Problems owners report
Complaints filed with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, by the system named in each complaint. One complaint can name several.
- Electrical system9
- Engine7
- Unknown or other3
- Power train3
- Forward collision avoidance1
- Exterior lighting1
- Vehicle speed control1
- Visibility/wiper1
NHTSA ODI complaints (public domain) · updated 23 Oct 2026 · 0 injuries and 0 deaths reported
Compared with other years
NHTSA ODI complaints by model year
Recalls
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 GLE 350 and 2021-2022 GLE 450 vehicles. The front acceleration sensor's wiring harness may be routed incorrectly, which can prevent the front air bags from deploying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 GLE 350, 2020-2024 GLE 450, 2020-2023 GLS 580, GLE 580, 2019-2023 GLS 450, 2021-2023 Maybach GLS 600, AMG GLS 63, 2021-2024 AMG GLE 53, AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and AMG GLE 63 S vehicles. A 48-Volt ground connection under the passenger seat may not be secured properly, resulting in the ground connection overheating.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 vehicles. The transmission may not fully downshift in certain conditions, causing the engine to stall.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 GLE350 and GLE450 vehicles. A 12-Volt ground connection under the driver seat may not be secured properly, resulting in the ground connection overheating.
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.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLE350, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, 2021 AMG GLE53, AMG GLE63, Maybach GLS600, AMG GLS63, and 2020 GLE580 vehicles. The air conditioner drain hoses may have been incorrectly installed, causing water to drain into the passenger compartment.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 GLE350, GLE450, 2022 AMG GLE53, AMG GLE63, and GLS450 vehicles. The steering coupling locking screw may loosen and possibly detach from the steering gear, resulting in a loss of steering control.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 GLE350, GLE450, GLS450, 2021-2022 AMG GLE53, 2020-2021 GLE580, GLS580, and 2021 GLE400e, AMG GLS63, AMG GLE63 S, and Maybach GLS600 vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the rear door window trim bars may detach.
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.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 GLE450, GLS450, 2021-2022 AMG GLE53, 2020-2021 GLE580, GLS580, 2021 AMG GLE63, Maybach GLS600 and AMG GLS63 vehicles. A ground cable bolt for the 48V ground connection under the front passenger seat may not be secured properly, which can cause the electrical cable to overheat.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLE450 and AMG GLE53 vehicles. In the passenger-side footwell, the ground connection bolts for the electric heater may be improperly tightened.
Mercedes-Benz LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 C300, 2019-2020 A220, AMG C43, AMG C63, 2020 GLE580, GLB250, 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, 2021 AMG GLE63, and AMG GLE53 vehicles. The LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, and 2020 GLS450, GLE580, GLS580 vehicles. During certain evasive driving maneuvers, the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software may apply torque to one of the front wheels, pulling the vehicle to one side. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
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.
Mercedes-Benz AG USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLE53, AMG GLE63, 2020 GLE580, 2020-2021 GLE350 and GLE450 vehicles with 5 passenger seating. While buckling the seat belt, the middle seat belt buckle could be pushed down into the gap below the seat cushion. If the buckle can't be retrieved, the buckle latch will be inoperable and unable to restrain an occupant.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 CLA250, CLA250 4MATIC and CLA35 AMG 4MATIC, 2020-2021 GLE350, GLE350 4MATIC, GLE450 4MATIC, GLS450 4MATIC and GLS580 4MATIC and 2021 GLE53 AMG Coupe, GLE63S AMG 4MATIC, GLS63 AMG 4MATIC and Maybach GLS600 4MATIC vehicles. The instrument cluster software may deactivate the illumination of certain interior switches (switch bar, overhead control unit, steering wheel) if the hazard lights are turned on and the ignition switch is in the 'off' position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."
