A used Mercedes GLE is one of the best-value luxury SUVs you can buy, because the GLE loses value fast. Kelley Blue Book puts a 2021 GLE 350 at about $29,900 from a dealer, less than half its price when new. The catch is picking the right year: NHTSA data shows the 2020 GLE had more recalls than any other year.
Here are the best and worst years, current used prices, and what to check before you buy a second hand Mercedes GLE.
Used Mercedes GLE: quick answer
- Best years: 2023 and newer (2 to 4 recalls per model year)
- Best value: 2022, the newest year that has had most of its depreciation
- Year to avoid: 2020, the first year of the current generation (18 recalls for the GLE 350, 32 for the GLE 450)
- Budget pick: 2016 GLE 350 (2 recalls), if you accept an older design
Best and worst years for a used GLE
| Model year | GLE 350 recalls | GLE 450 recalls | Generation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 2 | – | First GLE (W166) |
| 2017 | 7 | – | W166 |
| 2018 | 7 | – | W166 |
| 2019 | 2 | – | W166, last year |
| 2020 | 18 | 32 | New generation (W167) |
| 2021 | 8 | 17 | W167 |
| 2022 | 5 | 11 | W167 |
| 2023 | 2 | 4 | W167 |
| 2024 | 3 | 4 | W167, facelift |
Source: NHTSA recalls database, checked November 2026. Counts are recall campaigns that list each model and year.
Used Mercedes GLE prices
| 2021 GLE trim | Fair purchase price |
|---|---|
| GLE 350 (rear-wheel drive) | $29,900 |
| GLE 350 4MATIC | $29,500 |
| GLE 450 4MATIC | $34,700 |
| GLE 580 4MATIC | $38,300 |
Source: Kelley Blue Book national average dealer prices, November 2026.
For comparison, a new 2026 GLE 350 starts at $63,500, so a three- to five-year-old model saves you more than $30,000.
Is a used Mercedes GLE a good buy?
Yes, if you pick a sorted model year and it has a full service history. The GLE scores 80/100 for quality and reliability in J.D. Power owner ratings, the highest of any Mercedes SUV. Its fast depreciation is bad news for new buyers but good news for anyone shopping for a used Mercedes GLE.
GLE 350 or GLE 450?
The GLE 350 uses a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. The GLE 450 has a 3.0-liter six-cylinder with mild-hybrid assistance, and it costs about $5,000 more used. On a used Mercedes GLE, the six-cylinder is smoother and better for towing, but the 2020 GLE 450 had the most recalls in our table. Compare them in our GLE 450 guide and GLE 350 4MATIC guide.
What to check on a second hand Mercedes GLE
- Open recalls: enter the VIN on the NHTSA website and ask for proof that recall work was done.
- Air suspension: if fitted, check the car sits level after standing overnight.
- Electronics: test the MBUX screens, cameras and driver assistance features.
- Service history: on any used Mercedes GLE, ask for the records. Mercedes recommends servicing every 10,000 miles or once a year.
- Warranty: a Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned GLE comes with an extended limited warranty.
Used GLE alternatives
If you need a proper third row, a used GLS is roomier than a used Mercedes GLE; see our GLE vs GLS comparison. If you only need five seats, a used GLC costs less again; see our used Mercedes GLC guide and the full used Mercedes SUV buying guide.
Used Mercedes GLE FAQs
What is the best year for GLE?
2023 or newer, with only 2 to 4 recalls per model year. The 2022 is the best value.
Is the Mercedes GLE a good buy?
Yes. It has the best J.D. Power owner score of any Mercedes SUV, at 80/100, and it depreciates quickly, so used prices are low.
What year GLE should I avoid?
The 2020, the first year of the current generation, with 18 recalls for the GLE 350 and 32 for the GLE 450.
Which Mercedes to stay away from?
As a rule, the first model year of any new Mercedes SUV generation. The 2020 GLE, GLS and GLB all had their highest recall counts in their first year.
How much is a used Mercedes GLE?
Around $29,500 to $38,300 for a 2021 model, depending on the engine, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Related reads
- Used Mercedes SUV Buying Guide: Best and Worst Years by Model
- Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC: 2026 Price, Specs, Problems and Best Years
- Mercedes GLE 450: 2026 Price, Specs, Towing and vs GLE 350
- Most Reliable Mercedes SUV: Every Model Ranked by Owner Scores and Recalls
For more Mercedes SUV guides, visit MercedesSUV.com.