U.S. public vehicle records

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

35 owner complaints analyzed

8 distinct recall campaigns

13,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2017 model year. Data updated: 2026-10-01 (October 1, 2026). 14 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Electrical System is the most frequently named component, appearing in 8 of 35 complaints (22.9%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
Topic	Matching reports	Share of complaints
Braking behavior	3	8.6%
Electrical and battery issues	3	8.6%
Steering behavior	3	8.6%
Transmission and shifting	1	2.9%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Electrical System

Engine

Unknown Or Other

Exterior Lighting

Fuel/Propulsion System

Steering

Power Train

Seats

Electrical System: 8; Engine: 8; Unknown Or Other: 7; Exterior Lighting: 6; Fuel/Propulsion System: 5; Steering: 4; Power Train: 2; Seats: 2

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000

25,000 to 49,999

50,000 to 74,999

75,000 to 99,999

100,000 to 149,999

150,000 and above

Under 25,000: 9; 25,000 to 49,999: 3; 50,000 to 74,999: 1; 75,000 to 99,999: 0; 100,000 to 149,999: 1; 150,000 and above: 0

Under 25,000 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (9). 21 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2016: 3; 2017: 5; 2018: 3; 2019: 5; 2020: 4; 2022: 3; 2023: 2; 2024: 3; 2025: 4; 2026: 3

Pattern summary

Electrical System leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 3 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 3 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 3 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10865047 · 2016-05-16 (May 16, 2016)

HEADRESTS IN THE 2ND ROW ARE UNSAFE, IN THE UP POSITION IT HAS NO PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN OR ADULTS, IN THE DOWN POSITION IT PUSHES THE NECK AND HEAD OF ALL PASSENGERS FORWARD.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10865047 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10896957 · 2016-08-18 (August 18, 2016)

REAR DIFFERENTIAL AXLE SEALS WERE DISTORTED, CAUSING FLUID TO LEAD OUT. THE SEALS APPEAR TO HAVE BEEN INSTALLED INCORRECTLY WHEN THE CAR WAS MANUFACTURED. SEALS HAVE BEEN REPLACED PRIOR TO ANY ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE OR DRIVE TRAIN. DEALER REPLACED SEAL QUICKLY AND PROMPTLY. DEALERSHIP WAS A PLEASURE TO DEAL WITH.

Owner-reported narrative. 1,150 miles reported. Look up ODI 10896957 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10934831 · 2016-12-12 (December 12, 2016)

VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY.

Owner-reported narrative. 1,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10969872 · 2017-04-01 (April 1, 2017)

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD…

Owner-reported narrative. 1,750 miles reported. Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10981584 · 2017-05-01 (May 1, 2017)

REAR WINDOW FRACTURED WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WITH NO OTHER CARS AROUND OR PEOPLE. OCCURRED ON A COUNTY ROAD.

Owner-reported narrative. 13,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10981584 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11030500 · 2017-09-29 (September 29, 2017)

I BOUGHT 2017 GLS 450 IN JULY LAST YEAR 2016.THE PASSENGER SEAT DOES NOT MOVE PROPERLY FORWARD AND BACKWARD.AFTER THE INITIAL REVIEW THE DEALER TOLD ME IT WAS EXTERNAL INFLUENCE THAT CREATED THE PROBLEM. THE MOTOR IS UNDER THE SEAT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEAT. IN NO WAY IT COULD BE EXTERNAL PROBLEM. THE SEAT WILL NOT MOVE IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENT AND THERE COULD BE NO DEPLOY OF THE AIRBAG DUE TO MALFUNCTION OF SEAT.I M JUST WORRIED OF THE SAFETY OF THE FAMILY. PLEASE CAN U CHECK IN THIS MATTER THANKS.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11030500 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11045036 · 2017-11-09 (November 9, 2017)

THE STANDARD HEADLIGHTS ARE EXTREMELY DIM AND UNSUITABLE FOR NIGHTTIME DRIVING. THEY HAVE A BRIGHTNESS ROUGHLY EQUIVALENT TO PARKING LIGHTS. THIS IS A PROBLEM KNOWN TO MERCEDES ACCORDING TO MANY ONLINE BOARDS. MY VEHICLE IS UNSAFE FOR NIGHT DRIVING AND NEEDS TO BE RETROFITTED WITH SOME USABLE HEADLIGHTS. VISIBILITY IS ONLY ABOUT 10 FEET IN FRONT OF THE CAR WHICH IS UNACCEPTABLE FOR HIGHWAY DRIVING.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11045036 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11048747 · 2017-11-27 (November 27, 2017)

