Second Hand Mercedes-Benz GLE Timing Chain

All Mercedes-Benz GLE engines across both generations use a timing chain rather than a timing belt, so a chain is the correct part to look for. This applies to the W166 GLE (2015–2019) and the V167 GLE (2019–present), covering petrol and diesel variants alike. Because timing chains are designed to last the life of the engine they do sometimes wear and require replacement, so there is a genuine used-parts market for them on this model.

Both years sit within the W166 generation (2015–2019), and the OM629 diesel engine used in the 350d is the primary fitment factor here — if your engine codes match, the chain and tensioner components are very likely to be compatible. That said, confirm the exact engine code from your V5 or a VIN check with the breaker before purchasing, as ancillary components can change mid-production without a formal model-year update. Never assume fitment solely on the year — the engine code is the detail that matters most.

The W166 and V167 are distinct generations with different engine families, so crossing that 2019 boundary is where fitment becomes uncertain even if the engine displacement and fuel type appear similar on paper. The newer V167 introduced updated engine variants, and the internal chain architecture is not necessarily shared with its predecessor. Name the generation boundary to the breaker, supply your full engine code, and let them confirm whether any crossover is possible for your specific unit.

Trim level makes no difference to timing chain fitment on the GLE — AMG Line, Sport, and Executive are specification packages that affect interior, exterior, and equipment choices, not the engine internals. What matters is the engine code, which will be identical across trims fitted with the same unit. Quote your engine code to the breaker and disregard the trim name entirely when sourcing this part.

No — petrol and diesel engines in the GLE use entirely different engine families with different internal architectures, so their timing chains are not interchangeable. For example, the OM629 diesel and the M276 petrol engine have distinct chain arrangements, tensioners, and guides. Always specify both your fuel type and engine code when requesting a quote from a breaker to ensure you receive the correct chain kit.

The 2021 GLE 300d sits in the V167 generation and typically uses the OM654 four-cylinder diesel engine, but you should verify your exact engine code from the V5 document or a VIN check rather than relying on the badge alone. Providing the engine code directly to the breaker is the single most useful thing you can do, as it removes any ambiguity around mid-cycle engine updates or market-specific variations. The breaker can then match the chain, tensioner, and guides precisely to your unit.