Mercedes-Benz GLE / M-Class known issues by generation

Chassis:

W164 (ML 320 CDI/BlueTEC, ML 350, ML 550, ML 63 AMG)

Years:

2006–2011

Engine:

All

In 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA recalled about 350,000 2006–2012 ML-, GL- and R-Class vehicles because moisture could collect under a rubber sleeve on the brake booster and corrode its housing. Corrosion can reduce braking performance or, in severe cases, cause brake failure. Owners were told not to drive the vehicles until repaired. Dealers remove the sleeve, inspect the booster and replace it if corroded. A follow-up campaign (24V-298) added more vehicles. Any W164 without documented completion should not be driven until checked.

Sources: [2]

Chassis:

W164 (ML 350, ML 550, ML 63 AMG with Airmatic)

Years:

2006–2011

Engine:

Airmatic-equipped trucks

ML-Class trucks fitted with Airmatic, optional on most and common on V8 and AMG versions, rely on an electric compressor and four air springs. Air springs leak as they age, and the compressor then runs longer until it wears out or overheats. A failing system shows up as a corner sitting low, a harsher ride with more body roll, and a compressor heard running after the engine is shut off. Driving at speed while very low can damage suspension and bodywork. The repair targets the leaking spring first, then the compressor and relay if they have been overworked.

Sources: [8]

Chassis:

W164 (ML 320 CDI, ML 320 BlueTEC, ML 350 BlueTEC)

Years:

2007–2011

Engine:

OM642 3.0L V6 diesel

The ML's 3.0-liter V6 diesel has its oil cooler in the valley between the cylinder banks, sealed by gaskets that harden with heat and age. Leaking oil pools in the valley and drains toward the transmission bell housing, and the large belly pan can hide drips for a long time. Early orange seals were replaced by purple Viton seals around 2010, which reduced but did not end the problem. The repair is labor-heavy, roughly 8–10 hours, because the turbocharger, intake manifolds and EGR cooler come off, and shops often replace the cooler itself along with all single-use seals.

Sources: [7]

Chassis:

W166 (ML 350, ML 550, ML 63, GLE 350, GLE 400, GLE 43/63 AMG)

Years:

2012–2019

Engine:

Gasoline and diesel

About 348,000 2012–2020 ML- and GLE-Class vehicles were recalled because water could collect in the spare-tire well, where the fuel pump control unit is located. Water damage to that unit can make the engine stall while driving. Dealers install a drain plug, inspect for water intrusion and replace the control unit if it is damaged. Buyers should also check the area for signs of past water, such as corrosion or a musty smell, which can point to wider leak problems.

Sources: [3]

Chassis:

W166 (ML 250 BlueTEC, ML 350 BlueTEC, GLE 300d)

Years:

2012–2016

Engine:

OM642 3.0L V6 diesel; OM651 2.1L four diesel

The 2020 EPA/CARB settlement with Daimler and Mercedes-Benz USA covered about 250,000 2009–2016 US diesels, including the ML 250, ML 350 and GLE 300d, after regulators found undisclosed software that let emissions controls work less effectively in real driving than in tests. Affected vehicles receive a modification, a software update plus a new NOx sensor and, on some vehicles, an added catalyst, together with an extended warranty on the affected parts. Buyers of a used BlueTEC should confirm the modification was done, since emissions inspections in some states can depend on it.

Sources: [6]

Chassis:

V167 (GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 580, AMG GLE 53/63 S)

Years:

2020–2024

Engine:

M256 inline-6 with EQ Boost; M176 V8 with 48V; M264 four

GLE and GLS models with 48-volt mild-hybrid electrical systems have been recalled twice over the 48-volt ground connection under the front passenger seat. In 2022 (22V-231) dealers checked and tightened the ground cable bolt, and in 2024 (24V-207, about 116,000 vehicles) the inspection was widened to 2019–2024 trucks. A loose connection can overheat, raising fire risk. The fix is an inspection and tightening, so confirming that both campaigns were completed is the main check.

Sources: [5][1]

Chassis:

V167 (GLE 450)

Years:

2020–2023

Engine:

M256 3.0L inline-6 with EQ Boost

About 105,000 2020–2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 models were recalled because, under certain conditions, the 9-speed automatic might not fully downshift as the vehicle slows, which can stall the engine. Dealers update the transmission control software. As a software fix it leaves no visible trace, so completion should be confirmed through the VIN rather than by inspection. A stall while slowing removes power assist from steering and brakes, which is why the fix was filed as a safety recall.

Sources: [4]