WHEN IN DISTRONIC+ WHICH INCLUDES LANE KEEPING ASSIST, MY CAR SWERVES SHARPLY OUT OF ITS LANE FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHICH, WHILE INFREQUENT, COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR TO THE LOCAL DEALER RESULTING IN NO CAUSE IDENTIFICATION AND HAVE PROVIDED AN EMAIL TO MERCEDES CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH NO RESPONSE YET. I PREVIOUSLY SPOKE TO MERCEDES CUSTOMER SERVICE ON THE PHONE AND THEY SUGGESTED TAKING IT BACK TO THE DEALER. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP IN ADDRESSING THIS MATTER. THE DATE I SELECTED BELOW THE LAST TIME THE PROBLEM OCCURRED ON US 19…

Owner-reported narrative. 8,500 miles reported. Look up ODI 11048747 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

8 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

17V077000 · Latches/Locks/Linkages

Reported: 2017-02-08 (February 8, 2017)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017 GLE 400 4Matic, GLE 350 4Matic, GLE 350, GLE 550E 4Matic, GLE 63 AMG, GLE 63S AMG, GLE 43 AMG 4Matic Coupe, GLE 63S AMG 4Matic Coupe, GLS 450 4Matic, GLS 550 4Matic, and GLS 63 AMG 4Matic vehicles. In certain types of crash events, the center console may unlatch, allowing the objects within to fly around the cabin. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."

Consequence: In the event of a crash, if objects are not secured within the center console, they may strike the vehicle occupants, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will modify the center console so that it remains latched in a crash, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in early March 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

17V655000 · Air Bags:Frontal:Passenger Side:Inflator Module | Visibility:Windshield

Reported: 2017-10-17 (October 17, 2017)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 GLE300d 4Matic, GLE400 4Matic, GLE350 4Matic, GLE63 AMG, GLE63 AMG Coupe, GLE63S AMG and GLE63S AMG Coupe, and 2017 GLS450 4Matic, GLE550 4Matic, and GLE63 AMG 4Matic vehicles. These vehicles may have excess bulkhead insulation extending into the lower windshield area, possibly affecting the windshield bonding and the full protective function of the passenger's frontal air bag in the event of a crash.

Consequence: If the passenger's frontal air bag does not function as designed in the event of a crash, the front seat passenger has an increased risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will remove any excess bulkhead insulation and rework the windshield bonding, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner letters will be mailed in December 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy is available in late January 2018. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018020002. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

17V816000 · Latches/Locks/Linkages:Doors:Latch

Reported: 2017-12-18 (December 18, 2017)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017 GLE400 4Matic, GLE350 4Matic, GLE350, GLE550e 4Matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic, GLE63 AMG 4Matic, GLS450, GLE63S 4Matic, GLS63 4Matic, S550e, S600, S63 AMG 4Matic, S65 AMG, S550, Mercedes-Maybach S600, Mercedes-Maybach S550 4Matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic Coupe, GLE63S 4Matic Coupe, 2017-2018 GLS550 4Matic, S550 4Matic, 2018 S450, and S63 AMG 4Matic vehicles. The rear passenger door on the driver side may indicate that it is locked, when it may not be. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."

Consequence: If the door appears to be locked, the door may be unintentionally opened, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left rear door lock, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in January 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

18V272000 · Suspension:Front

Reported: 2018-04-27 (April 27, 2018)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012-2014 ML350 Bluetec 4Matic and ML550 4Matic, 2012-2015 ML63 AMG 4Matic and ML350 4Matic, 2013-2016 GL350 Bluetec 4Matic, GL550 4Matic and GL63 AMG 4Matic, 2017 GLS350d 4Matic, GLS450 4Matic, GLS550 4Matic and GLS63 AMG 4Matic, 2015 ML400 4Matic, 2016 GLE400 4Matic, GLE350 4Matic, GLE63 AMG 4Matic, GLE63S AMG 4Matic, GLE450 4Matic Coupe and GLE63S AMG 4Matic Coupe, 2015-2016 GL450 4Matic and 2013-2014 GL450 4Matic vehicles equipped with the Active Curve System (ACS). In certain driving conditions, if the oil level in the ACS reservoir is below the minimum level, the oil may foam and leak out of the vent holes in the reservoir cap.

