Opinions needed. Jumping ship from a 2013 ML BT W166 to a 2018 GLE400 W166?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Opinions needed. Jumping ship from a 2013 ML BT W166 to a 2018 GLE400 W166?
Hey everyone,
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Last edited by Potrice; Feb 7, 2024 at 11:15 AM.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,694
Likes: 4,584
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
18/19 GLE400 is the best of them all. Last platform years which means problems have been addressed by MB. Reliable and powerful M276 3.0TTV6.
Spark plugs are a bear on M276 but doable. Other maintenance is typical MB nothing to be scared of.
ML and GLE are nearly 100% the same except trim/cosmetic items. And COMAND.
Spark plugs are a bear on M276 but doable. Other maintenance is typical MB nothing to be scared of.
ML and GLE are nearly 100% the same except trim/cosmetic items. And COMAND.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Another random question. I usually get all my parts from Rockauto or FCPEuro... but it seems both sites don't offer parts for the 2018 GLE400 model! They only offer parts for the GLE350 with the 3.5L engine. Where do you guys get your car parts (except the dealer of course)?
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,694
Likes: 4,584
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
Another random question. I usually get all my parts from Rockauto or FCPEuro... but it seems both sites don't offer parts for the 2018 GLE400 model! They only offer parts for the GLE350 with the 3.5L engine. Where do you guys get your car parts (except the dealer of course)?
Oil filter is probably in stock at Autozone or similar. Maybe even engine air filter.
Send FCP Euro a customer service message to ask.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
MBWorld Fanatic!
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From: US
2008 E350, 2012 ML350, 2014 E350, 2015 ML350
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Just for fun, I checked spark plugs for a 2019 GLE400 and they sell them in a package of 8 even thought the suv has a 3.0 TT V6.
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...3-kit-iskm278b
???????????????????????????????????????
I guess their website is messed up...
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Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,694
Likes: 4,584
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
Thanks! You're 100% correct.
Just for fun, I checked spark plugs for a 2019 GLE400 and they sell them in a package of 8 even thought the suv has a 3.0 TT V6.
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...3-kit-iskm278b
???????????????????????????????????????
I guess their website is messed up...
Just for fun, I checked spark plugs for a 2019 GLE400 and they sell them in a package of 8 even thought the suv has a 3.0 TT V6.
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...3-kit-iskm278b
???????????????????????????????????????
I guess their website is messed up...
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E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
The plugs really are not that big of a job. The only issue I faced is getting the plug wires out of the heads and off the plugs. I had to use all my strength to pull them out. Just make sure to liberally coat the inside and outside of the plug boot with dielectric grease so it doesn't stick for the next go round. Also, make sure to torque the plugs to MB specs.
You will love the engine. Yes, way more reliable than the OM642 bluetec but, then again, what engine isn't. Maybe the 80's diesel Oldsmobile LF9 5.7L diesel is worse? I kid you OM642 lovers - all the tens and tens of you.
You will love the engine. Yes, way more reliable than the OM642 bluetec but, then again, what engine isn't. Maybe the 80's diesel Oldsmobile LF9 5.7L diesel is worse? I kid you OM642 lovers - all the tens and tens of you.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Hey everyone,
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
- the 3.0 T is a robust engine
- City wise you will almost have the same consumption. Diesel will shine in the highway.
- 2018/2019 almost perfect. Only 1 very minor recall in the vehicle.
- oil change do once a year or 10k which ever comes first. if you have done the fluids yourself in the bluetech then it would be easy for you for the 400.
- same location.
The diesel will run another 300k if you fix the leak. If the inside and outside condition of the vehicle is pristine there is no point of moving into the 400. You will miss the torque!!! if you want to upgrade the infotainment slap a 12.3 android screen on that and you will be in 2024 tech. Only thing will be missing is the 360 camera.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
- Winter tires will fit no problem as it is the same chassis.
- the 3.0 T is a robust engine
- City wise you will almost have the same consumption. Diesel will shine in the highway.
- 2018/2019 almost perfect. Only 1 very minor recall in the vehicle.
- oil change do once a year or 10k which ever comes first. if you have done the fluids yourself in the bluetech then it would be easy for you for the 400.
- same location.
