2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE has good reliability. There are 9 recalls and 51 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE. Severity signals include 6 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (10), Electrical System (6), Unknown Or Other (4).

GLE reliability snapshot

69/100

Latest model-year reliability score

2.5/5

RepairPal rating (average)

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Mercedes-Benz GLE before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Years to avoidThe weakest years and stronger alternatives Common problemsComplaint patterns across model years Recall historyNHTSA campaigns grouped by model year Resale valueObserved prices, mileage and depreciation

Most-reported 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

Power Train10
Electrical System6
Unknown Or Other4
Steering4
Service Brakes4
Fuel System, Gasoline3

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

Inspect for water intrusion in trunk and spare tire area
Test gear shifting from Park to Drive and Reverse
Check for sunroof leaks and water damage
Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual noise
Verify headlight illumination at night
Check for any unintended acceleration issues
Inspect tire condition and tread depth

What owners reported

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 6 crashes, 1 fire and 4 injuries to NHTSA for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints10

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently report issues with the transmission, particularly difficulties in shifting gears. Common symptoms include the inability to shift from Park to other gears, or from Drive to Reverse, often requiring the engine to be restarted to resolve the issue temporarily. These problems are noted to occur around 60,000 miles and have persisted over several years for some owners. A crash incident is reported where the vehicle lunged forward unexpectedly from a stop, resulting in a collision. Additionally, one complaint mentions the vehicle rolling when the engine is shut off while still in Drive, posing a safety risk. These issues highlight potential safety concerns and operational inconveniences that prospective buyers should consider.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints6

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report several issues related to the electrical system, with water intrusion being a significant factor. Complaints frequently mention water leaking through the sunroof, which damages electrical components like the fuel pump and batteries, with reported failures occurring around 49,000 to 81,000 miles. There are also reports of the information monitor freezing, particularly affecting the navigation function, which persists despite attempted software fixes. A notable safety concern involves unintended acceleration while parking, leading to a crash, though this issue is less commonly reported. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical system issues and the associated safety implications.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints5

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently report issues with the service brakes, including premature wear of brake pads and rotors. Complaints often mention brake pads separating or wearing down to metal-on-metal contact without prior warning, with some owners noting the absence of an indicator sensor on the left side. Symptoms include delayed brake response, loud squealing noises, and the need for brake replacement at relatively low mileages, ranging from 9,000 to 37,873 miles. One owner describes a temporary loss of braking ability for several seconds, which required evasive action to avoid a collision, indicating potential safety implications. Buyers considering this model may want to verify the condition and maintenance history of the braking system.

Owner complaints4

STEERING

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently report issues with the vehicle's steering, particularly unexpected swerving and loss of control. Complaints typically describe the car swerving in a zigzag motion without warning, sometimes at highway speeds, and one incident resulted in a low-speed collision due to electric power steering failure. In several cases, diagnostic tests at dealerships did not identify any faults, despite reported symptoms. These issues are noted at varying mileages, with one specific report mentioning a failure at approximately 8,000 miles. The safety implications include potential accidents due to sudden loss of steering control, which used car buyers should consider.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints4

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report issues primarily related to the unexpected disabling of safety and communication systems, as well as sudden vehicle malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention the permanent deactivation of emergency systems such as E-Call/SOS and crash notification without any provided alternatives, significantly reducing the vehicle's safety features. One owner describes a fire originating in the engine bay during routine driving, while another reports the vehicle's parking brake engaging automatically, stopping the car abruptly. These incidents highlight potential safety risks, including fire hazards and loss of vehicle control. These issues are reported without specific mileage patterns, suggesting they could occur at various points in the vehicle's lifespan.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints3

FUEL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently report issues related to water intrusion affecting the fuel system, specifically the fuel pump control unit. Symptoms often include the vehicle failing to start or stalling unexpectedly while driving, with some instances occurring at highway speeds. Complaints commonly mention water accumulation in the spare tire wheel well, leading to rust and mold, and affecting the vehicle's electrical components. These issues are noted at mileages of approximately 50,000 to 132,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the stalling incidents could pose safety risks, particularly at higher speeds. Buyers should be aware of these patterns and check for any unresolved recall repairs.

Owner complaints3

TIRES

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report issues with tire integrity, including blowouts and low tread. A common pattern is the unexpected tire blowout, as one owner describes a front passenger tire failure at 35 MPH, leading to a recommendation for all tires to be replaced due to poor condition at just 1,000 miles on the tires. Another owner notes critically low tread on three tires at approximately 20,000 miles, though these were not covered by a recall. Additionally, a separate complaint describes recurring tire pressure loss, culminating in a sidewall bubble after repeated inflations. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as the risk of blowouts and loss of tire integrity, which could affect vehicle control.

Owner complaints3

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently report issues with inadequate headlight illumination, particularly when driving at night. Complaints consistently describe the low beam headlights as insufficient, making it difficult to see on poorly lit roads and necessitating the use of high beams to ensure visibility. One owner reports that despite attempts to adjust the bulb locations, the illumination problem persists. These issues are noted at low mileage, around 20 miles in one case, and involve interactions with dealers and the manufacturer who state the headlights are functioning as designed. Safety implications are noted, as poor visibility could increase the risk of accidents or collisions with pedestrians.