Consequence: The leaking oil in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will correct the oil level as necessary and replace the reservoir sealing cap to prevent oil foam from leaking out, free of charge. The recall began August 30, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018070015.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

19V787000 · Communication

Reported: 2019-11-01 (November 1, 2019)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf

Consequence: An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

21V058000 · Communication: Auto Crash Notification | Electrical System:Software

Reported: 2021-02-05 (February 5, 2021)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

21V072000 · Communication: Auto Crash Notification | Communication

Reported: 2021-02-12 (February 12, 2021)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2019 C300, E300, 2018-2020 CLA250, 2020 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG GT53, GLE450, 2018 AMG E63, AMG GTA, 2017-2020 GLA250, GLC300, 2019 GLC350, AMG GLC43, 2017-2018 GLE350, 2019 AMG GLC 43, GLC350, GLE400, 2017 GLS450, S550, C300 Cabrio, and 2018-2019 S560 vehicles. On June 18, 2021, an additional 9 vehicles were added, including certain 2021 GLA250, GLC300, 2018 S450, E400, and 2017 CLA250 vehicles. The communication module might have been inadvertently deactivated during a service visit, which could have disabled the Emergency Call (eCall) function.

Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting emergency services through the call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the communication module and activate it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Letters for the owners of the 9 additional vehicles were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030005.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

22V365000 · Communication: Auto Crash Notification | Electrical System:Software

Reported: 2022-05-20 (May 20, 2022)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

NHTSA campaign record ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

35 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

40.0%Usable mileage14 / 35 records

100.0%Valid incident date35 / 35 records

100.0%Valid filing date35 / 35 records

100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates35 / 35 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

