Problems owners report
Complaints filed with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G 550, by the system named in each complaint. One complaint can name several.
- Electrical system4
- Engine3
- Fuel/propulsion system2
- Seat belts1
- Suspension1
- Vehicle speed control1
- Air bags1
- Service brakes1
- Forward collision avoidance1
NHTSA ODI complaints (public domain) · updated 23 Oct 2026 · 15 injuries and 0 deaths reported
Compared with other years
20192021
NHTSA ODI complaints by model year
Fuel consumption
Official Canadian test results for 1 variant: combined 13.1 L/100 km (about 18 mpg US), CO₂ 307 g/km.
| Variant | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| G 550 SUV · Sport utility vehicle: Standard · Premium gasoline | 13.6 | 12.4 | 13.1 |
Litres per 100 km. Natural Resources Canada, Fuel consumption ratings (open.canada.ca) · Open Government Licence – Canada
Recalls
24V659000 · Latches/locks/linkages9 Sept 2024 · 134 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2023 G 550 and 2019-2022 G63 AMG vehicles that received a replacement door latch during a service visit or prior recall repair. Components within the right-side rear door latch may prevent the rear doors from latching or opening properly.
23V445000 · Fuel system, gasoline26 Jun 2023 · 143,551 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.
23V097000 · Electrical system17 Feb 2023 · 26,116 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 G550 and AMG G63 vehicles. The front axle wiring harness may chafe against an oil cooler and become damaged, which can cause a loss of anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC).
22V365000 · Communication20 May 2022 · 242,722 vehicles
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.
21V483000 · Seat belts25 Jun 2021 · 4,917 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 G550, AMG G63, E350, E450, AMG CLS53, AMG E53, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, AMG GT63, 2021-2022 CLS450, and AMG E63 vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
21V353000 · Latches/locks/linkages14 May 2021 · 17,800 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 G550 and G63 AMG vehicles. Components within the door latch may prevent the rear doors from latching or opening properly.
21V230000 · Seats1 Apr 2021 · 8,634 vehicles
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLC, CLS, AMG GT 4-door Coupe and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. A faulty electrical contact within the seat position switch may prevent the driver and passenger air bags and seat belt force limiters from properly activating during a crash.
Whether a recall was fixed on a particular car is known only to the manufacturer: check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
NHTSA recalls · summaries in NHTSA's own words
Service bulletins
What Mercedes-Benz told its dealers about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G 550: known faults, fixes and updates.
| Bulletin | Summary |
|---|---|
| 11010970 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY21-25 C-Class, CLA, EQB, EQE, EQS, G-Class, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, GT, S-Class, and SL (206, 118, 243, 294, 296, 465, 247, 254, 167, 192, 223, and 232 platform) vehicles, the MBUX multimedia system does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. The MBUX multimedia system control unit will receive an OTA software update. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customers vehicle free of charge and do n |
| 11010964 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that the software for the engine control unit in the subject vehicles may not meet current specifications. As a result, the diagnosis for monitoring the air fuel ratio might not be activated in low load operation as intended. Consequently, this may not meet local regulatory requirements for on-board diagnostics and/or exhaust gas emissions. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the Engine Control Unit software in the affected vehicles. |
| 11010818 | Complaint Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (fully integrated transmission control unit (VGS)) not listed in quick test and/or no communication possible with VGS. Cause Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 Remedy It is important that LI54.15-P-057373 is processed before replacing any component parts (transmission 722.9). After processing and complying with the above documents, perform a reset on the transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (VGS) (ignition reset), check that the transmission connector is seated correctly and inspect the PINs for concerns. If communication with the VGS cannot be established |
| 11010755 | Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see |
| 11010455 | Complaint Only vehicles with a variable transfer case are affected. Can be identified through control unit N45 or N15/7 in the quick test When accelerating with light load, vibrations or jolting sensation may come from the drivetrain Cause Modified oil quality of the transfer case over time Remedy Check initial quick test for faults in the following control units N45 - All-wheel drive (ARS) N127 - 'Drivetrain' (PTCU) control unit Y3/8 - Transmission control for 9-gear transmission (VGS) N3/10 - Engine electronics for combustion engine If faults are present, process them as per the guided test |
| 11010440 | Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz, has determined that on certain MY 2019-2021 G-Class (463 platform) vehicles, the engine control unit software does not correspond to current production specifications. It is therefore possible that on-board diagnostics and/or exhaust gas emissions requirements may not be fulfilled. MBUSA will conduct a service campaign. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will perform the ECU software update. |
| 11009122 | Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer l |
| 11008880 | Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see |
| 11008091 | Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protrudin |
| 11008072 | Complaint White plastic insert present on microphone assembly. See figure A for example. Cause The insert (breathable filter) is designed to be inside for dust protection and air flow control. Remedy Do not remove the breathable filter from the microphone assembly. This part is designed to be in the microphone and should remain in the vehicle. Note: If TIPS support is required for microphone symptoms please open a TIPS case and reference this LI. |
