2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
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110
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE
25 complaints
Cylinder head is defective and needs replacing. It is at the dealer for service at the tune of $7700. The car will not accelerate and sounds like it is in the wrong gear. Upon searching the Internet it seems like there are tons as in 1000’s of 2020, 2021 and 2023 Mercedes GLE 350s all having the same problem. There should be a recall as most cars are seeing this problem at 20,000 to 30,000 miles and at times when it is replaced, it turns around and happens again. Starting misfiring in October and continued to get worse.
Nov 24, 2025
Check engine light came on September 2025 and the initial diagnosis was for mixture formation (cylinder 3) is irregular. Issue with the GLE 350 years 2020 to 2022 (from what I saw online) is the engine has an issue with a faulty cylinder head. This issue while driving causes the car to shake. This faulty cylinder has been confirmed by the Mercedes Benz service shop.
Nov 05, 2025
Engine Cylinder Head Failure on CPO Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Vehicle Information: •Make: Mercedes-Benz •Model: GLE 350 •Year: 2020 •Mileage at time of issue: 90,000 Summary of Complaint: The vehicle experienced a premature cylinder head failure, resulting in significant engine damage and repair costs. There were no prior warning lights or diagnostic codes indicating a problem before the failure occurred. The malfunction caused sudden performance issues, including rough idling, misfiring, and loss of power. Details of the Incident: While operating the vehicle under normal driving conditions, the engine began to run roughly and lost power unexpectedly. Diagnostic testing revealed that the cylinder head had failed, which appears to be a mechanical or manufacturing defect rather than wear and tear. The repair estimate from the dealership was approximately $8,900, which is disproportionately high for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Safety Concerns: This type of failure could lead to sudden engine shutdown or loss of power while driving, posing a safety risk to occupants and other drivers on the road. Manufacturer Case Reference: This issue has also been reported to Mercedes-Benz under case number 18281587. Additional Information: After research, it appears that other Mercedes-Benz GLE owners have reported similar issues related to engine component failures, suggesting this may be a broader quality or manufacturing issue that warrants investigation. Requested Action: Requesting that NHTSA investigate potential defects in the engine or cylinder head assembly for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 and determine whether a recall or service bulletin is appropriate.
Oct 31, 2025
I am writing to express serious concern regarding a potentially dangerous mechanical issue with my Mercedes GLE 350. The vehicle has experienced a complete cylinder head failure, requiring an estimated $7,000 repair. Both an independent service center and an authorized Mercedes service center have confirmed this diagnosis. During the inspection process, Mercedes conducted two diagnostic tests—one costing $250 and a second costing $700—before determining that the cylinder head must be replaced. I was informed by the Mercedes service advisor that the company is aware this issue has affected other GLE 350 vehicles; however, no recall has been issued to date. This failure presents a significant safety risk. The vehicle suddenly loses power without warning, and acceleration becomes severely limited, often not exceeding 20–40 mph even when pressing the accelerator fully. The check engine light illuminates at the time of power loss, leaving the driver unable to maintain safe highway speeds or merge with traffic—posing a serious hazard to both the driver and others on the road. Given that this appears to be a known issue, I am requesting immediate review and investigation by Mercedes-Benz. A recall or formal service campaign should be considered to address this potentially dangerous defect and to ensure the safety of all affected drivers. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Oct 20, 2025
My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 experienced a complete engine seizure at approximately 60,000 miles without any warning signs. The vehicle shut down and would not restart. The engine is completely inoperable. I am aware of recalls involving engine stalling and fuel system issues in this model, and I believe this may be related to a broader defect. Mercedes-Benz has not offered support as of this writing.
Sep 10, 2025
+ 20 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
10 complaints
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that the vehicle started to display failures with the air conditioning system blowing hot air. The vehicle was taken for inspection at a local dealer, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing electrical failures due to water entering the footwells, with the check engine warning light remaining illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the air conditioning was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 44,000.
Sep 08, 2025
48V battery issue cause the car not able to drive.
Mar 24, 2025
There had been multiple incidents where the battery dies. We had issues where the vehicle would not start. We do not get any warning error message before this happens. We make sure all doors are closed and all lights are off. We’ve had to tow the vehicle multiple times when the battery fails. This has left us stranded on multiple occasions. In addition we have taken it for service at the Mercedes dealership and they state that there is nothing wrong with the battery or the vehicle. They have suggested to replace the battery in 2022. At the moment the vehicle does not turn on and we have to find other transportation options to get around.
Dec 12, 2024
Watch this report: [XXX] There was less than 1/2 a pound of refridgerant in my vehicle. The dealership - Mercedes Benz of Boerne inspected it. They extracted the refridgerant from the vehicle and hooked up leak system and monitor the gas to see if there is a leak and picked up in the center vent and the hose that goes to the vehicle's AC evaporator. There is a leak from the evaporator. This is a recurring problem that has popped up due to a recall in 2019: "The issue stems from air-conditioner drain hoses that may have been incorrectly installed, causing water to drain into the passenger compartment. Water intrusion into the footwells may cause corrosion or short circuits to electrical components, increasing the risk of fire. Furthermore, the emergency call feature may be disabled and the doors may not unlock, increasing the risk of injury. And as a final consequence, the engine may not start or may enter a limp-home mode, increasing the risk of a crash. To fix this potentially long-reaching issue, dealers will inspect and reinstall the drain hoses, as necessary, for free. Owner notification letters will be sent May 16, but those with further questions can contact Mercedes at 800-367-6372, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236, or visit its website to check their vehicle identification number and learn more." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jul 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air conditioner failed to operate. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the A/C evaporator and A/C receiver drier needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the issue was a known failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.
