What 122 owners told NHTSA about the 2020 Mercedes-benz GLE

Water pool in passenger side of vehicle all into carpet and glovebox area

NHTSA ODI 11746844

The engine in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 experienced catastrophic internal failure while driving. No warning lights or check engine indicators came on. Prior to failure, the vehicle began making a loud metallic knocking/rattling sound during acceleration, similar to “rocks shaking in a box.” Shortly afterward, the engine suddenly stalled while driving and would no longer run. The vehicle still had electrical power but the engine would not restart. The vehicle was towed to Mercedes-Benz of Las Vegas for inspection. The dealer diagnosed the engine as seized and documented metal debris in the oil filter and oil/metal debris underneath the vehicle, indicating catastrophic internal engine damage. The dealer stated that the engine replacement was required.The failed engine and vehicle are currently located at Mercedes-Benz of Las Vegas and are available for inspection upon request.The vehicle stalled unexpectedly while being driven on a public roadway, causing sudden loss of engine power and creating a potentially dangerous traffic situation. The violent shaking and knocking before failure also caused concern that the vehicle could lose control or stop operating completely in traffic, which it ultimately did. A sudden engine seizure and stall while driving creates a significant safety hazard because the driver may lose the ability to accelerate, maneuver safely, or clear traffic. This could increase the risk of collision, especially at highway speeds or in heavy traffic conditions. Mercedes-Benz of Las Vegas inspected the vehicle and confirmed catastrophic engine failure. The dealer documented that the engine was seized and that metal debris was found in the oil filter and underneath the vehicle. The dealer advised that the engine required replacement and provided an estimated repair cost exceeding $27,000. The dealer has not yet identified the root cause of the failure. No dashboard warning lights, oil pressure warnings, or check engine lights illuminated.

NHTSA ODI 11740729

We were traveling to our son’s college graduation, driving on a rural interstate and suddenly all of the vehicle’s warning lights lit on the dash and the car started losing, and then completely lost power. The car was no longer operational. We were stranded on the roadside of a remote but busy 2-lane interstate for 2 hours until a tow truck could arrive and take the car to the closest car repair shop which was 45 minutes away. This was an incredibly dangerous situation and we were fortunate to be alongside the shoulder, although we were still close to the tractor trailers and cars on the interstate. (Because we were stranded in such a remote place, we had no other options to get to our son’s graduation. We were unable to attend because of this.) The rural repair shop the car was initially towed to could not determine the problem. A few days later we found a 2nd tow truck that agreed to bring the vehicle several hundreds of miles back to our home city. This car is a 2020 model, and has around 55,000 miles. It has been meticulously maintained by a certified Mercedes mechanic. There were no issues with the car and no indication that there might be a problem. Our mechanic has thoroughly inspected the vehicle and said that the engine has completely seized and the only option is to replace it. We have no idea why this happened. If requested, the vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA ODI 11739738

My vehicle was in for a normal service to have the spark plugs replaced. However I was told that the engine wiring harness had become brittle (apparently a common and reoccurring problem with my vehicle) and would likely cause misfiring after changing spark plugs. This did indeed happen and if I didn’t elect to have the harness replaced, it would have put myself and my son in danger. It was a very costly repair (over $4000) for something that the vehicle manufacturer is at fault for.

NHTSA ODI 11732609

Cooling system failure due to cracked coolant line beneath intake manifold at 57,000 miles. Part # 264-200-42-01. Sudden coolant loss can cause engine overheating and potential engine stall while driving, posing safety risks. The original part was plastic and has been superseded by manufacturer to metal, suggesting design inadequacy. This was confirmed by Mercedes Benz dealership and also by MB USA. There have been multiple reports by other owners online, indicating this has been a common problem on a 2020 GLE 350. There was also an article in Jan 2022 stating that Mercedes had sent a letter to 800,000 owners informing them of a defect, but no there was no recall due to part shortage. https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/international/2022/01/05/648140.htm Yes, dealership has diagnosed it and confirmed this is the problem. There was a warning lamp/message stating low coolant level, which prompted me to take the vehicle to the dealership. Car has been serviced regularly at the Mercedes dealership. Strong risk of overheating.

NHTSA ODI 11717671

Engine compartment heat causes wiring harness insulation to melt and Electrical shorting while driving. Engine has lack of power and acceleration due to heat damage to the engine harness. Check Engine light came on. This is a potential fire risk and should be address by MBUSA. This is a know issue with this model. Car has only 36,000 miles

NHTSA ODI 11716779

Cylinder head is defective and needs replacing. It is at the dealer for service at the tune of $7700. The car will not accelerate and sounds like it is in the wrong gear. Upon searching the Internet it seems like there are tons as in 1000’s of 2020, 2021 and 2023 Mercedes GLE 350s all having the same problem. There should be a recall as most cars are seeing this problem at 20,000 to 30,000 miles and at times when it is replaced, it turns around and happens again. Starting misfiring in October and continued to get worse.