The diesel will run another 300k if you fix the leak. If the inside and outside condition of the vehicle is pristine there is no point of moving into the 400. You will miss the torque!!! if you want to upgrade the infotainment slap a 12.3 android screen on that and you will be in 2024 tech. Only thing will be missing is the 360 camera.
- the 3.0 T is a robust engine
- City wise you will almost have the same consumption. Diesel will shine in the highway.
- 2018/2019 almost perfect. Only 1 very minor recall in the vehicle.
- oil change do once a year or 10k which ever comes first. if you have done the fluids yourself in the bluetech then it would be easy for you for the 400.
- same location.
The diesel will run another 300k if you fix the leak. If the inside and outside condition of the vehicle is pristine there is no point of moving into the 400. You will miss the torque!!! if you want to upgrade the infotainment slap a 12.3 android screen on that and you will be in 2024 tech. Only thing will be missing is the 360 camera.
I love the OM642, but it's the whole SCR/Adblue system that scares me. After my AEM warranty is over, I'd hate to be slapped by a defective Adblue heater or other component. I guess there's always the option to delete everything. Other than the minor oil cooler seals leak, my OM642 runs great. It doesn't burn any oil and I never have to do any top offs between the 10k km OCI.
Regarding fuel economy, I mostly do countryside driving and some highway. Not a lot of city driving. I drive like 20 000km/25 000km per year so yes, I'll take a hit with fuel mileage. I think the GLE400 is rated at like 24 mpg highway while my ML350 BT is rated at 28 mpg highway. On paper it doesn't look that bad, but I'm pretty sure my ML gets better mileage than 28 mpg... I'll do some math later on tonight.
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From: In the Shadow of the Tetons
2013 ML350 Bluetec
If you please, tell us about the chip you refitted behind the climate controls that give you apple carplay and android auto... I've been interested in upgrading my NTG4.5 to do that for some time now and haven't pulled the trigger yet.
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
There are a lot of modules for this. The cost of doing that vs the full android screen is very little nowadays. If you only care about google maps and content with the 8.4" screen then just do the module.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
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From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Just found this amazing item on AliExpress. Check it out!
C$242.38 40%OFF | Wireless CarPlay for Mercedes Benz ML GL W166 X166 2012-2015, with Android Auto Mirror Link AirPlay Car Play Functions
https://a.aliexpress.com/_mO0eHJy
I was debating between going with a new android unit for a bigger screen but I finally went with the chip to retain the original look. My guess is that keeping everything as original as possible in the SUV would make it easier to sell or trade it in and get better value. That's my opinion of course and some might disagree.
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Joined: Jan 2016
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From: In the Shadow of the Tetons
2013 ML350 Bluetec
Thanks for the reply. Does everything work as it should? Steering wheel buttons, backup camera, etc.? Can you flip a bit and go back to the OEM screen without issue?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Everything is still original and works flawlessly. To access Carplay (CP) or Android Auto (AA), you simply go on the Aux audio and push hold the CLEAR button to switch back and forth between original COMMAND and CP/AA. In 3-4 years, I think maybe about 5 times that during phone calls, the other person would complain and they hear some echo in the background. Again, this happened less than a handful of times. I would 110% recommend the unit. The unit uses the original mic from the suv.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
This is the exact unit that I use (from RoadTop). I installed it about 3-4 years ago and it's been great ever since. Cost is about 250$ CAD for the unit and it's very easy to install (took about an hour while taking my time and enjoying a beer).
Just found this amazing item on AliExpress. Check it out!
C$242.38 40%OFF | Wireless CarPlay for Mercedes Benz ML GL W166 X166 2012-2015, with Android Auto Mirror Link AirPlay Car Play Functions
https://a.aliexpress.com/_mO0eHJy
I was debating between going with a new android unit for a bigger screen but I finally went with the chip to retain the original look. My guess is that keeping everything as original as possible in the SUV would make it easier to sell or trade it in and get better value. That's my opinion of course and some might disagree.
Just found this amazing item on AliExpress. Check it out!
