2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
95
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
AIR BAGS
52 complaints
2011 MERCEDES BENZ GL550. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE UPON ARRIVAL TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR RECALL REPAIR TO BE COMPLETED. THE CONSUMER STATED IT WAS A 220 MILE DRIVE TO HAVE THE RECALL COMPLETED THE CONSUMER REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE BE PICKED UP AND RETURNED BY MERCEDES. *JS
Aug 19, 2019
STILL WAITING FOR DEFECTIVE TAKATA AIRBAG REPLACEMENT. HAVE TRIED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST COUPLE YEARS.
May 29, 2019
MERCEDES HAS NOT PROVIDED A RESOLUTION TO THE RECALL FOR SEVERAL YEARS.
May 24, 2019
I HAVE BEEN CALLING MERCEDES FOR GOING ON 3 YEARS ABOUT FIXING THIS RECALL ISSUE. I GET A LETTER PERIODICALLY PUSHING BACK MY PARTS AVAILABLE DATE. THE DEALERSHIP ALWAYS SAID THEY CANNOT PROVIDE ANY ESTIMATE ON WHEN THE PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. FINALLY, I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM VICE PRESIDENT OF CUSTOMER SERVICES CHRISTIAN TRIEBER DATED MARCH 2019 REGARDING THIS "URGENT-IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL 2019030018". IT STATES THAT PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AND TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT "IMMEDIATELY". I CALLED AND WAS PUT ON WHAT WAS PROBABLY A FAKE HOLD TO 'CHECK' PART AVAILABILITY, AND TOLD THE SAME THING I'VE BEEN TOLD TIME AFTER TIME WHICH IS THAT PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE AND NO TIME ESTIMATE CAN BE PROVIDED. THE LETTER STATES THAT "SAFETY IS OF UTMOST CONCERN TO MERCEDES BENZ", BUT THAT'S A BIT HARD TO BELIEVE AT THIS POINT. THIS HAS TO BE THE LONGEST TIME EVER TAKEN TO ADDRESS AS SERIOUS A SAFETY ISSUE AS THIS. CAN ANYTHING BE DONE? IS THERE NO ACCOUNTABILITY TO TAKE CARE OF THIS WITHING WHAT HAS ALREADY BEEN A RIDICULOUSLY UNREASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME? ACCORDING TO MERCEDES BENZ DEALERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO, THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN BE DONE BUT WAIT LONGER AND HOPE FOR THE BEST.
Apr 12, 2019
GOT THIS RECALL ISSUED 3 YEARS AGO,THE INFAMOUS TAKATA AIRBAG.CALLED THE DEALERS AROUND AGAIN AND AGAIN,THEY ARE SAYING NO PARTS AVAILABLE .ALWAYS THEY SAY IT S GONNA BE SOMEDAY IN THE NEAR FUTURE,NO SPECIFIC TIME OR DATES.DUE TO THE VITAL NATURE OF THIS ISSUE I CANT ACCEPT THEIR CANDOR AND LACK OF INTEREST .PLEASE CHECK AND ADVICE OF MY CONSUMER MODE TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE.THANK YOU
Mar 09, 2019
+ 47 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
7 complaints
Check Engine Light came on and took it to the mechanic who identified low compression on cylinder #3. The injector was replaced which did not fix the issue since the vehicle lags when first accelerating. We were also informed of a service bulletin that included the issue with our vehicle and to take the car to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who did not check the cylinder low compression/leakage issue because the check engine light wasn't on, which it would not be since it was recently serviced, and the number of miles required had not been driven for the check engine light to come back on. Even though the service bulletin is for the same make, model and years because our VIN was not included that there is no warranty on this vehicle. I now have a vehicle with an engine issue that should be included in the recall based on being the same make, model, year and mechanical issue.
Oct 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350. The contact stated that the dealer had previously serviced the vehicle under an unknown diesel emission recall; however, the failure occurred after the recall repair was performed with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine and ABS warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the ignition switch was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The dealer determined that the engine compartment fuse box needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,001.
Mar 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated continuously. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.
