20 recalls across 6 model years
The Mercedes-Benz GLS450 has 20 recalls covering 2016 through 2021 model years, with the most serious being a fire risk on 2021 models where a 48-volt ground cable under the front passenger seat can overheat if its mounting bolt is not properly secured.
The 2021 model year carries the heaviest concentration of issues. A separate but related 48-volt ground connection problem on 2019-2021 models can also overheat and create a fire risk. On 2021 vehicles, the fuel pump can shut down without warning, cutting drive power while in motion, and the transmission software can fail to complete a downshift in certain conditions, stalling the engine. Also on 2021 models, incorrectly installed air conditioner drain hoses can allow water to pool in the front footwells, where it can corrode electrical components or cause a short circuit and fire. The rear window on 2021 models may not be adequately bonded to the tailgate and can detach, becoming a road hazard. Third-row seatback locks on 2020-2021 models can fail in a crash, leaving rear occupants without proper restraint. The backup camera on 2021 models can display a black screen or reboot on startup, reducing rear visibility. Rear door window trim bars on 2020-2021 models can detach and fall onto the road.
The emergency call system appears across several recalls affecting 2017-2021 models. In one case the system can be disabled entirely, preventing contact with emergency services after a crash. In another, a software fault can cause the system to transmit an incorrect vehicle location, potentially sending responders to the wrong place.
On 2017 models, a door latch fault can allow a door that appears locked to open unexpectedly, and the front passenger airbag may not deploy correctly in a crash due to a separate inflator module issue. The center console on 2017 models can unlatch in a crash, sending loose objects into the cabin. A front suspension oil leak on 2017 models can drip onto a hot surface and ignite.
The 2016 model year has a windshield bonding issue where the glass can separate from the body in a crash, leaving the front passenger airbag without the structural support it needs to deploy properly. On 2020 models, rear door window trim can detach and become a road hazard, and interior switch illumination can fail on 2020-2021 models, making controls harder to locate while driving.
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Top 8 of 10 categories across MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450
| Component | Recalls | Share | Critical | High | Medium | Low | Informational |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body & Latches | 4 | 20% | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Software & Electronics | 4 | 20% | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Electrical | 3 | 15% | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Airbags | 2 | 10% | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Visibility | 2 | 10% | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Fuel System | 1 | 5% | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Suspension | 1 | 5% | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Seats | 1 | 5% | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Other | 2 | 10% | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Component categories are grouped from raw recall data and may not match manufacturer terminology exactly.