NHTSA ODI 11701359

Check engine light came on September 2025 and the initial diagnosis was for mixture formation (cylinder 3) is irregular. Issue with the GLE 350 years 2020 to 2022 (from what I saw online) is the engine has an issue with a faulty cylinder head. This issue while driving causes the car to shake. This faulty cylinder has been confirmed by the Mercedes Benz service shop.

NHTSA ODI 11697756

Engine Cylinder Head Failure on CPO Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Vehicle Information: •Make: Mercedes-Benz •Model: GLE 350 •Year: 2020 •Mileage at time of issue: 90,000 Summary of Complaint: The vehicle experienced a premature cylinder head failure, resulting in significant engine damage and repair costs. There were no prior warning lights or diagnostic codes indicating a problem before the failure occurred. The malfunction caused sudden performance issues, including rough idling, misfiring, and loss of power. Details of the Incident: While operating the vehicle under normal driving conditions, the engine began to run roughly and lost power unexpectedly. Diagnostic testing revealed that the cylinder head had failed, which appears to be a mechanical or manufacturing defect rather than wear and tear. The repair estimate from the dealership was approximately $8,900, which is disproportionately high for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Safety Concerns: This type of failure could lead to sudden engine shutdown or loss of power while driving, posing a safety risk to occupants and other drivers on the road. Manufacturer Case Reference: This issue has also been reported to Mercedes-Benz under case number 18281587. Additional Information: After research, it appears that other Mercedes-Benz GLE owners have reported similar issues related to engine component failures, suggesting this may be a broader quality or manufacturing issue that warrants investigation. Requested Action: Requesting that NHTSA investigate potential defects in the engine or cylinder head assembly for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 and determine whether a recall or service bulletin is appropriate.

NHTSA ODI 11696713

I am writing to express serious concern regarding a potentially dangerous mechanical issue with my Mercedes GLE 350. The vehicle has experienced a complete cylinder head failure, requiring an estimated $7,000 repair. Both an independent service center and an authorized Mercedes service center have confirmed this diagnosis. During the inspection process, Mercedes conducted two diagnostic tests—one costing $250 and a second costing $700—before determining that the cylinder head must be replaced. I was informed by the Mercedes service advisor that the company is aware this issue has affected other GLE 350 vehicles; however, no recall has been issued to date. This failure presents a significant safety risk. The vehicle suddenly loses power without warning, and acceleration becomes severely limited, often not exceeding 20–40 mph even when pressing the accelerator fully. The check engine light illuminates at the time of power loss, leaving the driver unable to maintain safe highway speeds or merge with traffic—posing a serious hazard to both the driver and others on the road. Given that this appears to be a known issue, I am requesting immediate review and investigation by Mercedes-Benz. A recall or formal service campaign should be considered to address this potentially dangerous defect and to ensure the safety of all affected drivers. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

NHTSA ODI 11694542

My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 experienced a complete engine seizure at approximately 60,000 miles without any warning signs. The vehicle shut down and would not restart. The engine is completely inoperable. I am aware of recalls involving engine stalling and fuel system issues in this model, and I believe this may be related to a broader defect. Mercedes-Benz has not offered support as of this writing.

NHTSA ODI 11686335

The vehicle recently experienced a cylinder head failure, confirmed by a diagnotic code P0302 (Misfire in cylinder 2), resulting in rough idling, reduced power, and potential safety risks during opreration. This issue appears to be a known defect in the M264 engine, as evidenced by similar complains from owners of GLE 350, GLC 300, and other models on forums like [XXX] and [XXX] . The failure occurred just beyond the standard 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, and Mercedes-Benz USA denied my request for a goodwill repair despite acknowledging similar issues in related models under extended warranties. Repair costs are estimated $8,000 to $13,500. I believe this defect warrants investigation due to its prevalence and potential to cause sudden power loss, which could lead to hazardous driving conditions. I urge NHTSA to investigate the M264 engine in the 2020 GLE 350 for a possible recall to protect owners and ensure safety. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11679991

My car shook while idling the last two weeks of June 2025. It felt like it was going to shut off at light/stop sign which it did on two occasions. On July 2, 2025, it stalled abruptly during a drive after which I took it to Mercedes for service. I never received a warning signal or fault message even after it stalled. Mercedes service indicated the engine cylinder head valves were burnt and not sealing properly - estimated cost of repair $10,023.00. I am the original owner of the car, had routine maintenance and only had it performed at Mercedes. My car stopped without warning- but luckily on a local road. Others who are driving with this defective engine may not be so lucky. It appears this is a known issue to Mercedes USA but they have not done anything to fix it. The engine is M264. Even if valves are replaced, this problem may continue to occur as the Mercedes serviceman does not know what caused the burnt cylinders - just that they needed to be replaced and that it was not wear and tear. Not sure if this is related, but there was a 2022 recall on this engine (my car was not part of batch that was recalled) regarding turbo charger oil feed and return lines. The issues included engine vibration at idle and loss of power.