Jan 04, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed but failed to respond, causing the vehicle to decelerate. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact continued to drive the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the exhaust valve pressure sensor and catalytic converter had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer informed her that the failure was related to an unknown recall that would be issued in the 4th quarter of 2021. The dealer also advised the contact to continue to drive the vehicle in the meantime. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred several times while driving and the vehicle had been jerking each time it was about to come to a complete stop. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not provide any assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Dec 03, 2021
HAD A OIL CHANGE BY MERCEDES DEALER PARK MY TRUCK FOR A FEW WEEKS WHEN I DROVE IT I HAD A OIL LEAK. I CALL MERCEDES TO REPORT IT MERCEDES HAD IT TOW IN .THEY SAY IT WAS A OIL COOLER LEAK I ONLY HAVE 48,000 MILES DON'T DRIVE IT ALL THE TIME. DIDN'T HAVE A LEAK UNTIL THE OIL CHANGE NOW THEY WANT ME TO PAY FOR IT.I HAD THE TRUCK PARK IN MY GARAGE OIL WAS ON THE FLOOR IN MY GARAGE I DO HAVE PICTURES OF OIL ON THE FLOOR IN MY GARAGE AND AROUND THE ENGINE WHERE OIL IS COMING FROM.
Jan 16, 2017
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
6 complaints
WE WERE STOPPED AT A RED STOPLIGHT, OUT OF NOWHERE THERE WAS A LOUD EXPLOSION, SHOOK THE WHOLE CAR AND SANK, THE FEELING LIKE WE WERE IN A SINK HOLE OR LIKE A TIRE BLEW BUT THE TIRE WAS FINE. A LOYD HISSING SOUND ENSUED. THANK GOD, WE WERE AT A STOP LIGHT AND NOT IN A SPEED THAT COULD HAVE BEEN DEADLY.
Apr 05, 2021
MY 2011 GL450 MERCEDES SUV IS DRIVING SIDEWAYS ONE FRONT AND ONE BACK SUSPENSION AIRBAGS ARE NOT WORKING I FEEL LIKE MY CARE IS GOING TO FLIP OVER WHEN I TURN. THIS IS A HAZARDOUS PROBLEM. CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS A DEATHS NOT ONLY ON THE DRIVER BUT OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROAD
Sep 05, 2018
THE AIRMATIC SYSTEM EXPLODED WHILE THE CAR WAS AT THE MERCEDES BENZ DEALIER IN MODESTO, CALIFORNIA PARKED TO HAVE THE BREAKS REPAIRED .. ACCORDING TO THE DEALER THE CAR IS NO OPERABLE DUE TO ONE OF THE VARIOUS AIRMATIC CONTROLES EXPLODED WHILE PARKED WAITING BEING SERVICES. THE EXPLOSION WAS LOUD AND KEEPT THE CAR BOUNCING FOR A COUPLE MINUTES WHILE THE OTHER AIRMATIC CONTROLES WERE DEFLATING DUE TO THE EXPLOTION. MORE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE MERCEDES BENZ DEALER IN MODESTO CALIFORNIA SINCE THE EXPLO TION OCCURRED AT THEIR SHOP
Feb 04, 2018
MY FRONT AIR STRUTS, REAR AIR SPRINGS AND SHOCKS, SUSPENSION AIR COMPRESSOR, AND VALVE BLOCK WENT OUT AFTER OWNING THE VEHICLE FOR 4 MONTHS. I'VE GOTTEN ALL THOSE COMPONENTS REPLACED AND I AM STILL HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE SUSPENSION. MY CAR ROCKS FROM SIDE TO SIDE, LEANS ON THE LEFT SIDE WHILE DRIVING AND I CAN FEEL EVERY BUMP AND ROUGH SPOT IN THE ROAD.
Nov 21, 2017
GETTING MESSAGE " MALFUNCTIONING" AND COMPRESSOR COOLING DOWN EVEN THOUGH CHANGING FRONT STRUTS AND MAKING ROARING NOISE WHEN CAR IS IDLE, AND BURNT SMELL INSIDE CAR.
Oct 26, 2017
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). The contact stated that while reversing, the brake pedal was depressed with an abnormal hissing sound coming from the brake pedal. The contact stated that the sound was audible since the vehicle was purchased in 2019. The local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact received a vehicle compliance letter from the manufacturer, which stated that a mobile mechanic could be sent to the residence to inspect the vehicle, and the dealer would offer tow service. However, when the dealer was contacted, the dealer refused to assist the contact with the tow service or a mobile mechanic. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle remained at the residence and had not been driven due to the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.