May 09, 2024
+ 5 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaints
This is a known issue with GLE 450 48v batteries over heating and causing loss of power and all function to control the vehicle. , For an unknown reason my vehicle was not part of a recent recall and probably should have been. I experienced the issue today and escaped tragedy. My battery light came on, then off, then a bright red battery light came on across the dashboard…then all of a sudden, my car lost all power with no warning. All while driving on the freeway 394! Luckily traffic was light and I was able to coast halfway up an off ramp. Then I got an overheating message. Reports show all cars were recalled, however mine wasn’t part of the recall!! I would like an investigation to include all cars in the years and models not just some of them.
Jul 19, 2024
I was turning on to a busy street and the throttle became unresponsive. I verified the car was in drive. There was no engine noise when pressing the accelerator pedal. I stopped the car and shifted to park and then back to drive and the car responded normally.
Oct 30, 2022
I SET THE DISTRONIC CRUISE CONTROL TO 45 MPH. IT SUDDENLY RESET ITSELF TO 70 MPH AND STARTED TO QUICKLY ACCELERATE TO 70 MPH WHILE SHOWING THE SPEED LIMIT TO BE 70 MPH WHEN THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT WAS 45 MPH. I RESET THE CRUISE CONTROL TO 45 MPH. WHEN THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT WENT TO 50 MPH, THE CAR QUICKLY STARTED ACCELERATING TO 80 MPH AND SHOWED THE SPEED LIMIT TO BE 80 MPH ON THE DASHBOARD DIGITAL DISPLAY. I QUICKLY SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES TO REGAIN CONTROL. I FINALLY FIGURED OUT THAT UNDER THE SQUARE SPEED LIMIT SIGN, WAS A ROUND KILOMETER SPEED LIMIT SIGN, AND MY CARS CAMERAS WERE ERRONEOUSLY READING THE KILOMETER SIGN AS A MPH SPEED LIMIT AND ADJUSTING THE CRUISE CONTROL TO THE WRONG, HIGHER SPEED. VERY DANGEROUS AS I ALMOST WENT THROUGH A RED LIGHT TRYING TO ADJUST THE SPEED DOWN USING THE STEERING WHEEL BUTTONS. I WAS CAUGHT OFF GUARD AND DIDN'T THINK TO DISENGAGE THE DISTRONIC CRUISE CONTROL. THIS HAPPENED TODAY ON BEN HILL GRIFFIN PKWY ABOUT 4 MILES SOUTH OF RSW (FORT MYERS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT) AS I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY TO THE AIRPORT. NOTE: MY CAR HAS THE MERCEDES DRIVER ASSISTANCE PACKAGE
Jul 05, 2020
THE PROBLEM HAPPENED ON A BUSINESS TRIP TO AND FROM KANSAS CITY MO. AND MINNEAPOLIS MN. THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS A FEATURE THAT CAN READ ROAD SPEED LIMIT SIGNS AND CHANGE THE SET SPEED TO MATCH THE INDICATED SPEED. THIS FEATURE CAN BE TURNED ON OR OFF BY USING THE INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM. ON THIS TRIP TO KANSAS I HAD THIS SIGN RECOGNITION FEATURE TURNED OFF. THE PROBLEM IS THAT ON AT LEAST 12 OCCASIONS DURING THIS 900 MILE TRIP THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD ARBITRARILY CHANGE THE SET SPEED FROM 70 MPH TO 45 MPH APPLYING THE BRAKES TO REDUCE TO THE 45 MPH SPEED. THE MERCEDES DEALER WHO I PURCHASED THE CAR FROM SAYS THAT THEY CANNOT FIND ANY MALFUCTION. I WAS NEARLY REAR ENDED BY A LARGE TRUCK THAT I HAD JUST PASSED AND RETURNED TO THE RIGHT LANE. I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT THIS SYSTEM IS WORKING AS DESIGNED. I GUESS THIS SYSTEM HAS KILL SO MERCEDES OWNERS BEFORE ANY THING IS DONE.
Jan 30, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaints
The air conditioner is constantly leaking refrigerant due to a potential damaged hose which is a known issue for Mercedez-Benz SUVs. I contacted the dealership who advised this is not an issue currently being addressed by the manufacturer and would be at the cost of the vehicle owner.
Feb 04, 2025
Hear a clicking sound when I drive the vehicle - like a metronome. It happens randomly and I am not able to recreate it when I take the car in for service. I recorded a video of it when it happened and showed it to the dealership service department - They said they hear the sound but cannot do anything about it unless they can hear it when they take it for a test drive. This has been happening for atleast two years now from when the car had 25000 miles to even now when it has 61,000 miles. It does not matter what speed I am driving it. Once it starts it continues till I stop the car and turn it off .
Nov 29, 2023
An additional problem with a current recall of the air-conditioning hoses hoses ~ I have been diagnosed with toxic mold poisoning and I need my car inspected due to condensation issues asap
Jun 07, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450. The contact stated while reversing, the rearview camera was inoperable. The message "Active parking Assist and Parktronic inoperative - See Operator's Manual" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown software update was performed; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that an unknown wiring harness had experienced an electrical short due to water entry underneath the floorboard. The dealer informed the contact that the parts were not available for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that parts were not available. The failure mileage was 26,994.
Aug 08, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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.