C$242.38 40%OFF | Wireless CarPlay for Mercedes Benz ML GL W166 X166 2012-2015, with Android Auto Mirror Link AirPlay Car Play Functions
https://a.aliexpress.com/_mO0eHJy
I was debating between going with a new android unit for a bigger screen but I finally went with the chip to retain the original look. My guess is that keeping everything as original as possible in the SUV would make it easier to sell or trade it in and get better value. That's my opinion of course and some might disagree.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Quick update.
I visited the 2018 GLE400 that I was interested in but I decided not to persue because it didn't come with the push start button option! I thought this was standard on the GLE... oh well. The Carfax report also said it was involved in a rear collision for 13k worth of damage... yeah no thanks.
As you can see, I'm quite picky so I'll take my time and shop around. I'd like one fully equipped with the climate control seats, heated/cooled cup holders and my gf wants one with massage seats...
I'm still on the fence about airmatic vs steel springs... My ML has the steel springs and I really enjoy the ride. My worry is that buying a used GLE400 with 80 000km+ (60k miles+), the airmatic suspension will be near the end of their life and will cost a lot to replace. I can do the work myself and save on labor, but the parts are still quite expensive.
Quick question. Are the stock headlights HID Xenon or LED? Hopefully, they're not halogen... I'm asking because my ML has the lighting option with the Bi-Xenon HID headlights and I absolutely love them. Was there such an option for the GLE?
I visited the 2018 GLE400 that I was interested in but I decided not to persue because it didn't come with the push start button option! I thought this was standard on the GLE... oh well. The Carfax report also said it was involved in a rear collision for 13k worth of damage... yeah no thanks.
As you can see, I'm quite picky so I'll take my time and shop around. I'd like one fully equipped with the climate control seats, heated/cooled cup holders and my gf wants one with massage seats...
I'm still on the fence about airmatic vs steel springs... My ML has the steel springs and I really enjoy the ride. My worry is that buying a used GLE400 with 80 000km+ (60k miles+), the airmatic suspension will be near the end of their life and will cost a lot to replace. I can do the work myself and save on labor, but the parts are still quite expensive.Quick question. Are the stock headlights HID Xenon or LED? Hopefully, they're not halogen... I'm asking because my ML has the lighting option with the Bi-Xenon HID headlights and I absolutely love them. Was there such an option for the GLE?
Last edited by Potrice; Feb 16, 2024 at 09:53 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2021
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From: US
2008 E350, 2012 ML350, 2014 E350, 2015 ML350
Quick update.
I visited the 2018 GLE400 that I was interested in but I decided not to persue because it didn't come with the push start button option! I thought this was standard on the GLE... oh well. The Carfax report also said it was involved in a rear collision for 13k worth of damage... yeah no thanks.
As you can see, I'm quite picky so I'll take my time and shop around. I'd like one fully equipped with the climate control seats, heated/cooled cup holders and my gf wants one with massage seats... I'm still on the fence about airmatic vs steel springs... My ML has the steel springs and I really enjoy the ride. My worry is that buying a used GLE400 with 80 000km+ (60k miles+), the airmatic suspension will be near the end of their life and will cost a lot to replace. I can do the work myself and save on labor, but the parts are still quite expensive.
I visited the 2018 GLE400 that I was interested in but I decided not to persue because it didn't come with the push start button option! I thought this was standard on the GLE... oh well. The Carfax report also said it was involved in a rear collision for 13k worth of damage... yeah no thanks.
As you can see, I'm quite picky so I'll take my time and shop around. I'd like one fully equipped with the climate control seats, heated/cooled cup holders and my gf wants one with massage seats...
I'm still on the fence about airmatic vs steel springs... My ML has the steel springs and I really enjoy the ride. My worry is that buying a used GLE400 with 80 000km+ (60k miles+), the airmatic suspension will be near the end of their life and will cost a lot to replace. I can do the work myself and save on labor, but the parts are still quite expensive.On the accident repair for 13K worth of damage, sometime you need to find the report (if available) for the photos or description. 13K repair for an accident of an MB means it was a scratch, not a real collision
. Imagine a rear bumper with all the sensors involved in the collision, just in parts w/o painting and nothing deformed and you are 50% in that budget.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 276
Likes: 49
From: Ottawa, Ontario
2013 ML350 Bluetec, 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible (sold)
Keep looking, but a fully optioned car with climate-controlled seats, push start, and massage seat would likely be an airmatic as well, unless was custom ordered (unicorn).
