Second Hand Mercedes-Benz GLE Gearbox

The GLE runs in two clear generations: the first-generation W166 (2015–2019) and the second-generation V167 (2019-onwards), with the generations sharing very little mechanically. Within each generation there is a reasonable chance of interchange, but the engine code on your V5 is the single most reliable detail — two GLEs from the same year but with different engine codes can require entirely different gearboxes. Always confirm the exact engine code with the breaker before purchasing.

2017 sits in the first-generation W166 and 2019 is right on the boundary where production moved to the second-generation V167, so these are potentially two different generations with different transmissions. Even if both cars happen to be W166 examples, fuel type and engine code must match for fitment to be possible. Give the breaker both registration numbers and confirm which generation each car is before proceeding.

Trim levels like Sport, AMG Line, and AMG Line Premium are cosmetic and equipment packages — they do not change the gearbox specification. What determines fitment is the engine code, fuel type (diesel or petrol), and whether the car has a 9G-Tronic or other transmission variant, none of which are dictated by trim. Bear in mind a gearbox sourced from a higher-trim car will be mechanically identical if the engine code matches, though any cosmetic ancillaries attached to it are irrelevant to whether it fits your car.

Yes, this matters significantly — diesel and petrol GLE variants use different gearbox units even within the same generation, and a diesel box will not be a correct replacement for a petrol-engined car. Always match on fuel type first, then cross-reference the engine code (found on your V5 or via a VIN check) to make sure the specific variant is compatible. Tell the breaker both fuel type and engine code to avoid any mismatch.

The 350d and 300d carry different engine codes and different power outputs, which means the gearbox calibration and potentially the unit itself can differ even though both are diesel models from the same generation. Engine code is the deciding factor here, not the badge on the boot lid. Provide the breaker with the engine codes for both donor and recipient vehicles so they can confirm whether the units are interchangeable.

This is something you must confirm with the breaker and your fitting garage rather than rely on a general answer, as ECU pairing and transmission adaptation can vary depending on the specific model year and software version involved. Modern Mercedes gearboxes often require adaptation or coding to the receiving vehicle using specialist diagnostic equipment, and this is not always straightforward with a used unit. Factor in the potential cost of coding when budgeting for the job.