Mar 07, 2022
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System) however, the over-the-air software update was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the software update was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Feb 14, 2022
TIRES
3 complaints
2020 MERCEDES BENZ GLE 350. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ILLUMINATED TIRE INFLATION ALERT.
Dec 19, 2022
The tire tread on the Cooper 275/50R20 tires was worn down almost completely after 16,000 miles. The tires are the original tires that the vehicle was purchased with and are rated to 50,000 miles. When the dealer serviced the vehicle, they noted that the tires were not safe to drive on due to there being almost no tread left at just 16,000 miles. They also stated that they had seen multiple cars with the same Cooper tires that lasted only 10,000-16,000 miles despite being rated to 50,000 miles. They also indicated that Cooper has taken 6+ months to respond to requests for replacement tires under the warranty and vehicle owners have had to go out of pocket to buy replacement tires themselves since the worn out tires are unsafe to drive on and they can't wait 6+ months for a response from the manufacturer with replacement tires. Additionally, they flagged that the tires are dangerous since most vehicle owners don't check their tires after only 10,000-16,000 miles and have no idea that they are driving on tires with little to no tread that could fail at any time. The tires have been saved by the dealership and are available for inspection. Additionally, there is a video documenting the tires while still on the vehicle. These tires should be recalled for defective wear and Cooper held accountable for failing to acknowledge and fix this huge safety issue.
Jun 11, 2022
THE VEHICLE IS A 2020 MERCEDES BENZ GLE 580, WHICH HAS ALL-WHEEL DRIVE. IT HAS STANDARD WHEELS AND TIRES. THE OE TIRES ARE COOPER DISCOVERER SRX LE, SIZE 275/50R20. AT 5,900 MILES, BOTH OF THE FRONT TIRES BEGAN CHUNKING, WHERE CHUNKS OF TIRE TREAD BEGAN FALLING OFF. THIS OCCURRED IN THE CENTER OF THE TREAD, AS WELL AS AT THE EDGE OF THE TREAD WHERE IT MEETS THE GROOVE. THE FRONT TIRES WERE REPLACED BY MERCEDES AT 5,932 MILES. APPROXIMATELY 6,000 MILES LATER, I NOTICED THE FRONT TIRES WERE CHUNKING AGAIN. THE REAR TIRES WORE OUT AND WERE REPLACED AT ABOUT 10,250 MILES. IF THEY ALSO EXPERIENCED CHUNKING, IT WAS NOT NOTICED.
Feb 03, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
3 complaints
48 V BATTERY MALFUNCTIONED, I WAS ADVISED THAT IT WAS NOT CHARGING. WHICH LED TO ADDITIONAL MESSAGES INCLUDING THE CAR WAS NOW OVERHEATING, TO PULL THE CAR OVER AND NOT DRIVE IT. AT THAT POINT I LOST ENGINE POWER AND WAS UNABLE TO EVEN DRIVE THE CAR UP A SLIGHT HIM.
Jan 28, 2022
WHILE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT AT A LOW SPEED MY CAR TURNED OFF BY ITSELF I KEPT PUSHING ON THE ACCELERATOR BUT I REALIZED THE CAR IS NOT MOVING, IT HAD SHOT OFF BY ITSELF. I TURNED THE CAR ON MANUALLY AND THEN WORKED. IT WAS A TERRIFYING SITUATION. I KEPT THINKING WHAT IF I WAS ON THE FREEWAY AND MY CAR HAD TURNED OFF WHILE THE MOVING TRAFFIC WAS ABOUT 70 MILES. I CONTACTED MERCEDEZ BEZ AND I WAS TOLD IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN A GLICH AND THAT THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE IT. I FEEL THAT IS A VERY DANGEROUS GLICH.
Jan 06, 2021
WARNING LIGHT "COOLANT TOO HOT SHUT ENGINE OFF" COMES ON REPEATEDLY AND THIS IS UNABLE TO BE FIXED. LIGHT COMES ON WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. WAS TOLD BY MERCEDES THIS WAS A FAULTY WARNING LIGHT. YESTERDAY THIS CAME ON AND MY ENGINE SHUT ITSELF OFF WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A BUSY STREET. I WAS ALMOST HIT BY ANOTHER VEHICLE AS I LOST POWER TO THE CAR ON A MAIN ROAD. I BARELY ROLLED INTO A PARKING LOT. COULD HAVE BEEN A HORRIBLE (FATAL) DISASTER HAD I BEEN ON THE FREEWAY. "MALFUNCTION" "SEE OPERATOR'S MANUAL" AND "48V BATTERY SEE OPERATORS MANUAL" ALL CAME ON WITHIN RAPID SUCCESSION BEFORE THE ENGINE SHUT OFF ON ME.
Oct 20, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
2 complaints
My 2020 GLE 350 first displayed a problem with left indicator on front left hand head lamp. I took an appointment with my Mercedes dealer for repair. Then it started showing all kinds of safety problems on the screen -like blind spot monitoring, collision warning etc not working. I parked it in my garage, shut off the engine, locked it and in a couple minutes, it started a blower like sound. I called Mercedes service center and described the problem. They sent a tow truck. While waiting for tow truck, the blower would automatically start every 3 to 4 minutes in a standing, switched off car which can be very dangerous. After diagnostics the authorized service center found the root cause to be a worn out seal which let condensation in the lamp assembly and the water entered in the electrical module. I have taken up the issue with Mercedes corporate. While they are investigating, I wanted to file this complaint so that if there are similar complaints in this model, it may be a manufacturing defect that needs a recall to fix the bad sealing
Dec 29, 2025
Wire harness need to be replaces car is under 100k miles and the same issue has been recalled cla250 gla models with the same engine. Current model GLE is not under recall but has the same issue with the electrical issue “oil pump vavle connector fault” which cause engine light .