On the accident repair for 13K worth of damage, sometime you need to find the report (if available) for the photos or description. 13K repair for an accident of an MB means it was a scratch, not a real collision. Imagine a rear bumper with all the sensors involved in the collision, just in parts w/o painting and nothing deformed and you are 50% in that budget.
On the accident repair for 13K worth of damage, sometime you need to find the report (if available) for the photos or description. 13K repair for an accident of an MB means it was a scratch, not a real collision
. Imagine a rear bumper with all the sensors involved in the collision, just in parts w/o painting and nothing deformed and you are 50% in that budget.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2021
Posts: 23
Likes: 5
From: Toronto
GLE 400
Amazing GLE 400 2018
Hey everyone,
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
My 2013 ML350 BT is now sitting at 300 000km and is running very well except for a very minor oil leak from the oil cooler seals. It still has 2 years of warranty left or 40 000km from the AEM (Bluetec recall). I just spotted a 2018 GLE400 with 80k km and was debating between trading in my ML or just selling it and jump ship. The GLE is slightly more equipped than my ML (heated/cooled cupholders, 360 camera, etc.). What do you guys think?
A couple of questions:
- Will my set of winter tires on mags fit on the GLE? They're 19'' but I think the GLE comes with 20''. I'm pretty sure they fit on both models but maybe I'm wrong.
- I suppose the 3.0L TT gas engine is much more reliable than the OM642 right?
- I know my fuel mileage will take a hit, but will the difference be massive?. Diesel is about the same price as premium gas here in eastern Ontario.
- Any known problems with the 2018/2019 GLE400 model years?
- I do all of the maintenance myself (transmission oil every 100k km, axle fluids and transfer case fluid every 100k km, etc.). Is the GLE400 W166 easier to work on? I think the manual mentions 20k km OCI but I find that very long. Would 10k-15k be more appropriate? What about the spark plugs?
- Are the blind spot sensors located in the rear bumpers like the ML W166? On my ML they were problematic after a while from all the dirt/salt on the roads. I put dielectric grease on mine before every winter as a preventive maintenance... I plan on doing this on the GLE.
Any opinion/recommandations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
The only issue repaired under warranty was a switch control in the column which control lane keeping etc. it was malfunctioning and would cause the lane keeping assist etc to malfunction. The invoice showed the part cost as 750C$ lol.
My GLE has airmatic, amg package exterior/interior with night package, aluminum running board (they look good but useless), driver assistance package, advanced light package, heated seats, heated steering etc - it is fully loaded.
I have owned a Lexus RX350 bought it new and drove it for 5 years. After 5 years it never felt the same. In contrast the GLE is a class on its own when it comes to the drivability - the geometry on the handling is outstanding. It has crosswind technology- at high speed the car lowers itself dynamically. The interior fit and finish is impeccable. The advanced light package with its ability to change angle in order to light up the curve is nothing short of brilliant piece of engineering work.
Good Luck in your venture.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 2,527
Likes: 2,044
From: US
2008 E350, 2012 ML350, 2014 E350, 2015 ML350
I am out here in GTA - In 2022 I had ordered a new GLE 450 fully loaded but the wait was too long due to covid. I ended up buying 2018 GLE 400 from Mercedes Sudbury - had to drive a long way. It had 29,300 KM very low mileage which I think could be attributed to covid. It was under warranty plus 2 year star warranty. It came with an extra set of winter tires which I plan to get rid off this year.
The only issue repaired under warranty was a switch control in the column which control lane keeping etc. it was malfunctioning and would cause the lane keeping assist etc to malfunction. The invoice showed the part cost as 750C$ lol.
My GLE has airmatic, amg package exterior/interior with night package, aluminum running board (they look good but useless), driver assistance package, advanced light package, heated seats, heated steering etc - it is fully loaded.
I have owned a Lexus RX350 bought it new and drove it for 5 years. After 5 years it never felt the same. In contrast the GLE is a class on its own when it comes to the drivability - the geometry on the handling is outstanding. It has crosswind technology- at high speed the car lowers itself dynamically. The interior fit and finish is impeccable. The advanced light package with its ability to change angle in order to light up the curve is nothing short of brilliant piece of engineering work.
