Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d Body Kit Installation Review
Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d vertical grille upgrade: Approx. ₩300,000-₩600,000. Transforms appearance to a sportier, modern look in about 30 minutes.
Transform Your Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d with a Body Kit
Is your Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d, perhaps an older model like the W166, feeling a bit dated in its appearance? Many owners of vehicles around 8 years old look for ways to inject a fresh, sporty vibe into their car's exterior. One highly effective and relatively quick way to achieve this is by upgrading the front grille. This review focuses on the transformation possible with a new grille, often referred to as an 'aero kit' component, for the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d W166. This modification can dramatically alter the vehicle's presence, giving it a more aggressive and modern stance that rivals newer models.
The Appeal of a Vertical Grille Upgrade
The front of a car is its first impression, and for the Mercedes-Benz GLE W166, a common desire is to update its look. Replacing the original horizontal-bar grille with a vertical-bar design, reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz's latest family aesthetic, instantly makes the vehicle appear sportier and more dynamic. The beauty of this particular upgrade is its efficiency; it's a single part change that yields a significant overall dress-up effect. This review details the process and benefits observed during a vertical grille replacement on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE350d W166 at the 'Today's Car' Bucheon branch in Korea. The owner sought a more refined and sporty look, and the vertical grille proved to be the ideal solution.
Streamlined Installation Process for the GLE W166
A key advantage for the W166 generation of the GLE is the relative ease of this specific modification. Unlike many newer vehicles that require extensive bumper disassembly, the vertical grille swap on the W166 can often be completed by simply releasing a few bolts at the top of the grille assembly. This significantly reduces installation time, typically bringing the entire job to around 30 minutes. This efficiency is a major plus for owners looking for a quick yet impactful enhancement. The process involves careful removal of existing components like the front sensors and the Mercedes-Benz emblem from the original grille, followed by their precise installation onto the new vertical grille. Technicians must be meticulous, especially with the sensitive sensors on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, to avoid any error codes.
Installation Process:
- Carefully detach the original grille, ensuring all clips and mounting points are released without damage.
- Transfer essential components such as the front parking sensors, camera (if equipped), and the Mercedes-Benz emblem to the new vertical grille.
- Align the new grille precisely into its mounting location on the vehicle's front end.
- Secure the new grille using the appropriate fasteners, ensuring a snug and stable fit.
- Test all transferred components (sensors, camera) to confirm proper function and absence of error messages.
The result is a visibly updated front end that enhances the GLE 350d's road presence, offering a sporty and modern aesthetic without the extensive labor often associated with full body kit installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit installation cost for a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d?
The vertical grille upgrade featured cost approximately ₩300,000 to ₩600,000 (roughly $220-$440 USD) in Korea. Full body kit installations can range from $1,500 to $5,000+ in the US, depending on the kit and labor.
Q. How durable is a body kit on a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d?
The durability depends on the material; ABS plastic and polyurethane are generally more resilient to minor impacts than fiberglass. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will help maintain its finish and longevity.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d?
A body kit, especially a grille upgrade, is worth it for GLE 350d owners seeking a significant visual refresh and a sportier, more modern aesthetic. It's a cost-effective way to enhance the vehicle's presence compared to buying a new model.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d?
For a vertical grille upgrade on the W166 GLE, installation typically involves releasing top bolts without full bumper removal, taking about 30 minutes. Components like sensors and emblems are carefully transferred from the old grille to the new one.
Q. What is the difference between ABS plastic and polyurethane body kits for a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d?
ABS plastic kits are often more rigid and easier to paint, while polyurethane kits offer superior flexibility and impact resistance, making them less prone to cracking. Polyurethane is generally preferred for its durability and fitment.
OhCar Partner Shop
