The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 has 6 recalls, the most serious being an electrical fire risk from a 48-volt ground connection under the front passenger seat that can overheat, and a transmission software fault that can cause the engine to stall without warning.
On the electrical side, the loose ground connection under the passenger seat can generate enough heat to ignite surrounding materials. The transmission issue stems from software that fails to complete a downshift in certain conditions, cutting engine power while the vehicle is in motion. Third-row occupant safety is also a concern: the seatback locks on the third-row seats can fail in a crash, leaving rear passengers without proper restraint and raising their risk of injury. The automatic crash notification system, which connects occupants to emergency services after a collision, can be disabled on certain vehicles, meaning a call for help may not go through when it is needed most. On the exterior, rear door window trim bars can work loose and detach from the vehicle, becoming road debris that poses a hazard to other drivers.
At a glance
What can fail
The 48-Volt ground connection under the passenger seat may not be properly secured, which can cause it to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten the 48-Volt ground connection as needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
At a glance
What can fail
The transmission may fail to downshift completely in certain conditions, which can cause the engine to stall.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the transmission control unit software at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The locks securing the third-row seatbacks may fail during a crash due to a manufacturing error, potentially allowing the seatbacks to move unexpectedly.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the third-row seatback as needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The trim bars around the rear door windows may come loose and detach due to a manufacturing error.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the rear window trim bars and secure them as needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the communication module's SIM card can prevent mobile network connection, which disables the emergency call (eCall) system.
What the fix does
The communication module software will be updated at no cost through an over-the-air update or by a dealer.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The ground cable bolt for the 48V electrical connection under the front passenger seat may not be properly tightened, which can cause the cable to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten the ground cable bolt as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