Good Luck in your venture.
The only issue repaired under warranty was a switch control in the column which control lane keeping etc. it was malfunctioning and would cause the lane keeping assist etc to malfunction. The invoice showed the part cost as 750C$ lol.
My GLE has airmatic, amg package exterior/interior with night package, aluminum running board (they look good but useless), driver assistance package, advanced light package, heated seats, heated steering etc - it is fully loaded.
I have owned a Lexus RX350 bought it new and drove it for 5 years. After 5 years it never felt the same. In contrast the GLE is a class on its own when it comes to the drivability - the geometry on the handling is outstanding. It has crosswind technology- at high speed the car lowers itself dynamically. The interior fit and finish is impeccable. The advanced light package with its ability to change angle in order to light up the curve is nothing short of brilliant piece of engineering work.
Good Luck in your venture.
Good for you.. You likely dodged a bullet. The jury is still out there concerning the I6-Hybrid engine/platform. You have a proven V6 TT with the iron-casted cylinder that has a few issues, but great engine overall. Watch out for water leaks into the cabin: pano/sun roof, and for any MB-SUV -> rear trunk lid/taillights. Do the occasional check for humidity/wetness in the back and side pods.Enjoy it.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2021
Posts: 23
Likes: 5
From: Toronto
GLE 400
Good for you.. You likely dodged a bullet. The jury is still out there concerning the I6-Hybrid engine/platform. You have a proven V6 TT with the iron-casted cylinder that has a few issues, but great engine overall. Watch out for water leaks into the cabin: pano/sun roof, and for any MB-SUV -> rear trunk lid/taillights. Do the occasional check for humidity/wetness in the back and side pods.Enjoy it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 2,527
Likes: 2,044
From: US
2008 E350, 2012 ML350, 2014 E350, 2015 ML350
1 - reduce oil change interval to @5K Miles. For the tranny, shorten it as well to your liking. Just do not extend services as long as MB says (if you are out of warranty they will not come a fix it for you)
2 - increase oil weight to 5W40, and if weather permits even 10W40 (not during Ontario winter)
3 - oil solenoid pump modification. Discussed to death in the W212 AMG MB World forum
4 - Always warm the engine to normal temperature if you plan to step on it. Never floor it until it is hot.
5 - similarly, do not shut it off immediately after a hard/spirited run.
6 - if you tune it, be careful and do not overdo it
On general maintenance, @chassis has a compilation in his signature that applies to the W166 overall. Keep in mind the "V6 TT engine" was used on several platforms, so you can always check on other platforms' discussions.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2021
Posts: 23
Likes: 5
From: Toronto
GLE 400
Personally, and some forum members as well:
1 - reduce oil change interval to @5K Miles. For the tranny, shorten it as well to your liking. Just do not extend services as long as MB says (if you are out of warranty they will not come a fix it for you)
2 - increase oil weight to 5W40, and if weather permits even 10W40 (not during Ontario winter)
3 - oil solenoid pump modification. Discussed to death in the W212 AMG MB World forum
4 - Always warm the engine to normal temperature if you plan to step on it. Never floor it until it is hot.
5 - similarly, do not shut it off immediately after a hard/spirited run.
6 - if you tune it, be careful and do not overdo it
On general maintenance, @chassis has a compilation in his signature that applies to the W166 overall. Keep in mind the "V6 TT engine" was used on several platforms, so you can always check on other platforms' discussions.
1 - reduce oil change interval to @5K Miles. For the tranny, shorten it as well to your liking. Just do not extend services as long as MB says (if you are out of warranty they will not come a fix it for you)
2 - increase oil weight to 5W40, and if weather permits even 10W40 (not during Ontario winter)
3 - oil solenoid pump modification. Discussed to death in the W212 AMG MB World forum
4 - Always warm the engine to normal temperature if you plan to step on it. Never floor it until it is hot.
5 - similarly, do not shut it off immediately after a hard/spirited run.
6 - if you tune it, be careful and do not overdo it
On general maintenance, @chassis has a compilation in his signature that applies to the W166 overall. Keep in mind the "V6 TT engine" was used on several platforms, so you can always check on other platforms' discussions.
