2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class reliability
NHTSA's file on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class holds 107 complaints after 11 years, a rate of 10 per year. That is more complaints per year than most GLE-Class years here — over the median of the other years, which is 7. NHTSA has no recalls on file for this model year.
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The complaints owners file most often name Fuel and propulsion system (22 of 107), then Electrical system (19) and Engine (16). Those filings include 10 that report a crash, 4 that report a fire, and 4 that report an injury.
The 2017 GLE-Class has 75 complaints, 8 per year. The 2016 has more complaints per year than the 2017.
The complaint rate is complaints filed in this year’s first 3 years on the road, divided by however many of those years have passed. Recalls are a separate count. The numbers are for the US-market 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. How we count. Data as of .
Recalls (0)
No recalls on file with NHTSA for this model year.
Complaints by component (107 total)
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Complaints filed per year
Excerpts from recent NHTSA complaint filings
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"On 8/28/2026, my Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 (W166, M276 engine) experienced a sudden, catastrophic engine stall while driving in active traffic. There was no Check Engine Light (CEL), dashboard warning, or mechanical…"
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"On 8/28/2026, my Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 (W166, M276 engine) experienced a sudden, catastrophic engine stall while driving in active traffic. There was no Check Engine Light (CEL), dashboard warning, or mechanical…"
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"While driving my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, the vehicle suddenly shut off and lost propulsion without warning. There was no check-engine light or other warning before the failure. The engine would crank afterward but…"
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"At 72,000 miles the rear differential failed. Repair required else car could abruptly stop rolling, become uncontrollable and cause a serious wreck. The part is over $5,000"
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"The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while opening the door, a cracked fuel injector was spraying gasoline. When the door handle was pulled, an aftermarket module ignited the fuel,…"
NHTSA crash ratings
| Version | Overall | Front | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe SUV 4WD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe SUV RWD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Hybrid SUV 4WD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Hybrid SUV RWD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV 4WD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | 4 stars |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV RWD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | 4 stars |
Stars are how this vehicle did in NHTSA crash tests. They are a safety result, separate from the complaint record. Not rated means that test was not run for this version.
Specs and fitment
Known issues for this generation
Recall 17V-241 covers certain 2016-2017 GLE, GLS, GLE Coupe, and E-Class Coupe vehicles where the electric power steering connector may be insufficiently sealed against water entry. Moisture can interrupt the control module and deactivate power assist. The May 2017 dealer notice cites about 58,323 vehicles in that campaign population across those platforms; dealers replace the connector housing and check contacts. NHTSA complaints on 2017 GLE filings most often name the electrical system and vehicle speed control.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class reliable?
NHTSA's file on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class holds 107 complaints after 11 years, a rate of 10 per year. That is more complaints per year than most GLE-Class years here — over the median of the other years, which is 7. NHTSA has no recalls on file for this model year.
What are common problems with a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The complaints owners file most often name Fuel and propulsion system (22 of 107), then Electrical system (19) and Engine (16). Those filings include 10 that report a crash, 4 that report a fire, and 4 that report an injury.
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class more reliable than the years next to it?
The 2017 GLE-Class has 75 complaints, 8 per year. The 2016 has more complaints per year than the 2017.
Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class been recalled?
NHTSA has no recalls on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
Owners have filed 107 complaints about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class with NHTSA.
How much can a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 tow?
Mercedes-Benz USA currently lists 7,700 lbs towing capacity for the GLE 350 when properly equipped. Confirm the rating and hitch package for your model year in the owner’s manual.
What oil does a GLE 350 take?
W166 (2016-2019): 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40. W167 (2020-on): 0W-20, 0W-30, or 0W-40 — verify the MB sheet on the oil container and engine sticker.
What does recall 17V-241 cover on early GLE?
Certain 2016-2017 GLE, GLS, GLE Coupe, and E-Class Coupe vehicles where the electric power steering connector may be insufficiently sealed against water entry. Moisture can interrupt the control module and deactivate power assist.