Oct 25, 2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaints
The main multimedia screen in the car has failed and is malfunctioning. Rear view parking camera only works some of the time. No access to temperature control. No access to navigation. No access to multimedia. The lack of functioning camera system has put myself and others at risk during parking and driving. This has been reported as a recall in the past (NHTSA 21V354, MBUSA Campaign 2021080009) and has been reportedly completed. My concern is that this repair/fix dis not sufficiently address the root of this issue and now the problem has returned.
Nov 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes Benz GLE350. The contact stated that the Back Over Prevention camera image would display a glitchy or a blank image while in use. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System). The vehicle was initially taken to Mercedes-Benz of Westmont (200 E Ogden Ave, Westmont, IL 60559) for the recall repair; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to Sears Imported Autos Mercedes-Benz (13500 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305) where it remained in the possession of the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
Nov 09, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump. The vehicle was repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V445000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 79,000.
Oct 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling in traffic, the check engine and battery warning lights illuminated along with the message to "Do not Drive Vehicle". The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed and determined that the fuel tank and fuel delivery module was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V572000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 29,201.
Dec 27, 2023
POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
Transmission Control Module / Valve Body failure occurred at 44,000 miles
Jul 25, 2025
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE350. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE TRANSMISSION MADE THUMPING AND REVVING NOISES AND ALSO JOLTED WHEN DECELERATING AND SHIFTING INTO FIRST GEAR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF LANCASTER (5100 MAIN ST, EAST PETERSBURG, PA) WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPROGRAMMED, AND THE VALVE BODY AND TRANSMISSION FLUIDS WERE CHANGED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURES CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF ATLANTIC CITY (6623 EAST BLACK HORSE PIKE, EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, NJ) WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURES CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100.
Oct 08, 2019
SUSPENSION
2 complaints
The rear shock absorbers have failed on my vehicle. The vehicle makes sounds when going over bumps in the road. There is an active recall on other GLE 2020 450 models but not my specific VIN. The vehicle has less then 30,000 miles on it before the shock absorbers went out.
Jul 10, 2025
The rear shock absorbers failed at approximately 33,000 miles. The issue presented with a rattle in the rear end of the car. A certified mechanic diagnosed the issue as the rear shock absorbers were leaking potentially due to improper sealing of the shock absorbers. The certified mechanic presented a document related to a Recall Campaign that is directly correlated to the rear shock absorber issue (please see attached file). The Recall Campaign specifically mentions the vehicle in question ( 2020 Mercedes GLE350) , but my vehicle VIN is not included in the recall campaign. Therefore, the dealership will not fix the issue under the recall campaign. I would like to investigate the remedies available under the current situation.
Oct 10, 2024
SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
The rear seat belts are faulty. I had to pay out of pocket for the rear middle seat belt repair and now the rear right side is faulty and does not budge or move pass a point. I am concerned that each time these do not work, I will be out another thousand dollars for repair. Seat belts on some of my oldest cars continue to work. This should not be happening especially to a newer vehicle. I need help and by that I want Mercedes to cover the cost. It's very stressful. Thank you for hearing my concern.
May 05, 2025
THE VEHICLE HAS A FAILED REAR SEATBELT - DEALERSHIP ADVISED THAT NO PARTS ARE AVAILABLE TILL MID JUNE 2021. IN THE MEANTIME DAIMLER ON THEIR Q1 FOR INVESTORS ADVISED THAT THEY DID RECORD NEW SALES AND PRODUCTION NUMBERS, SO LACK OF PARTS IS NOT BECAUSE OF NOT ENOUGH PARTS BUY BECAUSE OF OVER PRODUCTION
Apr 26, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
When operated with driver assist and stop and go assist, the car, often slams the brakes for no reason in the middle of the highway. I have reported this problem multiple times to the dealership and the dealership has kept the car in for investigation multiple times sometimes for more than two weeks. They were able to replicate the problem, but they had absolutely no solution. It’s been a few years now and it keeps happening. This is a liability issue us cars behind me are at risk to collide.
Mar 27, 2025
The Brakes Failed - At Mercedes Dealership for Over a Month My Wife could have been killed on the highway going 70MPH with no brakes The car was towed by Mercedes over a month ago and never returned. No one will talk to me. Mercedes will not speak with me. Nor have they contacted the dealer - Letter Enclosed No warning - Just brake failure. Prior to that we got a "Your cameras are not working message" a week prior and the car would warn you another car was there. But there was no car.
Aug 14, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
Water intrusion. It rained, water leaked into driver seat floor. The water then made it to the electrical parts underneath the driver seat. This seems identical to the recall I am seeing online with the number: 23V-177
Dec 04, 2024
DISPLAY INDICATED 'SYSTEM SUSPENDED' TWICE TODAY. CONCERNED ? BUT SUV DROVE FINE
Mar 24, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
2 complaints
There were two incidents that had similar symptoms: one before the dealership said they fixed and one afterwards. The issue is that while driving I would get three warning, all at the same time: coolant too hot, 48v battery malfunction, shut the engine off. The first time it happened immediately after I turned on the vehicle and within 5 minutes of leaving a parking lot. The second time it happened after about 3 hours of driving at highway speeds. After the first time it happened dealership said they fixed the issue by upgrading the software (battery software?). Both times it happened on the highway. The first time on the uphill, and vehicle immediately shut off and could not make it up the ramp. The second time in the tunnel on the flat road, could not make it to the exit. Both times created extremely dangerous situation as I had no time to take the exit and vehicle shut off about 30 seconds after warning popped up. The second time in the tunnel was especially dangerous as there was no shoulder and i had to stop in the middle of the right lane as cars were going at 60 mph by me. I was really worried for myself and my family. I have to trust that Mercedes is capable of fixing the issue and providing a reliable vehicle I can depend on and trust for the safety of my family.
