Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 GLE53 AMG 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 GLE53 AMG 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 GLE53 AMG

When faced with a check engine light in your Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG, the first step is to diagnose the fault using an OBD-II scanner, which can provide specific error codes related to the issue. This initial assessment is crucial as it helps pinpoint the underlying problem, whether it’s a minor sensor issue or something more significant. Once you have the diagnostic codes, you can research the potential causes and solutions, allowing you to tackle simpler fixes first, such as checking gas caps or replacing faulty sensors. After addressing the identified issues, it’s important to reset the check engine light, which can often be done with the scanner or by disconnecting the negative battery cable for a few minutes. If the light persists or if you encounter complex problems beyond your expertise, seeking assistance from a qualified technician is advisable to ensure your vehicle's performance and safety are not compromised. By following this structured approach, you can effectively manage the check engine light and maintain your GLE53 AMG in optimal condition.

What Common Problems Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG, it’s crucial to identify the common problems that may be triggering this warning. A loose gas cap is often the simplest explanation; if not secured properly after refueling, it can easily activate the light. Another frequent issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which is essential for regulating the air-fuel mixture and optimizing engine efficiency. Additionally, problems with spark plugs can lead to the check engine light illuminating, as these components are vital for proper engine function. Lastly, issues with the catalytic converter, which plays a key role in reducing harmful emissions, can also cause the warning light to appear. By addressing these common issues promptly, you can maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to stay informed about these potential problems.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your Mercedes-Benz GLE53 AMG, it serves as a crucial warning that should not be ignored. While some issues, like a loose gas cap, may seem minor, neglecting the light can lead to more significant problems over time, potentially affecting your vehicle's performance and safety. For instance, a faulty mass airflow sensor or issues with the oxygen sensor, spark plugs, or catalytic converter can result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, which could ultimately lead to costly repairs. Moreover, if the check engine light is accompanied by other warning indicators, it may signal a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose the problem as soon as possible, whether through a professional technician or by using an OBD-II scanner for a DIY approach. Addressing these symptoms promptly not only ensures your vehicle runs smoothly but also helps prevent further damage and maintains your safety on the road.

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