Summary
The Mercedes-Benz G Class has 19 recalls spanning 2003 through 2025, with the most serious recent issue being improperly tightened wheel bolts on 2025 electric models that can loosen over time, destabilizing the vehicle and raising the risk of a crash.
The 2025 model year also has two other recalls: an ESP software problem can cause stability warning messages to display incorrectly or suppress the malfunction indicator light, and a single-vehicle recall covers a front bumper sensor that may not function correctly, disabling adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist. On 2020 models, front door crash sensors can disconnect from their housings, potentially delaying the side airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in a side-impact crash.
The 2019 model year carries a cluster of issues. Front door wiring routed incorrectly can be worn down by normal door operation, compromising the airbag system and emergency door-unlock function. Separately, a front axle wiring harness can contact the auxiliary oil cooler and wear through, knocking out both the anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. Rear door latches on some 2019 vehicles can fail to engage, allowing a door to swing open while driving, and forcing the child safety lock while it is engaged can damage the lock and prevent passengers from opening the door from inside. A mislabeled child safety lock symbol on 2019 rear doors adds further confusion around this system.
On 2017 models, the reverse gear speed limiter can exceed its design threshold, allowing the vehicle to exceed 25 km/h in reverse, where a sharp steering input can cause a rollover. There is also a brake booster vacuum hose on 2017 vehicles whose inner wall can delaminate, which can reduce braking power. The 2016 model year has a software issue in the stability control system that can require greater brake pedal force to stop the vehicle, extending stopping distances on models equipped with Distronic Plus radar brake assist. The inner door handle cables on 2016 models can break under the load of opening a door in a crash, potentially trapping occupants.
Going further back, the 2013 model has a steering coupling whose splines can wear excessively, weakening the connection between the steering wheel and the road wheels to the point of total steering loss. On 2011 models, a dashboard molding strip near the passenger airbag cover may be poorly welded and can break free during airbag deployment, either entering the cabin or blocking the airbag from fully inflating. The 2009 model has a fuel line quick connector under the vehicle that may not have been fully seated at the factory, creating a potential fuel leak and fire risk. The 2005 G55 AMG has a fuel return hose that can crack and leak near potential ignition sources. The 2003 G55 AMG has a compliance issue with an off-road turn signal guard that may not meet lighting output requirements.