Mar 04, 2024
DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 70 MPH AND '48V BATTERY MALFUNCTION' WARNING GOES OFF, ALONG WITH A YELLOW CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. A FEW SECONDS LATER A 'COOLANT' ERROR MESSAGE POPS UP AND A RED CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. CAR LOOSES POWER COMPLETELY AND I'M UNABLE TO ACCELERATE AT ALL. CALL FLASHES A MESSAGE OF 'PULL OVER AND TURN THE ENGINE OFF'. FORTUNATELY NO ONE WAS BEHIND ME AND I WAS ABLE TO COAST SAFELY TO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY BEFORE THE CAR STALLED COMPLETELY. FOUND OUT THROUGH SEVERAL BLOG POSTS MULTIPLE OTHER 2020 GLE OWNERS ARE HAVING THE SAME SAFETY ISSUE AND THERE HAS BEEN NO RECALL BY MERCEDES-BENZ AND NO RESOLUTION FOR THE ISSUE. VEHICLES ARE SPENDING MONTHS IN THE SHOP AND EVENTUALLY BEING BOUGHT BACK BY THE MANUFACTURER OR DEALERSHIP. THIS IS AN INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS ISSUE TO LOSE ALL POWER AND CONTROL OF THE VEHICLES SPEED. I'M LUCKY NO ONE WAS ON THE ROAD NEAR ME WHEN THIS HAPPENED, OTHERWISE AN ACCIDENT ALMOST SURELY WOULD HAVE OCCURRED. MERCEDES SHOULD BE FORCED TO ADDRESS THIS SAFETY ISSUE IMMEDIATELY.
Aug 29, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
Car has an automated start stop and ruined my starter a lot of ppl have had similar issues
Jan 10, 2024
BOUGHT A DEALER OWNED MERCEDES GLE 350 WITH 8500 MILES ON IT IN NOVEMBER 2020. IN FEW DAYS WE TOOK BACK THE CAR TO GET THINGS FIXED, WHICH WE NOTICED. WE WERE TOLD, AS DID NOT BUY A NEW CAR WE HAVE TO BEAR WITH FEW ISSUES. WE LEASED THE CAR AND WANTED TO BE SURE THAT WE DO NOT GET INTO A PROBLEM BECAUSE OF THE ISSUES WHICH WE INHERITED, WE PUT THE PROBLEMS ON RECORD. UPON COMPLETION OF 10,000 MILES, CAR WAS DROPPED FOR SERVICE AND ATTENDING RECALLS ON FEBRUARY 10TH. 2021. IT TOOK MORE THAN 20 DAYS FOR COMPLETING THE UPDATE OF SOFTWARE, FOR WHICH WHOLE DASHBOARD DISPLAY WAS REPLACED AND HAD TO BE IMPORTED FROM GERMANY, FINALLY I GOT THE CAR BACK ON MARCH 2ND, 2021. APRIL 23RD, 2021, WHILE GOING OUT FOR DINNER, FELT SOME VIBRATION AS IF CAR IS RUNNING AT THE EDGE OF THE ROAD. I THOUGHT I HIT A NAIL OR SOMETHING AND GOT A FLAT TIRE, I SUDDENLY APPLIED BREAK, LUCKILY CAR BEHIND ME DID NOT HIT ME FORM THE BACK, I ALSO HEARD SOME RUBBING NOISE FROM THE BACK OF THE CAR. NEXT DAY EARLY MORNING I TOOK THE CAR TO THE SERVICE, I DID FEEL THE INTERMITTENT VIBRATION AND RUBBING NOISE WHEN I DROVE TO THE SERVICE. TODAY ON APRIL 28TH. 2021, I AM INFORMED THAT DRIVE SHAFT NEEDS REPLACEMENT, AND IT HAS TO COME FROM GERMANY AND WILL TAKE 10 -12 DAYS. I AM ADVISED TO TAKE MY CAR BACK AND BRING BACK ONCE THE PART ARRIVES. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN DOING SO AND WANT TO SEEK YOUR OPINION. IS IT SAFE , DID I LAND UP GETTING A LEMON CAR?
Apr 28, 2021
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
After starting my vehicle and placing it into drive, a warning message appeared on the dashboard stating, “Vehicle warning Do not continue to drive,” indicating that the vehicle would be unable to move forward or in reverse. Immediately following the warning, the vehicle lost all ability to move in either direction while other vehicles were approaching, creating a hazardous situation placing my safety at risk. I was required to keep my foot on the brake and ultimately place the vehicle in the park position. The vehicle was subsequently towed to the dealership. Following diagnostic testing, the dealership confirmed a transmission solenoid valve fault in the control unit and recommended replacement of the transmission valve body and park pawl solenoid, along with a transmission service. The condition was confirmed by the dealership, and there were no warning messages, indicator lights, or symptoms prior to the sudden failure.