From model yearThrough model year

Component complaint heatmap
Component	2016	2017	2019	2020	2021
Electrical System	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	822.9% ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	1343.3% ODI 11465737 · 11,000 mi 2021 GLS 450 VIN # [VIN removed] Purch: Nov 26, 2022 UAG Fairfield Auto Group CM, LLC,DBA MERCEDES BENZ OF FAIRFIELD Odometer Date of Purchase 10,084 Odometer Currently *13,700 (onboard notification) TIMELINE: Total vehicle system fails while driving on highway lost engine, steering, power suddenly - stranded. November 27, 2021 Loud interference noise coming from MBUX screen, faulty graphics flashing, app not functioning. Extreme Loud “blower” noise coming from heater. Vehicle start would not work as the vehicle did not recognize key was in… Look up ODI 11465737 at NHTSA ↗
Unknown Or Other	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	720.0% ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 11322877 · 4,500 mi I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND MY WINDSHIELD EXPLODED. Look up ODI 11322877 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	826.7% ODI 11442482 The car would not start and could not be jumped. I'm told it's the 48V battery has to be replaced. I have seen on the internet numerous people have the same problem and that a large batch of these 48V batteries are the problem. Error message displays stop the vehicle and more details advises battery is malfunctioning and do not continue driving. Look up ODI 11442482 at NHTSA ↗
Engine	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	822.9% ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 11288497 · 13,000 mi DRIVING ON FREEWAY AT ̃75MPH TOWARD 202 W ARIZONA FREEWAY, DASHBOARD SHOWED A "ENGINE MALFUNCTION + 48 V BATTERY SEE OPERATOR'S MANUAL:. 1 MINUTE LATER ANOTHER ERROR ON SCREEN SAYING, COOLANT OFF TURN ENGINE OFF. THEN THE CAR LOST THE POWER IN THE MIDDLE LANE OFF FREEWAY. LUCKILY NO CARS BEHIND US. CAR IN SERVICE AT MERCEDES DEALER IN CHANDLER AZ Look up ODI 11288497 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	310.0% ODI 11465737 · 11,000 mi 2021 GLS 450 VIN # [VIN removed] Purch: Nov 26, 2022 UAG Fairfield Auto Group CM, LLC,DBA MERCEDES BENZ OF FAIRFIELD Odometer Date of Purchase 10,084 Odometer Currently *13,700 (onboard notification) TIMELINE: Total vehicle system fails while driving on highway lost engine, steering, power suddenly - stranded. November 27, 2021 Loud interference noise coming from MBUX screen, faulty graphics flashing, app not functioning. Extreme Loud “blower” noise coming from heater. Vehicle start would not work as the vehicle did not recognize key was in… Look up ODI 11465737 at NHTSA ↗
Exterior Lighting	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	617.1% ODI 11045036 THE STANDARD HEADLIGHTS ARE EXTREMELY DIM AND UNSUITABLE FOR NIGHTTIME DRIVING. THEY HAVE A BRIGHTNESS ROUGHLY EQUIVALENT TO PARKING LIGHTS. THIS IS A PROBLEM KNOWN TO MERCEDES ACCORDING TO MANY ONLINE BOARDS. MY VEHICLE IS UNSAFE FOR NIGHT DRIVING AND NEEDS TO BE RETROFITTED WITH SOME USABLE HEADLIGHTS. VISIBILITY IS ONLY ABOUT 10 FEET IN FRONT OF THE CAR WHICH IS UNACCEPTABLE FOR HIGHWAY DRIVING. Look up ODI 11045036 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Fuel/Propulsion System	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	514.3% ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	1100.0% ODI 11299513 · 1,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. THE CONTACT STATED SHE NOTICED A FUEL ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE WHEN THE WINDOWS WERE OPEN. THE CONTACT SOUGHT MEDICAL ATTENTION DUE TO BREATHING PROBLEMS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER ED HICKS IMPORTS LOCATED AT 3102 S PADRE ISLAND DR, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78415 [phone removed], WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THE FIRST TIME WITH A MELTING STICKER ON THE CADILLAC AND IT NEEDING TO BE REMOVED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED ON 12/21/2019, WHI… Look up ODI 11299513 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Seats	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	25.7% ODI 10865047 HEADRESTS IN THE 2ND ROW ARE UNSAFE, IN THE UP POSITION IT HAS NO PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN OR ADULTS, IN THE DOWN POSITION IT PUSHES THE NECK AND HEAD OF ALL PASSENGERS FORWARD. Look up ODI 10865047 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	26.7% ODI 11610699 1. Unknown, smoke started coming from under the passenger side seat, car is a complete loss. 2. Smoke damaged my lungs, there was a large amount of exploding glass, and it could have led to a structure fire. 3. Not applicable 4. In process, but it was recalled for this issue 5. No Look up ODI 11610699 at NHTSA ↗
Steering	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	411.4% ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Fuel System, Gasoline	0Unavailable No examples available for this selection.	12.9% ODI 11196350 2017 MERCEDES BENZ GLS450. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO MALFUNCTIONING BRAKES. LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED PREMATURE WEAR OF THE BRAKES. THE VEHICLE LEAKED FUEL. THE INTERIOR DOOR TRIM WAS NOT SECURE. JS Look up ODI 11196350 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 11390663 · 15,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2019 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD HOWEVER, MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT SOUGHT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT AUTO BODY SHOP. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DEEM… Look up ODI 11390663 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	13.3% ODI 11548412 The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact received notification of 23V445000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time to for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recall. Look up ODI 11548412 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
Component	Mileage range (25th–75th percentile)	Median	Usable records	Examples