Nov 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message for brake and traction control failure was intermittently displayed, causing the cruise control to disengage. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with ha ydraulic control unit failure. The contact was informed that the hydraulic control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact related the failure to two undisclosed recalls; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Aug 26, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Dec 12, 2024
The contact owned a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact stated that while driving and attempting to make a right turn, the vehicle failed to stop, which led him to rear-end a truck in front. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact sustained a fracture in the finger, and forehead injury caused by the impact with the steering wheel that required medical attention. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed, and the vehicle was deemed destroyed. The contact related the failure to the received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000. The VIN was invalid.
Jun 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Sep 13, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
- The hard brake lines from the going to the rear axle ruptured during light braking. The corroded sections have been removed and are available. - I had no indication of a problem until I went to stop the vehicle. I was able to slow the vehicle down but could not keep it from moving forward with out being in neutral. Had there been another car in front of me or in traffic, I would not of been able to stop. - The problem cannot be reproduced by a dealer, since the corroded and ruptured section of the lines had to be replaced. There has been no inspection of the issue since no accident occurred. - No warning lamps or any indication of a problem until the brake pedal was applied. Pedal was firm then suddenly went to the floor (repeatedly). Only until all the fluid drained from the reservoir did the "brake" light come on.
Mar 24, 2025
Brakes pipe lines
Sep 11, 2023
Brought this vehicle into Mercedes-Benz of Peoria, Peoria, IL. for routine maintenance on May 19, 2022. When I returned to pick up vehicle, I was informed of the Do Not Drive recall and was informed I could not drive my car. I was only offered a curtesy car for that night and then had to find my own rental car, which I have done, incurring $7,675.11 in rental charges through August 2022. I have received zero updates from Mercedes as to when they will fix this problem. I have also not received any reimbursement for my rental car expenses.
Nov 02, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond and went all the way to the floorboard. The contact then pumped the brake pedal until the vehicle responded. However, there was 20-foot stopping distance delay. The warning message "Brake Fluid Low" was displayed. The contact veered to the side of the road. The contact then noticed a trail of brake fluid on the ground. The contact was able to refill the brake fluid reservoir. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the brake fit knots, the brake fitting union, and brake fluid line were repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 129,748.
May 16, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
Intermittently car does not engage when key fob is inserted into eis (electric ignition switch) and turned. No dash lights turn on, car does not start. Car has turned off while driving. Car has remained running when key was removed. Key will lock and unlock doors and open hatch.
Apr 17, 2023
THE ELECTRONIC IGNITION SWITCH EITHER WON'T START THE ENGINE OR WILL FINALLY START AFTER A LONG DELAY OR AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS ARE MADE TO TURN THE KEY AND START THE ENGINE USING EITHER OF THE TWO ELECTRONIC KEYS. THE CAR HAS FAILED TO START CAUSING MY WIFE TO BE STRANDED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS AND POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM. MERCEDES HAS A SERVICE CAMPAIGN #2013040001 THAT APPLIES TO THIS VERY VEHICLE TO CORRECT THIS VERY PROBLEM BUT I WAS TOLD THAT MY VIN NUMBER HAS NOT BEEN INCLUDED FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. THIS IS CLEARLY A DEFECTIVE ELECTRONIC IGNITION SWITCH (EIS) PROBLEM WITH MOST OF THESE 2011 - 2012 VEHICLES AS ANY GOOGLE SEARCH WILL REVEAL.
Mar 03, 2017
STEERING
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES BENZ GL350. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 25 MPH AND NOTICED AN ABNORMAL GRINDING NOISE AS THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER THE STEERING SYSTEM COLUMN WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILURE LATER RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000.
