What engines were available in the W166 ML/GLE-Class?

The W166 ML/GLE-Class was available with the following engines: M276 3.0L V6 Biturbo (ML/GLE400), M276 3.5L V6 (ML350), M278 4.7L V8 Biturbo (ML/GLE550), M157 5.5L V8 Biturbo (ML/GLE63 AMG), OM642 3.0L CDI V6 (ML/GLE350d), OM651 2.1L CDI I4 + Electric (GLE500e PHEV).

suv · 2012–2019

W166

Q: What are the most common problems with the Mercedes-Benz W166 ML/GLE-Class?

Transfer case seal leaks and actuator motor noise (Severity: medium). Airmatic compressor relay failure causing suspension drop (Severity: high). M278 V8 camshaft adjuster solenoid and timing chain cover oil leaks (Severity: medium). Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system heater and injector failures (Severity: medium). Front lower control arm ball joint premature wear (Severity: medium)

Q: How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz W166 ML/GLE-Class?

The W166 ML/GLE-Class (2012–2019) has a reliability rating of "good" based on Beach Benz's 35 years of service experience. The W166 is one of the most reliable Mercedes SUVs we work on. The V6 biturbo is an excellent all-around engine. We recommend staying on top of the Airmatic system maintenance -- the compressor relay is an easy preventive fix that avoids stranding.

Q: What is the maintenance schedule for the W166 ML/GLE-Class?

Engine oil & filter (full synthetic): Every 10,000 miles. Transmission fluid service (7G/9G): Every 40,000 miles. Transfer case and differential fluid: Every 40,000 miles. Brake fluid flush: Every 2 years / 20,000 miles

ML/GLE-Class

Reliability: Good

6 engines5 known issues

Overview

The W166 generation began life as the ML-Class before being renamed GLE-Class in the 2016 facelift as part of Mercedes' naming rationalization. It offered a wide range of powertrains including diesel, V6 biturbo, V8 biturbo, and a plug-in hybrid. The GLE63 AMG S with 577 hp was one of the fastest SUVs available. The Coupe variant (C292) competed directly with the BMW X6.

Engines & Transmissions

Engine Options

M276 3.0L V6 Biturbo (ML/GLE400)
M276 3.5L V6 (ML350)
M278 4.7L V8 Biturbo (ML/GLE550)
M157 5.5L V8 Biturbo (ML/GLE63 AMG)
OM642 3.0L CDI V6 (ML/GLE350d)
OM651 2.1L CDI I4 + Electric (GLE500e PHEV)

Transmissions

722.9 7G-Tronic Plus
9G-Tronic (725.0, GLE facelift)

Common Problems

Known issues reported across the W166 production run, ordered by severity. These are based on our direct experience servicing these vehicles over 35 years.

Transfer case seal leaks and actuator motor noise

Medium severity

→

Airmatic compressor relay failure causing suspension drop

High severity

→

M278 V8 camshaft adjuster solenoid and timing chain cover oil leaks

Medium severity

→

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system heater and injector failures

Medium severity

→

Front lower control arm ball joint premature wear

Medium severity

→

Maintenance Highlights

Key service intervals for the W166. These are based on our recommended schedule for Southern California driving conditions, which may differ from factory-specified intervals.

Engine oil & filter (full synthetic)

Every 10,000 miles

Transmission fluid service (7G/9G)

Every 40,000 miles

Transfer case and differential fluid

Every 40,000 miles

Brake fluid flush

Every 2 years / 20,000 miles

Reliability Assessment

Good Reliability

Based on 35 years of service data at Beach Benz

PoorFairGoodExcellent

Beach Benz Experience

From Our Technicians

“The W166 is one of the most reliable Mercedes SUVs we work on. The V6 biturbo is an excellent all-around engine. We recommend staying on top of the Airmatic system maintenance -- the compressor relay is an easy preventive fix that avoids stranding.”

— Beach Benz service team · 35+ years of Mercedes-Benz specialization

W166 Specialist

Your W166 deserves a specialist.

Factory diagnostics. OEM parts. 35 years of Mercedes-Benz expertise. Whether it's a routine service or a complex repair, Beach Benz has your W166 ML/GLE-Class covered.

Call (714) 842-9816 Call (714) 842-9816