Dec 30, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped, the vehicle was idling low. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinder #4. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to a NHTSA recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Dec 12, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
The air conditioning in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV has failed due to a refrigerant (freon) leak, leaving the system unable to cool and properly defrost the windshield. This is not an isolated issue—many other GLE owners have reported the same failure on forums and blogs, suggesting a widespread defect. NHTSA has already issued Recall No. 23V177000 (March 2023) for improperly installed A/C drain hoses in 2020–2021 GLE/GLS models, which created water intrusion, electrical shorts, fire risk, and failures of critical systems (eCall, unlocking, limp mode). In addition, a Mercedes-Benz Technical Bulletin dated August 5, 2024 (NHTSA MC-11000597-0001) specifically identifies evaporator refrigerant leaks as a frequent cause of A/C failure. Safety Concerns Loss of cabin cooling in hot weather poses risk of driver fatigue or heat-related illness. Defogging/defrosting may fail in humid conditions, creating visibility hazards. Prior related A/C defects have been tied to short circuits and electrical risks. Consumer Impact This defect has created significant hardship. The A/C failure occurred far earlier than expected for a premium vehicle, leaving me with high out-of-pocket repair estimates. The lack of cooling makes the car unsafe and uncomfortable to drive in hot weather, and the inability to properly defog/defrost windows compromises visibility. I purchased a Mercedes-Benz with the expectation of reliability and safety, and this known defect has undermined that trust. Requested Action Mercedes-Benz should cover the repair costs for affected vehicles, and NHTSA should investigate whether an expanded recall is necessary to include A/C evaporator refrigerant leaks as part of the broader HVAC system defect.
Oct 28, 2025
AIR BAGS
1 complaint
Air bag warning light
Oct 07, 2025
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
Both left and right headlamp/turn signal/marker light assemblies and control modules have been replaced. One under warranty in 2023, the second in 2025. Infotainment system displays error messages Messages may increase as assembly/control module becomes increasingly dysfunctional.
Aug 26, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
My car shook while idling the last two weeks of June 2025. It felt like it was going to shut off at light/stop sign which it did on two occasions. On July 2, 2025, it stalled abruptly during a drive after which I took it to Mercedes for service. I never received a warning signal or fault message even after it stalled. Mercedes service indicated the engine cylinder head valves were burnt and not sealing properly - estimated cost of repair $10,023.00. I am the original owner of the car, had routine maintenance and only had it performed at Mercedes. My car stopped without warning- but luckily on a local road. Others who are driving with this defective engine may not be so lucky. It appears this is a known issue to Mercedes USA but they have not done anything to fix it. The engine is M264. Even if valves are replaced, this problem may continue to occur as the Mercedes serviceman does not know what caused the burnt cylinders - just that they needed to be replaced and that it was not wear and tear. Not sure if this is related, but there was a 2022 recall on this engine (my car was not part of batch that was recalled) regarding turbo charger oil feed and return lines. The issues included engine vibration at idle and loss of power.
Jul 17, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Strong raw gasoline odor in cabin, making passengers “light headed”. Called dealer about a fuel system recall on this model however they said my vin number didn’t fall under the recall.. no warning lights are on
May 29, 2025
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Campaign No. 2022030003, April 2022 My vehicle is experiencing the exact same issues, but the VIN was not tagged as one of the affected.
Oct 25, 2024
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
1)Wiper does run smoothly right from the time the car was purchased. 2) recently the glass window of passanger seat at the back opens very slowly when the button is pushed to pull the glass down.
Mar 20, 2024
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
The adaptive cruise on the Mercedes has a habit of harsh braking during stop and go traffic. It's not a natural braking manev8, instead it's jarring and I feel like it could cause a rear end with how jarring it is. Many other users are experiencing the same.
Sep 08, 2023
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
The GLE350 windows trim bar flew out from the rear window frame . Driving Speed Range (75-82mph). Fortunately no accident or damages occurred. This so so dangerous . If the trim bar flew into vehicle or pedestrian resulting injury or death.
Sep 05, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
After driving for 2 1/1 hours,we changed drivers and shortly there after lane assist, blind spot and active brake assist limited warnings come on along with engine decellerating from 70 mph with no acceleration allowed-had to pull off busy freeway(4 lanes), cut off engine and restart. Everything working fine until about 20 minutes later exact thing happened as well as 2 more times. Parked for night and exact thing happened after about 2 1/2 hours into trip. Very dangerous fighting traffic struggling to get to place to pull over and reset . MB dealership cannot find anything wrong- Safety issue to drive again not knowing if/when it might happen again
Aug 24, 2023
AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
I receive a passenger airbag warning message every time I start the vehicle. Took to Mercedes dealer 2/10/2023 and they diagnosed the airbag problem as being caused due to the failure of the weight sensor in the passenger seat. NO ETA on a part to fix the weight sensor in the seat and was given the vehicle back to drive as normal, despite the passenger airbag being disabled (vehicle is still under factory warranty period). Have returned the vehicle to the dealer again on 4/20/2023 and 5/30/3023 to try and expedite a fix but both times was told there was no ETA on a part to fix the weight sensor in the seat and was given the vehicle back to drive as normal, despite the passenger airbag being disabled. I opened an escalation with Mercedes Benz USA (ERM - Executive Referral Management team) on 7/7/2023 and they called the Mercedes dealer to confirm the airbag issue and tie to the bad weight sensor in the seat. The dealer re-confirmed with Mercedes Benz USA that they do not have an ETA to fix the passenger seat weight sensor, hence no way to fix the airbag malfunction. As I submit this on 8/14/2023 I still do not have a functioning passenger airbag and no ETA to get this issue resolved, despite trying for over 6 months. This has and continues to pose an incredible safety concern for passengers that ride in this vehicle as the airbag won't deploy if in an accident. Another unintended consequence is that the chime/ding to remind passengers to fasten their seat belt is disabled as it's also tied to the malfunctioning weight sensor in the seat. This is my only vehicle and I don't have any alternatives given I cannot sell this vehicle without a working airbag.