Owner complaints3

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report issues related to vehicle speed control, with two complaints involving crashes. One common issue involves the vehicle's handling in snowy conditions when equipped with Pirelli PZero tires, leading to loss of control and fishtailing, as described by an owner who experienced a spinout on the highway. Another complaint details unintended acceleration in a parking lot, resulting in a collision with a building. Additionally, some owners mention difficulties with the cruise control system, which does not allow for easy cancellation of the set speed unless the vehicle is stopped and the engine is turned off. These issues appear across various driving conditions and could pose safety risks, particularly in adverse weather or when parking.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints2

AIR BAGS

Owners of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report issues with air bag deployment and warning system malfunctions. One owner describes a crash where none of the air bags deployed, resulting in an injury, highlighting a significant safety concern. Another owner reports an illuminated air bag warning light with a message indicating a "Front Left Malfunction," suggesting a potential failure of the driver's side air bag to deploy in a crash. This issue was noted at approximately 46,000 miles. These reports suggest potential air bag system failures that could pose safety risks, particularly in collision scenarios.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

2018 GLE recalls (9)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2018 GLE. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

STRUCTURENHTSA 23V854000Dec 15, 2023
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.
Consequence: A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 22V955000Dec 23, 2022
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012-2014 ML550, 2012-2015 ML350, AMG ML63, 2015 ML250, ML400, 2016 GLE450, GLE300, 2016-2018 GLE350, GLE550, 2016-2019 GLE400, 2017-2019 AMG GLE43, and 2016-2020 AMG GLE63 vehicles. Water might accumulate in the spare tire wheel well and damage the fuel pump control unit, which could cause an engine stall while driving.
Consequence: An engine stall while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a water drain plug, inspect for water intrusion, and replace the fuel pump control unit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2023010002 and 2023010003.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATIONNHTSA 22V365000May 20, 2022
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
STRUCTURENHTSA 21V197000Mar 19, 2021
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.
Consequence: The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
TIRESNHTSA 21V123000Feb 26, 2021
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 GLE350, GLE43 AMG, and GLE400 vehicles equipped with Continental tires. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall, resulting in sudden air loss or belt edge separation which could lead to tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 23, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030008.
COMMUNICATIONNHTSA 21V072000Feb 12, 2021
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2019 C300, E300, 2018-2020 CLA250, 2020 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG GT53, GLE450, 2018 AMG E63, AMG GTA, 2017-2020 GLA250, GLC300, 2019 GLC350, AMG GLC43, 2017-2018 GLE350, 2019 AMG GLC 43, GLC350, GLE400, 2017 GLS450, S550, C300 Cabrio, and 2018-2019 S560 vehicles. On June 18, 2021, an additional 9 vehicles were added, including certain 2021 GLA250, GLC300, 2018 S450, E400, and 2017 CLA250 vehicles. The communication module might have been inadvertently deactivated during a service visit, which could have disabled the Emergency Call (eCall) function.
Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting emergency services through the call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the communication module and activate it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Letters for the owners of the 9 additional vehicles were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030005.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATIONNHTSA 21V058000Feb 5, 2021
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 18V539000Aug 16, 2018
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 4Matic, GLE350, GLS450 4Matic, GLS550 4matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic, GLE63 AMG 4Matic, GLE63S AMG 4Matic, and GLS63 AMG 4Matic vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may not have been correctly coated, causing gas to become temporarily released into the rear brake hydraulic circuit, reducing braking performance.
Consequence: Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the rear axle brake system, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018080013.
VISIBILITYNHTSA 18V512000Aug 3, 2018
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 GLE350, GLE350 4Matic, and GLE43 AMG vehicles. During manufacturing, components of the panoramic sunroof may have been installed with a bonding primer that was incorrectly made, possibly affecting the long-term adhesion to the vehicle.
Consequence: If the front cover and/or rear fixed glass are not properly adhered, they may detach, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the panoramic sunroof, replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 7, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018080006.

Used-market value

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE resale snapshot

$37,973median asking price from 38 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLE value by year →Full Mercedes-Benz GLE market analysis at CarResaleValue →

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE on the road

349,084 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Cadillac XT5

Reliability: 81/100·Rivalry score: 95

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Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Reliability: 75/100·Rivalry score: 90

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BMW X5

Reliability: 56/100·Rivalry score: 90

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Acura ZDX

Reliability: 88/100·Rivalry score: 90

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Reliability verdict for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE scores slightly above the segment average, indicating moderate reliability. With nine recalls, the recall count is elevated, suggesting potential concerns that buyers should be aware of. Complaints are broadly distributed across various systems, with the power train being the most frequently mentioned area. This distribution implies that no single issue dominates, but multiple systems may require attention.

As the model is in the seventh year of its generation, some reliability improvements might be expected, yet the data suggests that risk remains moderate. In summary, while the GLE performs slightly better than its peers, the combination of an elevated recall count and diverse complaints indicates a balanced but cautious approach to its reliability. Overall, potential buyers should consider this moderate risk level when evaluating the 2018 GLE.

What you get in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE report

Available title brand history

Odometer readings & rollback detection

Accident & damage records

Auction sales with photos

Open safety recalls

Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE reliable?

How many recalls does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE have?

9 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE problems?

The most-reported 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE problem areas are: Power Train (10), Electrical System (6), Unknown Or Other (4).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.