Electrical System	Too few reports for a range	22,950 mi	4 (sparse)	ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11183628 · 5,900 mi AFTER OWNING THE VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN 2 YEARS, THE REAR TAILGATE OPENED BY ITSELF 3 TIMES IN 8 DAYS. THE FIRST TIME, THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN OUR HOME GARAGE. THE SECOND TIME, WE WERE TRAVELING ON A CITIY STREET WHEN THE TAILGATE JUST POPPED OPEN ON ITS OWN. THE THIRD TIME, WHEN EXITING A PARKING GARAGE WITH A LOW ROOF, IT OPENED BY ITSELF, STRIKING THE LOW OVERHANG IN THE GARAGE. THIS TIME, THE GLASS WAS BROKEN AND THE BODY DAMAGED. THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE SECOND INCIDENT, THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AT … Look up ODI 11183628 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11191265 · 40,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, IT CAUGHT FIRE. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CUP HOLDER AND ARMREST CONSOLE WERE HOT. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER IN THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED, TOWED, AND QUARANTINED AT THE INSURANCE COMPANY'S IMPOUND LOT. VALLEY IMPORTS (LOCATED AT 402 40TH ST S, FARGO, ND 58103, [phone removed]) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED O… Look up ODI 11191265 at NHTSA ↗
Engine	Too few reports for a range	40,000 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11191265 · 40,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, IT CAUGHT FIRE. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CUP HOLDER AND ARMREST CONSOLE WERE HOT. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER IN THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED, TOWED, AND QUARANTINED AT THE INSURANCE COMPANY'S IMPOUND LOT. VALLEY IMPORTS (LOCATED AT 402 40TH ST S, FARGO, ND 58103, [phone removed]) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED O… Look up ODI 11191265 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11324007 · 56,000 mi I DROVE UP AND DOWN THE WESTERN UNITED STATES ON HIGHWAYS AND CITY STREETS. I DROVE 16 HOURS A DAY FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK. I RECEIVED A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WITH A WARNING THAT THERE WAS A SMALL EVAP LEAK. AFTER BEING SERVICED THIS WARNING DID NOT APPEAR AGAIN. I BELIEVE THE THRESHOLDS WERE UPDATED TO IGNORE SMALL EVAP LEAKS. AROUND OCTOBER 28, 2019, I NOTICED THE FLOOR BOARD OF MY VEHICLE OVERHEATING. I ALSO DETECTED MORE EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CABIN. I BELIEVE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ARE LESS EFFECTIVE AND A BLOCKAGE IS CAUSING MORE E… Look up ODI 11324007 at NHTSA ↗
Unknown Or Other	Too few reports for a range	12,657 mi	4 (sparse)	ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 10981584 · 13,000 mi REAR WINDOW FRACTURED WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WITH NO OTHER CARS AROUND OR PEOPLE. OCCURRED ON A COUNTY ROAD. Look up ODI 10981584 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11230308 · 12,314 mi 2017 MERCEDES BENZ GLS 450 4MATIC PURCHASED SEPTEMBER 2016. RETURNED VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP 6 (SIX) TIMES FOR FOUL SMELL COMING FROM AIR CONDITIONING UNIT. FOUL, MOLDY SMELL STILL REMAINS. DEALER HAS CHANGED MULTIPLE PARTS, CLEANED THE A SYSTEM AND REPLACED DUST AND FINE PARTICLE FILTER EACH TIME. THE SMELL ALWAYS COMES BACK. DEVELOPED A RECURRING COUGH BECAUSE OF SMELL. AFTER CALLING A LAWYER I FOUND OUT THAT THERE IS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT REGARDING MULTIPLE MERCEDES BENZ MODELS INCLUDING THE 2017 GLS450. Look up ODI 11230308 at NHTSA ↗
Exterior Lighting	Too few reports for a range	41,097 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 11079108 · 13,000 mi MY 2017 MERCEDES BENZ GLS 450 HAS STANDARD HALOGEN LIGHTING FROM THE FACTORY. IT HAS VERY POOR VISIBILITY IN RAINY,FOG CONDITIONS. ALSO VERY POOR VISIBILITY IN URBAN AREAS WHERE THERE IS PARTIAL STREET LIGHTING. THE LOW BEAN HEADLIGHTS ARE TOO DIM TO SEE INFRONT OF VEHICLE. THIS IS VERY BIG SUV AND FEEL IT IS SAFETY HAZARD TO DRIVE WITH THE STANDARD LIGHTING. Look up ODI 11079108 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11298065 · 41,097 mi HEADLIGHTS ARE NOT SAFE. FOWARD VISIBILITY IS VERY POOR. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE DRIVEN AT NIGHT ESPECIALLY IN POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS. Look up ODI 11298065 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11710906 · 135,500 mi The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact heard an abnormal humming sound when the vehicle was started, and the humming sound grew louder over time. The contact believed that the humming sound was coming from the driver's side headlamp. The contact stated that the headlamp was equipped with a small internal fan to dissipate heat. Additionally, other electrical failures were occurring, and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the blower motor had failed and needed to be rep… Look up ODI 11710906 at NHTSA ↗
Steering	Too few reports for a range	8,500 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11048747 · 8,500 mi WHEN IN DISTRONIC+ WHICH INCLUDES LANE KEEPING ASSIST, MY CAR SWERVES SHARPLY OUT OF ITS LANE FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHICH, WHILE INFREQUENT, COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR TO THE LOCAL DEALER RESULTING IN NO CAUSE IDENTIFICATION AND HAVE PROVIDED AN EMAIL TO MERCEDES CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH NO RESPONSE YET. I PREVIOUSLY SPOKE TO MERCEDES CUSTOMER SERVICE ON THE PHONE AND THEY SUGGESTED TAKING IT BACK TO THE DEALER. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP IN ADDRESSING THIS MATTER. THE DATE I SELECTED BELOW THE LAST TIME THE PROBLEM OCCURRED ON US 19… Look up ODI 11048747 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11529734 · 29,210 mi The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle after driving in a rainstorm, the power steering malfunction message was displayed. While driving approximately 70 MPH, the power steering became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure was due to the electronic power steering rack. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V241000 (Steering). The manufacturer was contacted and notifie… Look up ODI 11529734 at NHTSA ↗
Power Train	Too few reports for a range	1,150 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 10896957 · 1,150 mi REAR DIFFERENTIAL AXLE SEALS WERE DISTORTED, CAUSING FLUID TO LEAD OUT. THE SEALS APPEAR TO HAVE BEEN INSTALLED INCORRECTLY WHEN THE CAR WAS MANUFACTURED. SEALS HAVE BEEN REPLACED PRIOR TO ANY ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE OR DRIVE TRAIN. DEALER REPLACED SEAL QUICKLY AND PROMPTLY. DEALERSHIP WAS A PLEASURE TO DEAL WITH. Look up ODI 10896957 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