Dec 30, 2013
MY HUSBAND WAS GOING ON HIS THIRD DEPLOYMENT, HE DID NOT WANT ME TO HAVE ANY CAR PROBLEM, SO WE SPENT ALMOST 70K FOR A BRAND NEW 2011 MERCEDES GL BLUE TECH. HOWEVER, LESS THAN 30 DAYS AND 1460 MILES, THE STEERING WHEEL QUIT WORKING DURING A TURN, IT ALMOST KILLED ME. I HAVE CONTACTED THE DEALER (VALLEY MOTOR MERCEDES, HUNT VALLEY , MD )AND THE MERCEDES, THEY COULD NOT EXPLAIN WHY THIS HAPPENED, THEY DO NOT CARE ABOUT MY SAFETY AND REFUSED TO REPLACE THE CAR. THEY DID NOT CARE THE FACT I WAS SCARED TO DEATH TO DRIVE THE CAR EITHER, THEY CHARGE SUCH HIGH PRICE FOR A JUNK CAR, AND REFUSED TO HOLD THE RESPONSIBILITY. SHAME ON THEM, MY HUSBAND PUT HIS LIFE ON THE LINE TO PROTECT THOSE KIND PEOPLE ! *TR
Sep 07, 2011
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I [XXX] own. The Mercedes Benz, it was in recall for the Air Bag, I took it to the Dealer at the Coral Gables Dealership of the Mercedes, 300 Almeria Ave, Coral Gables 33134. Phone (305)306-3549. and it was check. I was involved in an Accident on ([XXX]) went into a canal. 50 feet down, the Air Bag did not OPEN, the Brake did not brake properly the truck slip through the grass, and we end it in the Canal. I did not was advise the brake were in recall found out later on after the accident the GEIGO the insurance Company advise, but it was too late. I We were Born that Day my husband and me. I have picture of the accident; The check engine was on and off sometime like a year before or maybe more can't recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 31, 2024
PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact stated that while reversing, the message "Release Parking Brake" was displayed. The contact stated that she engaged the parking brake release button. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 284,000.
Nov 06, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
We smelled smoke from under the passenger seat. We had the car in for a recall and service recently and didn’t understand what was happening. Our three Children smelled the smoke too. Everyone exited the car and it burst into flames.
May 15, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL550. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked while accelerating. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, no failure was found. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V496000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
May 09, 2023
SEATS
1 complaint
Heated seat caught fire while driving
Jan 31, 2023
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
Malfunction with the air suspension. The vehicle is currently lowered and will not rise which is causing the tires to sit in a bent position and a horrible ride. The tires appear that they will detach from vehicle which is a safety risk for myself and others. After repairs from someone who presented themselves as a certified Mercedes’ mechanic, the issues still exist. The problems first existed about a year and a half ago, about 6 months after purchasing. I am making payments on a vehicle I am unable to safely drive or use for travel with my family. This should be a recall due to several vehicles jus in my area with same issues.
Jul 19, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL450. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WOULD TAKE NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS TO START THE IGNITION. NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. OPEN ROAD MERCEDES-BENZ (1250 US-22, BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP, NJ 08807 (908) 685-0800) DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. *AS CONSUMER STATED THE FAILURE ISSUE IS SAME AS NOTED BY MERCEDES BENZ IN THEIR SERVICE CAMPAIGN (HTTPS://TESTING-PUBLIC.CARMD.COM/TSB/DOWNLOAD/97801/218390). ON THE 3RD PAGE, THERE IS A REFERENCE TO THE 'GL' MODEL CARS AND THE YEAR, HOWEVER MY CAR WASN'T NOTED IN THAT CAMPAIGN, WHICH SHOULD'VE BEEN. I WENT THROUGH QUIET AN INCONVENIENCE AS A RESULT PERSONALLY AND MONETARILY BY M. BENZ'S FAILURE ACCURATELY INCLUDE MY VEHICLE AS PART OF THIS SERVICE CAMPAIGN. *JB