| 11008055 | Complaint Customer states check engine light is on. Cause Software needs to be updated. Remedy Please update the ME control unit software. The new software should include 1779021216 and or 1769036201. If neither of these numbers is present and an update is not available, check vedoc to see if the vehicle had one of these software numbers at one point. Assess the vehicle after the flash and if the complaint is remedied, release the vehicle. If the customer complaint is not remedied, process the vehicle via LI07.61-P-070707 and open a TIPS case with your findings. If the vehicle is already at th |
| 11008006 | Complaint "Active Distance Assist currently unavailable" and "Active Brake Assist functions currently limited" are shown on the instrument cluster during startup or while driving AND stored DTC in quick test U0416FE - "Implausible data were received from control unit Traction system" in A108/1 (Distronic). Cluster messages will remain and mentioned system functionality is limited until key is cycled. Cause Under investigation. Symptom may occur with one or a combination of the following: 1. Low battery health 2. Battery state of charge 3. Repeated short drive cycles. Cluster messages will reso |
| 11007974 | Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for cor |
| 11007965 | Complaint When unpacking vehicles with magno night black paint (code 056U) from the full transportation packaging, the paintwork may exhibit white stains/shades on the hood. These are mainly present on the hood, fenders and the bumpers. Cause Moisture ingress under the full transportation packaging can lead to it penetrating the fresh paint thereby causing it to swell up. Easily visible, white stains/shades on the paint surface would be the consequence. Remedy Carefully heat any prominent areas using a heat gun (up-to 900F, at distance of approx. 3-5 inches), it may be necessary to repeat this |
| 11007785 | Complaint Engine does not restart after ECO stop. All indicator lights come on in instrument cluster. Engine can be restarted normally with ignition switch. Fault codes P1CE200, P1D0500, or P1CDF00 may be stored in powertrain control unit N127. Cause ME control unit software Remedy Update software of ME control unit N3/10. New software part numbers A1779021216 A1779036201 |
| 11007753 | Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an eng |
| 11007728 | Complaint To insure vehicle down time is kept at a minimum and all required information is available when case is escalated, as well as assist technicians with checks that may help lead in resolving issue without case creation. THIS LI IS NOT TO BE USED AS A REASON FOR CASE CREATION BUT AS A GUIDE IF A CASE IS NEEDED Cause There are, at times, additional steps workshops can do to help diagnose and rectify transmission complaints. Remedy When opening a case for transmissions a EEPROM, Quick Test, and VGS CUL are absolutely necessary Please also check for any relevant LIs before opening case. Al |
| 11007673 | Complaint Damage or discoloration to paint protection films on vehicle. Cause Chip protection films are a wear item that may need to be replaced over the life of the vehicle. They are typically not covered by vehicle warranty. Remedy To properly install a paint/chip protection film, please follow the below guidelines: #1 - Utilize a solution that is 0.2% soap solution (1,000ml of water + 2ml of liquid soap). #2 - Clean the paint surface and ensure it is dust-free. #2a - When cleaning, you can utilize isopropyl alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol) to assist with cleaning. #2b - We recommend a lint-free ra |
| 11005344 | Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic / 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G-TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis. This ensures an automated diagnosis process. Cause As part of the on-going quality monitoring process and associated quality and damaged part appraisals, a high number of ineffective repairs have been discovered. Such ineffective repairs have a negative impact o |
| 11005331 | Complaint Only vehicles with a variable transfer case are affected. Can be identified through control unit N45 or N15/7 in the quick test When accelerating with light load, vibrations or jolting sensation may come from the drivetrain Cause Modified oil quality of the transfer case over time Remedy Check initial quick test for faults in the following control units N45 - All-wheel drive (ARS) N127 - 'Drivetrain' (PTCU) control unit Y3/8 - Transmission control for 9-gear transmission (VGS) N3/10 - Engine electronics for combustion engine If faults are present, process them as per the guided test |
| 11005294 | Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the ve |
| 11005240 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY 2020-2024 G-Class (463 platform) vehicles, the B-pillar certification label might not contain the vehicles rim size, tire size, and cold tire inflation pressure information as required by FMVSS 110 or FMVSS 120. In this case, relevant regulatory requirements might not be met. Mercedes-Benz believes this issue has no impact on vehicle safety. Mercedes-Benz intends to submit a petition to NHTSA for exemption from the notification and remedy requirements of 49 U.S.C. chapter 301, pursuant to 49 CFR Par |
| 11000624 | The customer complains of a check engine light (CEL) on. May also complain of the engine running roughly and/or a loss of power. Multiple Causes Remedy Please see the document "Remedy Instructions" in attachments. For MY19+ G63 there may be an alternate solution available. Please reference LI07.61-P-076755 before performing the steps in this LI. |
| 10249540 | Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY 2019-2023 A-Class, CLA, E-Class, G-Class, GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, and S-Class (177, 118, 238, 463, 247, 253, 167, and 222 platform) vehicles, the communication module system software does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. The communication module system will receive an OTA update to improve system stability and availability of Mercedes me services. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in t |
| 10249495 | Noises in the steering column area when steering. Under analysis. Check which area of the steering column the noises occur in. Do the noises tend to occur at the bottom in the driver footwell or do they tend to occur in the area of the steering column switch module (MRSM/SCCM)? If the noises occur in the area of the MRSM/SCCM, work through the following points: - Loosen screws of the MRSM/SCCM and steering wheel, re-align the MRSM/SCCM, and re-fasten the screws (see WIS). Sometimes there is stress at the MRSM/SCCM and noises occur. - If noises continue to occur, swap the MRSM/SCCM |
NHTSA manufacturer communications (public domain)