2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 Has A Check Engine Light

Addressing Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps for a check engine light on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, it's essential to start with a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings that may provide further clues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the problem. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine performance issues. Don't overlook the condition of your spark plugs; worn or damaged plugs can also activate the check engine light. Finally, conduct a visual inspection under the hood for any signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors, as these can contribute to engine malfunctions. By following these steps, you can effectively gather the necessary information to diagnose the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, it often signals a range of common issues that can be addressed with some basic automotive knowledge. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened to resolve the warning. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which monitors exhaust gases and can fail over time, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can arise, affecting the vehicle's ability to filter exhaust gases properly. Spark plug wear is another frequent culprit, as faulty plugs can disrupt engine performance and trigger the light. The mass airflow sensor, responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine, can also malfunction, resulting in poor engine performance. Ignition coil failures may occur as well, leading to misfires that can activate the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire, often caused by a combination of these issues, can indicate deeper problems that require immediate attention. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues, ensuring their GLE350 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals that there may be a significant issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this alert can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, compromised engine performance, and even severe engine damage over time. The sophisticated onboard diagnostics in modern vehicles like the GLE350 can help identify the specific issue, but timely intervention is crucial. Delaying a diagnosis could not only exacerbate the problem but also result in costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is highly advisable to consult a qualified mechanic as soon as the check engine light appears to ensure your vehicle remains safe and operates efficiently.

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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 Check Engine Light Guide