Mercedes-Benz GLE400 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your Mercedes-Benz GLE400 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Mercedes-Benz GLE400 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 Mercedes-Benz GLE400 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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Mercedes-Benz GLE400

When faced with a check engine light in your Mercedes-Benz GLE400, the first step is to diagnose the issue using an OBD-II scanner, which can provide specific error codes related to the problem. Start by checking simple fixes, such as ensuring that the fuel cap is tightly secured, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. If the light persists, inspect the vehicle's fuses, particularly those related to the OBD port, to rule out any electrical issues. After addressing these minor concerns, if the light remains illuminated, consider resetting it with the scanner or by disconnecting the negative battery cable. However, it’s essential to ensure that any underlying issues are resolved to prevent the light from reactivating. If you find that the check engine light continues to be a problem despite your efforts, it may be time to consult a professional for a thorough diagnostic inspection, ensuring your vehicle's performance and longevity are maintained.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Mercedes-Benz GLE400?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mercedes-Benz GLE400, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the exhaust and ensuring optimal engine performance. Additionally, issues with spark plugs can lead to misfires, triggering the warning light. A more serious concern could be a malfunctioning catalytic converter, which not only affects performance but can also lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. On a simpler note, a loose gas cap is often overlooked but can easily cause the check engine light to illuminate. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s essential to start with a thorough inspection of these components, as regular maintenance and timely diagnostics can save you from more significant issues down the line. If you’re unsure about the diagnosis, consulting a professional is always a wise choice to ensure your vehicle remains in top condition.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Mercedes-Benz GLE400?

When the check engine light illuminates in your Mercedes-Benz GLE400, it serves as a crucial warning that should not be ignored. The potential causes, ranging from a loose gas cap to more serious issues like a faulty catalytic converter or spark plugs, highlight the importance of timely intervention. Ignoring this warning can lead to escalating problems, including decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even engine damage, which can be costly to repair. Moreover, some issues may pose safety risks, such as compromised engine performance while driving. Therefore, it is essential to address the check engine light as soon as it appears, ensuring that you maintain the integrity of your vehicle and safeguard your driving experience. Regular diagnostics and maintenance can help prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs, ultimately prolonging the life of your GLE400.

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