May 09, 2019
SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
RECALL THE AIR SUSPENSION BAGS KEEPS BUSTING ALSO I CAN'T TELL HOW MUCH GAS IN MY TANK I REPLACE THE BACK AIR SUSPENSION AIR BAG AND NOW THE FRONT HAS GONE OUT I ALSO REPLACE THE SUSPENSION LEVELING VALUE THE CAR BOUNCES WHEN DRIVING
Jul 30, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
DEAR LADY/GENTLEMAN GOOD MORNING I WAS DRIVING OUT FROM THE PARKING VERY SLOW. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT HAPPENED BUT FOR WHAT I KNOW CAR INCREASE SPEED RAPIDLY. I PUSH BRAKES BUT DOESN'T STOP AS A RESULT MY CAR HIT OTHER CARS IN PARKING. FOR WHAT I KNOW STEERING WAS LOCK. PLEASE CHECK IF MY CAR HAD ANY ELECTRONIC ATTACK . THANK YOU IN ADVANCE [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jun 12, 2018
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
TAKATA RECALL IF MERCEDES BENZ IS AWARE OF THIS RECALL HOW COME A YEAR LATER I HAVEN'T BEEN NOTIFIED OF THIS. THE RECALL STILL SHOWS NO REMEDY. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY AS THIS IS A FAMILY CAR AND I DRIVE MY YOUNG KIDS EVERYDAY AROUND IN THIS VEHICLE. MERCEDES SHOULD BE ASHAMED. I WANT THIS MATTER FIXED ASAP. CERTAIN MERCEDES-BENZ VEHICLES AND ONE FCA MODEL ARE EQUIPPED WITH DRIVER-SIDE FRONT AIRBAGS PROVIDED BY THE SUPPLIER TK HOLDINGS INC. ("TAKATA"). ON JANUARY 25, 2016 TAKATA FILED A DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT WITH NHTSA ANNOUNCING A POTENTIAL DEFECT IN SOME OF THE SUBJECT INFLATORS. BASED UPON TAKATA'S INFORMATION TO DATE, TAKATA IS AWARE OF FOUR TEST RUPTURES IN BALLISTIC TESTS OF NON-DESICCATED PSDI-5 INFLATORS. TAKATA IS NOT AWARE OF ANY FIELD INCIDENTS IN WHICH A PSDI-5 INFLATOR HAS RUPTURED, EITHER DESICCATED OR NON-DESICCATED. TAKATA IS TAKING THIS ACTION IN AN ABUNDANCE OF CAUTION, TO ADDRESS ALL OF THE SUBJECT NON-DESICCATED PSDI-5 AIR BAG INFLATORS, DUE TO THE SIMILARITIES OF DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING CHARACTERISTICS FOR THIS TYPE OF INFLATOR USED IN THE U.S. MARKET. DAG IS NOT AWARE OF ANY FIELD INCIDENTS WITH THE SUBJECT TAKATA PSDI-5 INFLATORS. HOWEVER, BASED ON THE INFORMATION ABOVE AND IN AN ABUNDANCE OF CAUTION, DAG WILL CONDUCT A VOLUNTARY RECALL OF THE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SUBJECT TAKATA PSDI-5 INFLATORS IN THE UNITED STATES AS IDENTIFIED BY TAKATA IN THE DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT. SAFETY RISK: ACCORDING TO TAKATA, IN THE EVENT OF AN INFLATORRUPTURE, METAL FRAGMENTS COULD PASS THROUGH THE AIR BAG CUSHION MATERIAL, WHICH MAY RESULTING INJURY OR DEATH TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS. REMEDY: ONCE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE CUSTOMERS WILL BE SENT A LETTER ASKING THEM TO GO TO AN AUTHORIZED MERCEDES BENZ DEALER WHO WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT AIRBAG OF THE POTENTIALLY AFFECTED VEHICLES RECALL STATUS: INCOMPLETE. REMEDY NOT YET AVAILABLE
Feb 01, 2017
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
THIS CAR WAS SOLD TO ME AS A CPO VEHICLE FROM MERCEDES BENZ OF GREENWICH WITH 32K MILES IN 2014. SINCE OWNERSHIP ALL AIRBAGS HAVE FAILED AND BEEN REPLACED EXCEPT THE RECALLED TAKATA STEERING WHEEL AIR BAG. THE CURTAIN AIR BAGS, REAR AIRBAGS ETC. ARE NOW ON THE SECOND REPLACEMENT. THE COMPUTER FAILED WHILE DRIVING AND THE DASHBOARD WENT COMPLETELY BLACK AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALERSHIP HAS TOLD ME THAT THIS YEAR VEHICLE HAS CONTINUAL PROBLEMS AND FAILURES. IT THE SOUND LIKE THE CAR SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED. I WAS TOLD TO SELL THE CAR PRIVATELY SINCE THE VALUE HAS PLUMMETED.
