking at both vehicles the headlights look the same.
I have seen on side-by-side GLE vehicles and the difference between the Regular Standard LED lamp compared to the Bi-Xenon lights is HUGE. No-Xenons are Extremely Brighter compared to the LEDs.
no wonder people were confused by MB switch in terminology when looking at the Lighting Options. Customer complained that the stock LED lights were so dim, that it was dangerous driving at night. I would have to agree. There are different versions of LED lamps but MB”s version is not very bright nor good, considering it’s a luxury vehicle.
Halogen lights are standard on the GLE Not LED’s.
Led’s are the ONLY upgrade.
i have the optional Led’s and they are Awesome!
#42
Senior Member
1. light assembly -you can see the smaller halogen light + standard LED
2. Light assembly with Bi-Xenon Lights aka Dynamic LED
![](https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbworld.org-vbulletin/1240x698/5eef8981_0d24_47de_9ee6_e0ee8dfcd17c_75fcec7320ec4f7f813264a5af2b3879bf7247fc.jpeg)
![](https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbworld.org-vbulletin/2000x1124/558a84eb_c6c4_4c09_bbe6_2d458cb034d7_662ca7f3c765428dc307acc9fb0536fe665b4587.jpeg)
#43
Senior Member
Roni07
Your first picture is the halogen lights and the second picture is the LED’s. The second large round projector in the first picture is not an LED type of light. You probably think it is because of the projector...
There are no bi- xenon’s available on this vehicle.
Bi-xenon or High Intensity Discharge lights are a type of very high intensity bulb that this car does not have.
Here is a VERY detailed explanation... Enjoy!
https://www.theretrofitsource.com/ha...s-hid-vs-laser
Your first picture is the halogen lights and the second picture is the LED’s. The second large round projector in the first picture is not an LED type of light. You probably think it is because of the projector...
There are no bi- xenon’s available on this vehicle.
Bi-xenon or High Intensity Discharge lights are a type of very high intensity bulb that this car does not have.
Here is a VERY detailed explanation... Enjoy!
https://www.theretrofitsource.com/ha...s-hid-vs-laser
Last edited by Chefcct; 03-06-2020 at 03:16 PM.
#44
Senior Member
Roni07
Your first picture is the halogen lights and the second picture is the LED’s. The second large round projector in the first picture is not an LED type of light. You probably think it is because of the projector...
There are no bi- xenon’s available on this vehicle.
Bi-xenon or High Intensity Discharge lights are a type of very high intensity bulb that this car does not have.
Your first picture is the halogen lights and the second picture is the LED’s. The second large round projector in the first picture is not an LED type of light. You probably think it is because of the projector...
There are no bi- xenon’s available on this vehicle.
Bi-xenon or High Intensity Discharge lights are a type of very high intensity bulb that this car does not have.
I have both vehicles as I mentioned previously and confirmed by the MB window sticker, Both vehicles have the same light assembly, one says Bi-Xenon Dynamic Active Curve Assist lights and the other LED Active Dynamic Active Curve Assist lights.
i don’t know the electronics inside, I’m looking at both vehicle’s head light assembly and reading the description on the window sticker
#45
Senior Member
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
This car has the more intense HID bulbs instead of a “regular” halogen bulb.
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
This car has the LED lights as an option.
The standard lights on the GLE have the “regular” halogen bulbs and are not very bright as everyone has stated previously.
I hope this helps!
This car has the more intense HID bulbs instead of a “regular” halogen bulb.
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
This car has the LED lights as an option.
The standard lights on the GLE have the “regular” halogen bulbs and are not very bright as everyone has stated previously.
I hope this helps!
#46
COol, Looks like the P3 comes with upgraded lights. I'm really liking the active curve illimunation.
-On my 2013 CLK 350, under Optional “Lighting Package” it says Bi-Xenon Headlamps with Active Curve illumination
This car has the more intense HID bulbs instead of a “regular” halogen bulb.
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
This car has the LED lights as an option.
The standard lights on the GLE have the “regular” halogen bulbs and are not very bright as everyone has stated previously.
I hope this helps!
This car has the more intense HID bulbs instead of a “regular” halogen bulb.
- on my 2016 GLE350 it says Dynamic LED Headlights with Active Curve (no mention of Bi-Xenon)
This car has the LED lights as an option.
The standard lights on the GLE have the “regular” halogen bulbs and are not very bright as everyone has stated previously.
I hope this helps!
#47
Senior Member
the lights are not an issue fir us, we love the super bright dynamic LEDs. I think it’s a huge letdown for MB to produce and charge a $70K vehicle with halogen lights.
#48
Aftermarket LED
Has anyone tried swapping out the halogens with the aftermarket LED's that you can buy from Amazon etc. for the H7 bulbs? Those look promising. Planning to do it on my '17 GLE350 that I just bought.
#49
People seem to be pretty happy with the HID swap though. https://mbworld.org/forums/gle-class...success-5.html
#50
Senior Member
Yep, not falling for the “star” again. It’s like having a second mortgage but in a vehicle, that’s slightly below Hyundai in quality and slightly below Kia in reliability.