ComponentPeriod

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples

Monthly complaint and recall timeline
Month	Complaints	Campaigns announced	Examples
2024-11	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2024-12	1	None	ODI 11628461 This is the 2nd time within a year my airmatic suspension system has went out while driving and I have lost control of driving my vehicle. I have paid 3900 to have the problem repaired it has not been a year and the same issue has happened. Faulty dangerous suspension system airbag suspension is dangerous and faulty. Look up ODI 11628461 at NHTSA ↗
2025-01	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-02	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-03	1	None	ODI 11646348 Vehicle check engine light came on early August 2024. Vehicle was brought in for service and checked for codes. B1F4500 Battery has excessive resistance B21059A The operating conditions of component have not been satisfied. Battery was replaced and rechecked. Po4427A Evap leak detected P04F000 Charcoal canister has a malfunction Smoke tested EVAP system to see if there was any leaks and tested the valves to make sure EVAP system was working correctly. Charcoal canister not actuating correctly so was replaced and checked. Gas cap also rep… Look up ODI 11646348 at NHTSA ↗
2025-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-05	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-06	1	None	ODI 11666914 Vehicle Information: Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: GLS 450 Year: 2017 Component: Visibility/Sunroof/Panoramic Glass Roof VIN: [XXX] Incident Date: [XXX] Complaint Summary: I am filing this complaint regarding a serious and dangerous safety defect in my 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450. Without warning and while driving, the panoramic glass sunroof suddenly shattered and exploded, sending glass shards and debris into the vehicle cabin. My two young children were seated inside at the time, and glass pieces fell directly onto them, causing extreme distres… Look up ODI 11666914 at NHTSA ↗
2025-07	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-08	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-10	2	None	ODI 11693202 On July 23, 2025, I drove my Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 to a medical appointment. After arriving, I parked near the valet station, turned off the car, and went inside to check in at LabCorp. Within two minutes, witnesses reported black smoke from the hood , followed by a violent explosion that shook the office building and triggered a multi-unit response from local fire and police departments. When I came downstairs, my vehicle was engulfed in flames. The front end was completely destroyed. Mercedes-Benz USA sent an investigator on September 8, 202… Look up ODI 11693202 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11695525 My 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 is experiencing serious and unpredictable transmission behavior related to the valve body and shifting mechanism. The transmission sometimes fails to engage Park, shifts on its own without driver input or attempts to engage Reverse unexpectedly. On multiple occasions the vehicle has moved or rolled after being placed in Park and once it appeared to shift itself toward Reverse. This behavior is a clear safety risk as the vehicle can suddenly lose control or move unexpectedly. It happens intermittently, without any … Look up ODI 11695525 at NHTSA ↗
2025-11	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-12	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-01	2	None	ODI 11710906 · 135,500 mi The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact heard an abnormal humming sound when the vehicle was started, and the humming sound grew louder over time. The contact believed that the humming sound was coming from the driver's side headlamp. The contact stated that the headlamp was equipped with a small internal fan to dissipate heat. Additionally, other electrical failures were occurring, and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the blower motor had failed and needed to be rep… Look up ODI 11710906 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11713114 Car did not brake when going about 5-7mph and crashed into another car. Look up ODI 11713114 at NHTSA ↗
2026-02	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-03	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-05	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-06	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-07	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-08	1	None	ODI 11760731 On 8/20/2026 I had a vacuum leak from the intake manifold and crankcase hoses repaired at a Vic's Bimmer Shop in the city of Lancaster California. This included the replacement of the oil separator breather on the engine. I drove my Mercedes Benz 2017 GLS450 less than 100 miles and the engine lost power and suddenly turned off. I was able to pull off onto the side of the freeway and then I saw smoke coming from under the hood and my wife and I exited the vehicle, called the fire department and the car burned completed on the side of the freeway… Look up ODI 11760731 at NHTSA ↗
2026-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-10 (partial)	0	None	No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Observation windowFirst model yearSecond model year

