Second Hand Mercedes-Benz GLE Cylinder Head

The GLE W166 generation ran from 2015 to 2019, so both years sit within the same generation, but the engine code is the factor that truly determines whether a cylinder head will interchange — a matching engine code (found on your V5 or via a VIN check) is far more reliable than matching years alone. That said, Mercedes did introduce running production changes during the W166's life, so you should confirm with the breaker against your registration that no ancillary or mounting differences apply. Never assume fitment on year alone.

The GLE W166 (2015–2019) shares its platform with the ML W166 (2011–2015), and some engine families carried across the nameplate change, so a matching engine code is a genuinely useful starting point. However, whether a specific cylinder head from an ML will bolt directly onto your GLE is something you must confirm with the breaker against your exact registration, as mid-production and cross-model ancillary differences can catch buyers out. The engine code printed on your V5 is the single most useful detail to supply.

AMG Line, Sport, and standard trim levels on the GLE are cosmetic and equipment packages; they do not alter the engine, so trim level has no bearing on cylinder head fitment. What matters is the engine code, which will be identical across those trims if the fuel type and displacement are the same. You may find minor cosmetic differences on ancillary parts in the engine bay between trim levels, but the cylinder head itself is unaffected by badge or trim designation.

The second-generation GLE W167 was introduced for the 2019 model year, making 2019 a boundary year where both generations were on sale simultaneously, so a W166 head and a W167 head are not interchangeable even if both carry a 2019 date. The W167 brought revised engine variants and updated architecture, so crossing that generation boundary means you must supply your exact engine code and registration to the breaker, who can confirm whether any part number overlaps exist. Do not assume a 2019 plate alone confirms which generation you have.

The 350d designation points to a specific engine code within Mercedes' OM656 or OM629 diesel family depending on generation, and it is that engine code rather than the 350d badge that determines correct fitment. Other diesel GLE variants such as the 300d use a different displacement and engine code, so their cylinder heads are not interchangeable with the 350d even though both are diesel. Pull your engine code from the V5 or a VIN check and give it to the breaker — it is the one detail that cuts through badge and badging ambiguity.

Yes, fuel type is a fundamental fitment criterion — petrol and diesel cylinder heads are entirely different components with different combustion chamber designs, injector positions, and port arrangements, so a petrol head will not fit a diesel engine and vice versa. Beyond fuel type, the specific engine code within each fuel family is the definitive guide, as Mercedes offered multiple petrol and diesel variants across the GLE range. Always provide both your fuel type and engine code to the breaker to avoid any ambiguity.