Aug 14, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound of moving water underneath the front seats. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that rainwater had leaked into the body of the vehicle due to a clogged sunroof drainage tube. The contact stated that several electrical components were submerged in the water and had to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.
Jun 12, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
The transmission with the Auto Start/Stop 48v system is very clunky and not smooth at low speeds. I'm unable to park in my garage or parallel park with the Auto Start/Stop feature enabled which is by default for reduced emissions. I fear hitting pedestrians/people at crosswalks, causing damage to my house inside my garage when parking, and/or other vehicles when parallel parking because the transmission is so clunky, it causes the vehicle to surge or lurch forward very harshly in such a way that I could cause damage to another vehicle or even hit a pedestrian or person at a crosswalk. There's something inherently wrong with the 48V auto start/stop when it engages and disengages with the transmission causing it to surge or lurch forward uncontrollably and dangerously.
Jun 02, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I was driving and came to a stop sign. When I was getting ready to pull off my entire vehicle automatically went into park and shut off. I was almost rear ended by the vehicle behind me. People were blowing at me. I just restarted the vehicle after a few attempts it started and I drove off. Also my entire dash went black while I was driving. I also felt water on my feet why on the passenger side ( like a light mist).
Apr 03, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
While driving on the interstate in the right lane with adaptive cruise set at 70mph the cameras will occasionally read the off ramp/exit speed limit signs and brake hard to decelerate to the posted off ramp speed limit. This creates an opportunity for a rear end collision. Additionally, the adaptive cruise will “see” vegetation or guard rails on the opposite side of the road, while in a turn, and brake as if to avoid a collision when no hazard exists. Many instances of the two anomalies.
Feb 28, 2023
AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
My 2020 GLE350 met with an accident on 1/20/2023. My wife was driving this vehicle on the freeway at about 40-50mph and she rear ended a Toyota Camry that was ahead of her. Mt complaint is two fold - The airbags did not deploy - The Active Brake Assist system failed to work The collision is a major one. You can see from the pictures. The body shop, an approved vendor for my insurance Geico, has prepared an estimate for $25,487. My vehicle has been in the body shop since the day of the accident. On 1/27/23, the estimate was prepared. I have to approve it and they will start the work anytime this week. This high repair cost is an indicator of a major collision. In such a major collision, I'd expect - Airbags should have deployed. The Camry's airbag did deploy, so should have ours. My wife suffered a strong whiplash. She has severe neck, shoulder, elbow pain and headaches. She is scheduled to undergo physical therapy. If the airbags deployed, these injuries could have been avoided. - The Active Brake Assist system should have been activated during the rear end collision. It should have detected and avoided the collision. However, it failed to deploy too. Few times when I back up, this safety feature has been very useful. It will identify moving objects like pedestrians, vehicle crossing and automatically apply the brakes and prevent potential collision. However, when we needed it most, it failed to save us. The automatic braking didn't happen. There were no visual or acoustic warnings prior to the collision. One of the main reasons I bought GLE350 was for this safety feature. I am so disappointed by this catastrophic failure and questioning whether I should drive this Mercedes anymore. Because of these safety failures, I really worry about driving this vehicle and bringing to NHTSA's attention. Please investigate this safety failure. Year: 2020 Make: Mercedes Benz Model: GLE350W4 Mileage: 30K miles approximately
Jan 30, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
1. After coming to a stop, foot placed on the pedal to accelerate through a neighborhood security gate, the car would not accelerate despite how hard I depressed the gas pedal. After approximately 3-4 seconds the car finally accelerated. 2. When coming to a stop the vehicle has a very hard “clunk” in the transmission to stop. Vehicle was taken to the dealership but they could not replicate the problem at the time so car was given back to me with “non replicable” issues.
Oct 07, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE BRAKES & EMERGENCY BRAKES - YES - THE CAR WAS TOWED TO MERCEDES How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? THE CAR COULD & DID NOT STOP Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? MERCEDES TOOK THE CAR OVER A MONTH AGO. NO ONE EVER CALLS ME BACK AND THEY GAVE 3 CASE NUMBERS - I HAVE MADE OVER 16 CALLS Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO. THE DEALER WHERE THE CAR IS SAYS MERCEDES HAS NOT CONTACTED THEM. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO WARNING - NO AVOIDANCE - NO BRAKES - THE BRAKES GOT SOFT OR LIKE A SPONGE, YOU HAD TO GO TO THE FLOOR - THEN THEY FAILED. - I DID GET A CAMERAS NOT WORKING WARNING AT TIMES - AS WELL AS THE CAR SWERVING AWAY FROM THINGS THAT WERE NOT THERE.
Aug 14, 2022
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
1. FIRST MESSAGE: 48V BATTERY MALFUNCTION 2. SECOND MESSAGE: STOP THE VEHICLE COOLANT IS NOT WORKING VEHICLE IS OVERHEATING. 3. LOST POWER, I COULD ONLY DRIVE 10 MILES PER HOUR. I PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND WAS ALMOST REAR ENDED BY A SEMI TRUCK. THERE ARE SEVERAL ONLINE OCCURRENCES REPORTING THESE SAME MESSAGES. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS WHEN A VEHICLE LOSES ALL POWER WHILE ON A BUSY HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED. MERCEDES AWARE OF A BULLETIN WITH THIS ISSUE.
