The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 has 6 recalls, the most serious being a fire risk from a 48-volt ground connection under the front passenger seat that can overheat if not properly secured.
The transmission also carries a notable concern: software can prevent a proper downshift in certain conditions, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly and raising the risk of a crash. On the structural side, the third-row seatback locks may fail in a crash and not properly restrain rear occupants, and rear door window trim bars can detach and become a road hazard. There is also a communication system recall affecting a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles: the automatic crash notification system can become disabled, preventing the car from contacting emergency services after a collision.
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.
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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.