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 GLE 450: 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 |
| 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 |
| 11010744 | Complaint Engine cooling fan running for an extended time after switching off vehicle. Cause Optimized thermal management in latest PTCU software. Remedy This is a normal function in the latest PTCU software. Engine fan will operate for up to 20 minutes after ignition is switched off. Note: Repair work should only be performed if a clear malfunction is identified |
| 11010494 | 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 |
| 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 |
| 11010450 | Complaint When using the offroad display in the MBUX, the "Transparent hood" function cannot be activated using the camera symbol. Cause MBUX FUP5 software: E504.3 (A 297 904 97 00) E504.4 (A 297 904 03 01) Remedy Update of head unit A26/17 to the new software: E504.5 (A 297 904 09 01) |
| 11010438 | Complaint Customer complains about anti-theft alarm system triggering without obvious cause when the vehicle is parked and/or when entering the vehicle. All MFA2 and 167 derivates with code 882 may be affected. Cause This is caused by a sporadic loss of communication to the anti-theft alarm system [N26/6]. In many instances there are one or more FCs U110D87, U001988, U016787 stored in the control units anti-theft alarm system [N26/6] and/or signal acquisition and actuation module [N10] / [N10/6]. The alarm system memory may contain several alarm sources. Remedy Please process all following poi |
| 11010437 | Complaint Automatic window raising function of side window inoperative. Cause Denormalization of the window lifter system. Remedy Update the software in the affected door control unit (N69/x). This requires the door control unit (N69/x) to be commissioned. (Path: XENTRY -> Control units view -> DCU-XX (N69/x) -> Adaptations -> Commissioning) SW item numbers of the repair software: A1679023716 for the door control units on the front doors (N69/1 and N69/2) A1679023816 for the door control units on the rear doors (N69/3 and N69/4) |
| 11010435 | Complaint -Check engine light(MIL) is ON. -Current and stored fault code in DCCU and PTCU : P2E9873 The position sensor of the exterior socket flap of the vehicle socket (direct current) has an electrical fault. The actuator does not open. -Starting the vehicle or Charging the vehicle is normal without any issues. Cause Software in the "N116/5 - Direct current charge connection unit (DCCU)" control unit. Remedy SW remedy for N116/5(DC-Charging control unit box) is in progress. Once the software is available, update the software for N116/5 and perform SCN coding of N116/5 For this issue, the ve |
| 11009550 | Complaint Customer concern of Air Conditioning not cooling. Cause Possible refrigerant leak at the evaporator. Remedy Perform the following measures : Remedy 1 (Only applies to vehicles produced during or prior to June 2023) 1. Picture of the forming gas check being performed with RO that shows the VIN clearly in view. 2. Clear picture of VIN on B-pillar. 3. Ensure that the rest of the AC system has been thoroughly checked for leaks before condemning the evaporator. Remedy 2 (Applies to all 167's produced after June 2023) 1. Do NOT remove the expansion valve from the evaporator prior to being |
| 11009549 | Complaint Customer complains about anti-theft alarm system triggering without obvious cause when the vehicle is parked and/or when entering the vehicle. All MFA2 and 167 derivates with code 882 may be affected. Cause This is caused by a sporadic loss of communication to the anti-theft alarm system [N26/6]. In many instances there are one or more FCs U110D87, U001988, U016787 stored in the control units anti-theft alarm system [N26/6] and/or signal acquisition and actuation module [N10] / [N10/6]. The alarm system memory may contain several alarm sources. Remedy Please process all following poi |
| 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 |
| 11009036 | Complaint "Active Emergency Stop Assist Currently Unavailable" and "Active Steering Assist Inoperative" instrument cluster messages along with Tire Pressure Light on in Instrument Cluster. Cause Both systems are temporarily unavailable due to low tire pressures. An active tire pressure monitor light may result in some assistance features being temporarily unavailable until tire pressures are corrected. Remedy Check/adjust tire pressures and reset monitoring through the instrument cluster. |
| 11008882 | Complaint Customer concern of Air Conditioning not cooling. Cause Possible refrigerant leak at the evaporator. Remedy Perform the following measures : Remedy 1 (Only applies to vehicles produced during or prior to June 2023) 1. Picture of the forming gas check being performed with RO that shows the VIN clearly in view. 2. Clear picture of VIN on B-pillar. 3. Ensure that the rest of the AC system has been thoroughly checked for leaks before condemning the evaporator. Remedy 2 (Applies to all 167's produced after June 2023) 1. Initial Quick Test 2. Create a short video of the actual pressures vi |
| 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 |
| 11008093 | Complaint After clicking on the "Radio" selection function, the radio does not start and instead a permanent loading wheel is displayed. See attached picture for example. Cause Software version Remedy A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (Head unit) unit must be replaced. When the head unit is in this condition, a software update will not remedy the situation. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools a |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| 11007972 | Complaint After clicking on the "Radio" selection function, the radio does not start and instead a permanent loading wheel is displayed. See attached picture for example. Cause Software version Remedy A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system (Head unit) unit must be replaced. When the head unit is in this condition, a software update will not remedy the situation. |
| 11007969 | Complaint When using the offroad display in the MBUX, the "Transparent hood" function cannot be activated using the camera symbol. Cause MBUX FUP5 software: E504.3 (A 297 904 97 00) E504.4 (A 297 904 03 01) Remedy The remedy is currently being developed. |
| 11007956 | Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY 2020-2023 CLS (257 platform), E-Class (213 and 238 platform), GLE (167 platform), and AMG GT 4-Door (290 platform) vehicles, the engine control unit software does not correspond to current production specifications. As a consequence, the functionality of the post-catalyst oxygen sensor may be impaired due to increased thermal loading. MBUSA will conduct a service campaign. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the engine control unit software. |
| 11007858 | Complaint The "Easy entry and exit feature" function deactivates itself after a brief period. Cause The cause is currently being investigated. Remedy A remedy is currently not available. A software update in the seat control unit does not solve the problem. The document will be updated once the reason has been analyzed and a remedy is available. |
| 11007857 | Complaint Customer concern of Air Conditioning not cooling. Note: For vehicles produced during or prior to June 2023, a TIPS case is not necessary. However, parts from repairs on such vehicles may be requested back for analysis at the QEC. Therefore, please follow parts disposition in NetStar. Repairs where parts are not returned per parts disposition instructions, or parts found to be NTF (no trouble found) are subject to debit. ALL steps, with the exception of videos, should be documented and uploaded with the claim submission. Cause Possible refrigerant leak at the evaporator. Remedy Perfor |
NHTSA manufacturer communications (public domain)