Vehicle price comparison
Mercedes GLE Class vs Kia Optima Steering Column prices
Saurabh Kumar
Co-Founder & CTO, Part Price Guide
Built the pricing pipeline that collects and normalizes used OEM part listings from salvage yards and online marketplaces across the US.
Ambika Sharma
Co-Founder & COO, Part Price Guide
12 years of project management and technical operations experience. Reviews price guides for sample size, fitment accuracy, and data freshness.
Price face-off
Median price comparison
Condition comparison
How does the price differ by part grade?
Market analysis
Why does the Mercedes GLE Class steering column cost more?
A used Mercedes GLE Class steering column carries a median asking price of $210, which is 35% higher than the Kia Optima at $155. Supply also plays a role: Mercedes GLE Class has 4,389 priced listings versus 1,357 for Kia Optima, and more listings generally mean more choices and more competitive pricing.
The Kia Optima average ($179) runs 15% above its median ($155), indicating a tail of high-priced listings — likely low-mileage or remanufactured units pulling the average up.
Our guide covers 10 model years for the Mercedes GLE Class (2016–2025) but only 5 for the Kia Optima (2015–2020), so the Mercedes GLE Class data reflects a broader range of generations.
Only 69% of Kia Optima steering column listings include a posted price (1,357 of 1,961 observed) — the rest are "call for price," which usually signals negotiable or higher-than-average pricing.
The Mercedes GLE Class steering column is interchangeable across 13 model years versus just 7 for the Kia Optima — that wider compatibility window means more donor vehicles in salvage yards and tends to push prices lower.
At Grade A (excellent) condition, the Kia Optima is 27% cheaper ($155 vs $211) — the gap narrows compared to the overall median difference.
Buyer's checklist
What to check before buying a used steering column
- Confirm steering column adjustment options (manual tilt, power tilt/telescoping) and shifter style (column-shift automatic vs floor-shift).
- Inspect upper and lower intermediate shaft u-joints and collapsible slip joints for play, binding, or crash-collapse deployment.
- Verify inclusion and condition of the clock spring, steering angle sensor, multifunction turn signal switches, and ignition lock assembly.
- Match wiring harness connector plugs, ensuring support for cruise control, heated steering wheel, and airbag wiring harness pinouts.
Full price guide
Mercedes GLE Class Steering Column
$66 – $644 · 4,389 listings
Full price guide
Kia Optima Steering Column
$45 – $643 · 1,357 listings
Common questions
Mercedes GLE Class vs Kia Optima steering column FAQ
Is a used Mercedes GLE Class steering column cheaper than a Kia Optima?
Kia Optima has the lower median by $55 (35%). The Kia Optima steering column ranges from $45 to $643 across 1,357 listings, while the Mercedes GLE Class ranges from $66 to $644 across 4,389 listings.
Can I use a Mercedes GLE Class steering column in a Kia Optima?
This comparison describes pricing, not interchangeability. Even when two parts share similar prices, they may require different engines, trims, electronics, or mounting points. Always match the seller's part number against your VIN before purchasing.
How many listings does this comparison cover?
This comparison draws from 4,389 priced Mercedes GLE Class listings and 1,357 priced Kia Optima listings — 5,746 in total.
How does condition grade affect the price?
Part condition significantly impacts price. Grade A (Excellent): Mercedes GLE Class $211 vs Kia Optima $155. Grade B (Good): Mercedes GLE Class $175 vs Kia Optima $170. Grade C (Fair): Mercedes GLE Class $141 vs Kia Optima $95. Grade A parts are in excellent condition, B is good, and C is fair — always confirm grading criteria with the seller.
Are there different trim variants to choose from?
Yes. The Mercedes GLE Class steering column has 4 trim variants and the Kia Optima has 5. Variants differ by engine size, drivetrain, or part number — matching the right variant is critical for proper fitment.
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