Jan 31, 2017
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
THE LEFT REAR PASSENGER SEAT BELT IS BROKEN. THE MECHANISM WILL NOT RETRACT. WHEN I SPOKE WITH THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP THEY SAID THEY HAVE BEEN SEEING THIS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS NOTHING THAT THEY CAN DO. THEY ONLY RESPOND TO RECALLS THAT NHTSA INITIATES. THEY WOULD NOT REPLACE THE BROKEN SEAT BELT FOR FREE, BECAUSE IT IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY ANYMORE EVEN THOUGH THE CAR ONLY HAS 37,000 MILES, BECAUSE IT IS 5 YEARS OLD, THE WARRANTY WAS 50,000 OR 4 YEARS, WHICHEVER CAME FIRST. WE PAID OVER $400 TO REPLACE THE SEATBELT BECAUSE THIS IS A DEFINITE SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDED TO BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY. WE HAVE PICTURES AND THE ORIGINAL PART IN OUR POSSESSION. WE KNOW THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL AND WE HOPE YOU CAN ISSUE A RECALL. THANK YOU.
Jul 16, 2016
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I BOUGHT A MERCEDES GL450 ABOUT A YEAR AGO, IS WELL TAKEN CARE OF EVER SINCE I GOT IT, ALSO THE REASON I PURSHASED THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE I'VE HEARD GOOD THINGS FROM MERCEDES " THAT IT'S SAFE AND A RELIABLE VEHICLE" . SO I THOUGHT AND I WOULD'VE NEVER IMAGINE THIS VEHICLE PUT ME MY FAMILY AND I AT RISK. STARTING WITH THE AIRBAG. THE SENSOR KEEPS ON TRIGGERING IT SO ITS MALFUNCTIONED. ALSO I HAVE AN ABS/ESP SENSOR ON AS WELL. SO AS I AM DRIVING THE CAR THE CAR SUDDENLY BRAKES FREQUENT, THERE'S TIMES THAT IT DOESN'T AT ALL AND THE BRAKE SYSTEM DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. HUGE RED FLAG!!! ON TOP OF THAT I HAVE A FUEL LEAK WHICH I NEVER TOUGHT IT WAS A LEAK, II SMELLED GAS ALL THE TIME AND LIVING BY A GAS STATION I WOULDVE NEVER THOUGHT IT WOULD BE MY CAR. YET THE SMELL FOLLOWED ME EVERYWHERE I WENT WITH THE CAR. SO WHEN I FINALLY LOOKED INTO IT, MIND YOU I NEVER DOUBTED THE MERCEDES BRAND, BUT WAS I WRONG AGAIN.... I HAVE A FUEL LEAK NOW ON TOP OF MY OTHER SAFETY CONCERNS... SCARY ESPECIALLY WITH MY KIDS ABOARD ALSO I HAVE DONE MORE INVESTIGATING ON THE ABS AND IT TELLS ME THAT ALSO MY CAR IS AT RISK OF SLIDING DOWN THE ROAD. THE CAR IS JUST SITTING ON MY DRIVEWAY.. THIS VEHICLE IS SO EXPENSIVE YET SO MANY PROBLEMS AND NONE OF THEM ARE MAINTENANCE ISSUES. I HAVE SPOKEN TO MERCEDES CORPORATE AND SAYS THERE IS NO RECALL ON MY CAR AND THEY CANT DO NOTHING ABOUT IT ALSO THAT MY CAR IS OLD IS PROBABLY A MAINTENANCE ISSUE. MERCEDES CANT EVEN STAND BEHIND THERE EXPENSIVE PRODUCT... WHAT ARE WE REALLY PAYING FOR ESPECIALLY WHEN ITS UNSAFE.... MY CAR CAN BLOW UP ANY MINUTE....!!!! THIS IS RIDICULOUS AND MIND YOU MY CAR ISNT THAT OLD. ITS A 2011!!!! I HAVE HAD A TOYOTA COROLLA THAT HASNT GAVE ME ANY ISSUES FOR OVER 10 YEARS.!! ITS UNACCEPTABLE AND THE FACT THAT MERCEDES CANT EVEN FIX MY ISSUE EVEN WITH A SAFETY HAZARD...!!! I DEMAND SOMETHING TO BE DONE AND AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.PLEASE HELP
Mar 18, 2016
SUSPENSION,WHEELS
1 complaint
