Summary
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 has 21 recalls spanning the 2018 through 2024 model years, with the most serious being a fuel pump that can shut down without warning on 2021-2024 vehicles, cutting drive power and raising the risk of a crash. Several other issues on 2020-2021 models affect crash protection and active safety. The electronic stability control software on 2020-2021 vehicles can apply torque to one front wheel during an evasive maneuver, pulling the car sideways unexpectedly. On 2021-2022 models, a misrouted front acceleration sensor wiring harness can prevent the front airbags from deploying in a crash. The middle rear seatbelt buckle on 2020-2021 five-passenger models can fall into the gap beneath the seat cushion, leaving a rear occupant unrestrained. A loose dashboard surface on 2020-2021 vehicles can interfere with the passenger airbag deploying correctly.
The 2020 model year carries the heaviest cluster of recalls. A fuel filler pipe weld defect can allow fuel to leak near potential ignition sources, and the rear crossmember welds can crack under towing loads and allow the crossmember to separate from the vehicle entirely. The driveshaft locking ring on 2020 models may not have been installed correctly, which can sever the power connection between the transfer case and the rear axle and cause the vehicle to stall. A wiring harness in the engine compartment that is not properly secured can disable power steering assist, headlights, or wipers simultaneously. Separately, 2020 models with an optional illuminated front grille star logo face the same consequence through a related electrical path affecting the same systems. Air conditioner drain hoses routed incorrectly on 2020-2021 vehicles allow water to pool in the driver and passenger footwells, where it can corrode wiring or cause short circuits that raise a fire risk. On 2020 models with electrically adjustable second-row seats, wiring beneath those seats can be pinched during adjustment and prevent the rear side airbags from deploying. The passenger frontal airbag on 2020 models can fail to deploy fully in very high cabin temperatures. A floor weld defect on 2020 vehicles can leave a small hole that lets water into the cabin and threatens electrical components. A single 2020 vehicle was also recalled for a driver's seat bolt that may not hold the seat securely in a crash.
On 2018 models, Continental tires installed at the factory were over-cured during production and can develop sidewall cracks or shed tread without warning. The panoramic sunroof glass on 2018 models may not be adequately bonded and can detach while driving.