2020: 0 complaints · 2021: 20 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model year	Through age 0	Through age 1	Through age 2
2020	0	0	0
2021	4	14	20

Date coverage across each selected cohort

Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
Year	Incident dates used	Filing date fallbacks	Excluded dates
2020	0	0	1
2021	30	0	0

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
Component	Electrical System	Engine	Unknown Or Other	Exterior Lighting	Fuel/Propulsion System	Steering	Power Train	Seats
Electrical System	—	5 ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11191265 · 40,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, IT CAUGHT FIRE. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CUP HOLDER AND ARMREST CONSOLE WERE HOT. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER IN THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED, TOWED, AND QUARANTINED AT THE INSURANCE COMPANY'S IMPOUND LOT. VALLEY IMPORTS (LOCATED AT 402 40TH ST S, FARGO, ND 58103, [phone removed]) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED O… Look up ODI 11191265 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11710906 · 135,500 mi The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact heard an abnormal humming sound when the vehicle was started, and the humming sound grew louder over time. The contact believed that the humming sound was coming from the driver's side headlamp. The contact stated that the headlamp was equipped with a small internal fan to dissipate heat. Additionally, other electrical failures were occurring, and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the blower motor had failed and needed to be rep… Look up ODI 11710906 at NHTSA ↗	3 ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11513006 Car destroyed by fire on March 19, 2023 while at a quick stop near Chickasaw, OK. Car was last serviced by Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City in December 2022. No personal injuries just a total loss of the vehicle. Cause of the fire at present is unknown. Pictures are available. Look up ODI 11513006 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11619840 Fire started in the Engine and consumed the entire vehicle in less than 5 minutes Look up ODI 11619840 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	0	0
Engine	5 ODI 10934831 · 1,000 mi VEHICLE IS ONLY 3 WEEKS OLD. A FAULTY ENGINE WIRE HARNESS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CEASE OPERATING IN TRAFFIC AND PUT MY FAMILY IN A POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING SITUATION. MERCEDES DID NOT REPLACE BUT ONLY "REPAIRED" THE WIRE, WHICH WE WERE TOLD WAS NOT ASSEMBLED CORRECTLY AND WAS PINCHED IN A BRACKET AND SUBSEQUENTLY CHAFED, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY STILL CAUSE A LIFE THREATENING ENGINE MALFUNCTION DURING NORMAL OPERATION. MERCEDES IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE ENGINE HARNESS WIRE, NOR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I FEAR FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. Look up ODI 10934831 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11191265 · 40,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ GLS450. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS, IT CAUGHT FIRE. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CUP HOLDER AND ARMREST CONSOLE WERE HOT. THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER IN THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED, TOWED, AND QUARANTINED AT THE INSURANCE COMPANY'S IMPOUND LOT. VALLEY IMPORTS (LOCATED AT 402 40TH ST S, FARGO, ND 58103, [phone removed]) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED O… Look up ODI 11191265 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗	—	0	0	4 ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11513006 Car destroyed by fire on March 19, 2023 while at a quick stop near Chickasaw, OK. Car was last serviced by Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City in December 2022. No personal injuries just a total loss of the vehicle. Cause of the fire at present is unknown. Pictures are available. Look up ODI 11513006 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11619840 Fire started in the Engine and consumed the entire vehicle in less than 5 minutes Look up ODI 11619840 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	0
Unknown Or Other	1 ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	0	—	0	0	2 ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	0	0
Exterior Lighting	1 ODI 11710906 · 135,500 mi The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact heard an abnormal humming sound when the vehicle was started, and the humming sound grew louder over time. The contact believed that the humming sound was coming from the driver's side headlamp. The contact stated that the headlamp was equipped with a small internal fan to dissipate heat. Additionally, other electrical failures were occurring, and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the blower motor had failed and needed to be rep… Look up ODI 11710906 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	—	0	0	0	0
Fuel/Propulsion System	3 ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11513006 Car destroyed by fire on March 19, 2023 while at a quick stop near Chickasaw, OK. Car was last serviced by Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City in December 2022. No personal injuries just a total loss of the vehicle. Cause of the fire at present is unknown. Pictures are available. Look up ODI 11513006 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11619840 Fire started in the Engine and consumed the entire vehicle in less than 5 minutes Look up ODI 11619840 at NHTSA ↗	4 ODI 11452172 Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th… Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11513006 Car destroyed by fire on March 19, 2023 while at a quick stop near Chickasaw, OK. Car was last serviced by Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City in December 2022. No personal injuries just a total loss of the vehicle. Cause of the fire at present is unknown. Pictures are available. Look up ODI 11513006 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11619840 Fire started in the Engine and consumed the entire vehicle in less than 5 minutes Look up ODI 11619840 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	—	0	0	0
Steering	1 ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	0	2 ODI 10969872 · 1,750 mi WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE TURNER TURNPIKE (BETWEEN TULSA AND OKC, AROUND 70-75MPH)THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING HAS SWERVED LEFT AND RIGHT ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE ACTION FELT AS IF THE HAND OF GOD WAS THROWING US LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. THE CAR HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN. THEN THE LAST TIME THAT I DROVE THE CAR IT SUDDENLY YANKED ME OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT WARNING, LITERALLY TRYING TO KILL US. THIS LAST INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR HAD AROUND 1,750 MILES ON IT. THE THING IS DANGEROUS! I NOW OWN A CAR THAT I CAN'T PUT MY FAMILY IN AND SHOULD… Look up ODI 10969872 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11156582 ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU… Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	—	0	0
Power Train	0	0	0	0	0	0	—	0
Seats	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