WERE TOLD BY A MECHANIC AT BETTEN IMPORTS IN GRAND RAPIDS, MI, THAT THE SUSPENSION WAS STUCK IN THE 'LOW' POSITION, CAUSING THE TIRES TO BECOME CUPPED AND PITTED. AFTER KEEPING THE VEHICLE FOR ONE WEEK, BETTEN'S SERVICE MANAGER SAID THAT IT WAS BAD TIRES AND NOT THE SUSPENSION. ONLY ALL SEASON TIRES AVAILABLE FOR THIS BODY TYPE ARE NOT ADEQUATE FOR WINTER DRIVING, AND MAKE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE IN ANY PRECIPITATION HAZARDOUS. DRIVER HAD UPS DRIVER TRAINING EXPERIENCE, AS WELL AS, ON THE ROAD SALES DRIVING EXPERIENCE. VEHICLE BOUNCES AROUND THE ROAD AND TIRES BECOME CUPPED AND PITTED. DRIVER DID NOT HAVE THESE ISSUES WITH ANY PREVIOUS VEHICLE. HAD TO REPLACE THE TIRES THREE TIMES BEFORE 44000 MILES. WE ARE NOT SURE IF THIS IS REALLY AN ISSUE WITH THE TIRES, OR IF THERE IS A SUSPENSION ISSUE WITH THIS VEHICLE, SPECIFICALLY, OR THE MODEL OF THIS VEHICLE, IN GENERAL. VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE IN THE WINTER. *TR
Oct 30, 2013
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
IN LESS THAN 30 DAYS AND LESS THAN 1,500 MILES, THE BRAND NEW SUV'S STEERING WHEEL QUIT WORKING DURING THE TURN, THE BELT , THE PULLEY AND THE TENSIONER WERE BROKEN WITHOUT ANY WARNING. *KB
Oct 10, 2011
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES BENZ GLK350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH AND THE TURN SIGNAL WERE BOTH LOCATED ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL. WHENEVER HE ACTIVATED THE LEFT OF RIGHT TURN SIGNALS, HIS HAND WOULD HIT THE CRUISE CONTROL CAUSING IT TO ENGAGE INSTEAD OF THE TURN SIGNAL WHICH WAS A DESIGN FLAW. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED THAT WAY AND COULD NOT BE CHANGED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ALSO STATED THAT SINCE THE SWITCH WAS DESIGNED ON THE SAME SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL THEY COULD NOT BE CHANGED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000.
Jun 09, 2011
POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
I PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 2011 MERCEDES BENZ GL450 4MATIC LAST NIGHT. THE CAR HAS A KEYLESS GO SYSTEM. WHEN I WAS PULLING INTO MY DRIVEWAY WITH MY KIDS IN THE CAR THIS AFTERNOON I ACCIDENTALLY TURNED THE CAR OFF WITHOUT PUTTING THE CAR IN PARK AND BEGAN TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. I NOTICED THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACK DOWN MY DRIVEWAY. THE CAR NEVER WENT INTO PARK WHEN I TURNED IT OFF. RATHER IT WENT INTO NEUTRAL. I HAVE NEVER DRIVEN A CAR THAT DIDN'T GO INTO A PARK MODE WHEN THE ENGINE WAS TERMINATED. THANK GOODNESS A CHILD WASN'T PLAYING IN MY DRIVEWAY OR MY DOG WAS THERE. A CAR OF THIS SOPHISTICATION, TECHNOLOGY AND PRICE SHOULD HAVE SHIFTED INTO THE PARK MODE, NOT THE NEUTRAL MODE WHEN THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF EVEN IF THE CAR WASN'T PUT IN PARK. ADDITIONALLY, OF THAT IS HOW THE CAR WORKS, THEN I WOULD THINK THERE WOULD BE A SAFETY SWITCH N THE DRIVER'S SEAT THAT WOULD DISENGAGE THE GEAR WHEN I WENT TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. I AM TRULY CONCERNED FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AS WELL AS PARKED CARS WITH WHAT I BELIEVE TO BE A MAJOR DESIGN FLAW. *TR
Feb 02, 2011
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class have?
The 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class currently has 95 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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