The W166 platform (ML-Class 2011–2015 / GLE-Class 2015–2019) shares every spine engine with generations already in the graph: the M276 V6 petrol (ML 350 / GLE 400), the M278 V8 petrol (ML 500 / GLE 500), the OM651 four-cylinder diesel (ML 250 BlueTEC / GLE 250d), and the OM642 V6 diesel (ML 350 BlueTEC / GLE 350d). The 2015 rename from ML to GLE was cosmetic — the platform, powertrains, and 4MATIC layout were carried over. The generation adds no new occurrence patterns of its own; those patterns resolve at the engine level onto the applicable build windows. Community orientation only, not a reliability rating or a purchase recommendation.
Known issues
Sorted by severity. Tap an issue to reveal its symptom, repair and what to check.
Engines & reliability
Tap a row to filter the issues to that engine.
Pre-purchase checklist
- ☐Start the engine cold and listen for a timing-chain rattle in the first seconds
- ☐Scan stored DTCs and check live fuel/ignition/boost data before the test drive