Mercedes-Benz GLE Glow Plugs Replacement Parts

Yes, but only on diesel-engined GLE models – glow plugs are a diesel-only ignition aid and are not fitted to any petrol GLE variant. The GLE has been sold in the UK with diesel engines including the 220d, 250d, 300d, and 350d, all of which use glow plugs to pre-heat the combustion chamber for cold starts. If your GLE is a petrol model (for example the 400 or 580), it uses a conventional spark ignition system and glow plugs simply do not apply to your vehicle.

The W166 ran from 2015 to 2019 and the W167 replaced it from 2019 onwards – these are distinct generations with different diesel engine families, so glow plugs are not a straightforward swap between them. The engine code on your V5 or a VIN check is the most reliable way to identify the exact plug specification you need, as the part is matched to the engine, not the generation name. Confirm compatibility with the breaker against your registration before purchasing.

Both years fall within the W166 generation (2015–2019), so there is a reasonable chance the glow plugs will share the same specification, but fitment ultimately depends on matching engine codes rather than model year alone. A 220d and a 350d of the same year, for example, will use different plugs. Give the breaker your engine code – found on your V5 or a VIN decoder – to confirm the part is correct for your specific engine.

No – trim level makes no difference whatsoever to glow plug fitment. AMG Line, Sport, and SE are specification packages that alter interior and exterior features, but the glow plugs are determined entirely by the engine fitted, not the badge on the car. Focus on providing your engine code and fuel type to the breaker rather than worrying about trim designation.

As a general rule, a diesel engine has one glow plug per cylinder, so a four-cylinder GLE diesel such as the 220d or 300d will require four glow plugs, while a six-cylinder such as the 350d will require six. When buying used parts from a breaker it is worth confirming they can supply the full set matching your engine code, as mixing old and new plugs of differing specifications is not recommended. Always verify the exact quantity and part specification with the breaker against your registration.

Glow plugs themselves are mechanical components and do not require ECU coding or pairing to the vehicle in the way that some electronic modules do – they are essentially a like-for-like replacement once the correct specification is confirmed. However, some GLE diesel systems monitor glow plug performance through the engine management system, so if a fault code persists after fitting you may need a diagnostic check. Confirm any concerns about your specific setup with the breaker or a Mercedes-specialist before purchasing.