NHTSA ODI 11674209

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while driving at low speeds, the vehicle entered LIMP Mode but continued to operate with reduced motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the failure persisted. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine control unit failure causing the engine to run lean, resulting in misfires in cylinders #1 and #2 and damage to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine had failed a pressure test and needed to be replaced. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who confirmed the diagnosis and determined that the failure could be resolved with a top end engine replacement of the cylinder head, valves, valve springs, rocker arms, camshaft, spark plugs, and valve cover. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 71,000.

NHTSA ODI 11672802

I purchased my 2020 Mercedes GLE 350 new with only 12 miles on it. I also purchased an extended warranty which gave me 100,012 miles. On a Friday evening while being driven, the engine light came on. I took the truck immediately to the dealership on Monday morning. Prior to that the engine would roar loud upon starting on some occasions then calm down. When I mentioned it to the service department on previous service visits they told me it was fine and they notice that, that particular model does that when it gets hot outside. The vehicle also quit on me in the middle of the road before starting back up in about 3 minutes but on a separate visit. ALL my maintenance and service have ALL been done at the Mercedes service department so I'm confused how this happened. So, the dealership needed an extra day to diagnose so after 2 days I was hit with the news that is was a cylinder head...$9,963. I had 108,152 (out of extended warranty) miles on my truck. I notice this is a common issue with this particular year and model GLE350. I also see that Mercedes has a recall on other models just not this one. A recall is needed immediately. I pray this complaint will help others that will experience this same issue in the near future because there's no help for me now.

NHTSA ODI 11670108

Hi! I just received word that my 2020 GLE350 will need a replacement cylinder head. I went to the dealership due to having a check engine light on (light came on this morning and I promptly brought to the dealership). It is an $8,000 repair. Upon doing a quick websearch for replacement cylinder heads for 2020 GLE350s, I am finding a lot of people in web groups reporting that they are having the exact same issues for the same model (2020-2022) right after the 50,000k mileage mark (out of warranty). I have always done my maintenance directly with the dealership. Links to the chat forums with similar issues - can pull up more if needed. [XXX] Let me know if you need additional information - thank you! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11666722

Bought a 2020 Gle 350 used with 55000 miles on it. Within 3 weeks the check engine light comes on and the car goes into limp mode. Cannot drive it. Took it to Mercedes of Wilmington. They said it was a misfire on 4. They replaced all spark plugs and the coil to cylinder 4. Another month later the same thing happens. Took it back to Mercedes. Stated the car needs a new cylinder head at the cost of 12000$. This seems to be a common problem on these vehicles. A recall is needed immediately

NHTSA ODI 11661806

At 48,000 miles the cylinder head needed replaced. This was done under warranty. At 73,000 miles the engine started making a horrible noise and power was lost and acceleration very choppy. Had it towed to the dealer. Dealer diagnosed the issue as a Rod bearing failure and requires the engine to be fully replaced. This occured while driving, fortunately I had just gotten off the highway, otherwise the vehicle would have lost acceleration and speed and would have created and unsafe situation. The engine light never came on, neither before or after the noise and loss of acceleration.

NHTSA ODI 11660868

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power when the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, on one occasion, the vehicle failed to start and was towed to the dealer, who was unable to identify the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The cause of the failure was not yet been determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.

NHTSA ODI 11659016

Turbo oil separator blocked, causing internal pressure pushing oil out of the rear main crankshaft seal. Since the oil level is monitored electrically (no dipstick), the engine can run out of oil, resulting in catastrophic failure while driving, causing a dangerous condition or accident

NHTSA ODI 11655926

Coolant pipe under intake manifold made of plastic leaking, could have caused engine overheating and failure in traffic conditions. New style pipe supplied by manufacturer is now made of steel, dealer had in stock indicating a repetitive problem.

NHTSA ODI 11654882

Cylinder misfire at low mileage with very costly repair.. Vehicle needs cylinder head.

NHTSA ODI 11653696

My vehicle has developed problems related to the cylinder head, leading to persistent misfires, rough idling, and an illuminated check engine light. Upon diagnosis at an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center, it was determined that the cylinder head requires replacement

NHTSA ODI 11643185

As many other GLE 350 owners reported on various forums, same thing happened to me. My car suddenly started shaking and some cylinders misfiring. My car is just 2020 and barely got 60,000 miles on it. Initial report shows that two cylinders misfires with no reason. It's failing the emission and car will not pass emission test anymore. Mercedes says it's out of warranty and asking 15k to replace cylinder head.

NHTSA ODI 11636187

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that on several occasions while the ON/OFF system was activated, while making left and right turns and then stopped the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was shifted into park(P) and restarted after each failure. The vehicle was idling and the engine sputtered and ran rough. Additionally, the contact stated that while idling, the vehicle shuddered and ran rough on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the exhaust valve seats needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11624078