Search patterns

3 patterns with matching reports.

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

5 mentions · 14.3% of complaints

Median mileage: 56,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11156582

ON FRIDAY 11/30 MY 2017 MERCEDES GL450 SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION THAT LED TO A) NO ABILITY TO GET CAR OUT OF DRIVE (E.G. WOULDN'T PARK, REVERSE, COULDN'T TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE), B) NO ABILITY TO TURN CAR OFF, C) POWER STEERING WENT OUT, D) AIRBAGS FLAGGED AS INACTIVE, E) MOST ALL MY DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON INCLUDING ONE THAT SAID "MALFUNCTION", F) MY DASHBOARD GAUGES FAILED (E.G. NO WORKING ODOMETER), G) THE REAR HATCH COULDN'T OPEN. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING MY FAMILY -- INCLUDING 2 YOUNG CHILDREN -- THROU…

Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11324007 · 56,000 mi

I DROVE UP AND DOWN THE WESTERN UNITED STATES ON HIGHWAYS AND CITY STREETS. I DROVE 16 HOURS A DAY FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK. I RECEIVED A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WITH A WARNING THAT THERE WAS A SMALL EVAP LEAK. AFTER BEING SERVICED THIS WARNING DID NOT APPEAR AGAIN. I BELIEVE THE THRESHOLDS WERE UPDATED TO IGNORE SMALL EVAP LEAKS. AROUND OCTOBER 28, 2019, I NOTICED THE FLOOR BOARD OF MY VEHICLE OVERHEATING. I ALSO DETECTED MORE EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CABIN. I BELIEVE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ARE LESS EFFECTIVE AND A BLOCKAGE IS CAUSING MORE E…

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ODI 11452172

Our car, Mercedes GLS 450, caught on fire after pulled into the garage from a short drive on local streets, which resulted a total loss on our house. After pulling into the garage, the home link didn't work when tried to use it to close the garage door. Upon coming out of the car, smoke came out from under the hood and soon after it became flame. We attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher as it appeared with hood still closed and fire immediately came back. By the time the firefighters came, there was a full fledged fire. Th…

Look up ODI 11452172 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule

\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Steering assistance concerns

2 mentions · 5.7% of complaints

Median mileage: 29,210 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11156582

Look up ODI 11156582 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11529734 · 29,210 mi

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle after driving in a rainstorm, the power steering malfunction message was displayed. While driving approximately 70 MPH, the power steering became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure was due to the electronic power steering rack. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V241000 (Steering). The manufacturer was contacted and notifie…

Look up ODI 11529734 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule

\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Stalling or loss of power

1 mentions · 2.9% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11760731

On 8/20/2026 I had a vacuum leak from the intake manifold and crankcase hoses repaired at a Vic's Bimmer Shop in the city of Lancaster California. This included the replacement of the oil separator breather on the engine. I drove my Mercedes Benz 2017 GLS450 less than 100 miles and the engine lost power and suddenly turned off. I was able to pull off onto the side of the freeway and then I saw smoke coming from under the hood and my wife and I exited the vehicle, called the fire department and the car burned completed on the side of the freeway…

Look up ODI 11760731 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule

\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b