Jul 27, 2022
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
1. Took the vehicle for leather cracking on both driver and passenger seats, MB of Bloomfield reached out to MB hotline in US and Germany, after week of trying to install the passenger seat new sensing sensor, kept getting failure message. They released the vehicle to me without tell me that the passenger air bag not functioning. they made me drive the vehicle for a week w/o air bag functioning. I found out where every time I start the engine kept getting msg of inoperative air bag. called the dealer and was told keep driving the vehicle and bring it back when part become available, which took over a week 2. Picked up a vehicle after a repair, while I am driving the whole over head console fall off and almost ran into vehicle in front of me, called the dealer and they found out they missed a bin. Over head console is loose and one day it is going to fall again, it is a poor design
Jul 26, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
front brakes make a grinding metal noise during slow motion applying breaks. i been in to the dealer ship multiple times about the issue and they replace the breaks pad and rotor , still have the same issue time down the road.
Jul 19, 2022
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
While driving the car in "assist" mode I will get a warning that all assist devices are inoperable. This is not always apparent while driving until I notice the adaptive cruise control and lane assist are not responding. Obviously a safety risk. I have talked to the dealership and they cannot find a problem. I contacted Mercedes headquarters and they responded with a customer service rep that began the conversation that he has no technical knowledge of the car (obviously not a big help). I told them I would complete a report to the NHTSA and he seemed very unconcerned. I have not seen a relationship between the "assist" becoming inoperable and anything else in the car or the driving conditions. All incidents so far (about five) have been on clear days or evenings on the freeway with no precipitation nor water on the road.
Nov 30, 2021
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact leased a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE450. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and yielding to make a right turn, the vehicle would shut off with several warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the “Active blind spot assist inoperable" and "Inoperable - See Owner’s Manual" appeared on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer on several occasions however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000
Oct 21, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
When my wife got into vehicle first thing in the morning after it sitting all night in the garage, she smelled a foul smell. As she was driving, she opened all the windows to dissipate the smell and turned in the heater because wit was cold that morning. After about ten to twelve minutes of driving, she noticed the check engine light came on and the car started shaking. She pulled over and exited vehicle. As soon as she got out the vehicle started smoking and caught fire. The vehicle is a total loss.
Oct 04, 2021
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE350. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V288000 (EQUIPMENT) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED ALFANO MOTORCARS MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER (1423 CALLE JOAQUIN, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93405, (805) 543-5752) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
May 11, 2021
SUSPENSION,WHEELS
1 complaint
EVER SINCE I BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN 2020 I FEEL THE SUV BOUNCES AS THE VEHICLE HITS A POTHOLE CAUSING IT TO SWAY & LOOSE CONTROL WHICH INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH OR ACCIDENT. I HAVE BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE THRICE TO THE DEALERS DURING THIS PANDEMIC, BUT THE PROBLEM HASN'T BEEN RESOLVED. THIS ALSO HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY WHEN MAKING TURNS, OR CURVES, IT BOUNCES & THERE IS LOSS OF CONTROL, IT IS VERY DANGEROUS.
Mar 28, 2021
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE350. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND NOTICED THAT THE SUN ROOF GLASS WAS PARTIALLY FRACTURED. THE CONTACT OPENED THE SUN ROOF AND SEVERAL PIECES OF SHATTERED GLASS FELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. WHILE PARKED, A SECONDARY VEHICLE PULLED UP BEHIND HER VEHICLE AND THE DRIVER EXITED THE VEHICLE AND INFORMED HER THAT SOME OF THE GLASS FROM THE SHATTERED SUN ROOF HAD STRUCK THEIR VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO ONE INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF LAGUNA NIGUEL (1 STAR DR, LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA 92677) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT AN OBJECT HAD STRUCK THE SUN ROOF CAUSING THE SUN ROOF TO SHATTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,040.
Mar 11, 2021
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I HAVE HAD THREE INSTANCES I BELIEVE THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM FAILED IN MY NEW CAR. THE FIRST INSTANCE WAS A WRONG WAY DRIVER COMING TOWARDS ME ON A FREEWAY OFFRAMP. I ESTIMATE THAT WE WERE WITHIN ABOUT 30 FEET OF EACH OTHER AND TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 30MPH WHEN WE BOTH QUICKLY SWERVED TO AVOID A COLLISION. NO WARNING AND NO AUTOMATIC BRAKING OCCURRED. THE NEXT TWO INSTANCES BOTH INVOLVED DRIVING AT NIGHT ON SURFACE STREETS IN WHICH I LAST MINUTE BRAKED TO AVOID HITTING STOPPED CARS IN FRONT OF ME. I WOULD APPROXIMATE MY RATE OF SPEED AT 30 MPH. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO QUICKLY BRAKE IN BOTH CASES AND AVOIDED THE COLLISIONS. IN BOTH CASES THE RED TRIANGLE FLASHED AND AN ALARM WENT OFF BUT THE CAR DID NOT BRAKE OR MAKE ANY EVASIVE MANEUVERS TO AVOID A COLLISION. I BROUGHT THIS TO THE ATTENTION OF CORPORATE MERCEDES BUT THEY REFERRED ME TO THE DEALERSHIP WITHOUT FURTHER COMMENT. THE DEALERSHIP FOUND NO ERRORS IN THE CAR. I BELIEVE THE PROBLEM MIGHT BE DEEPER; AN ERROR IN SOFTWARE PROGRAM. THUS THE CAR HAD NO ERRORS AS IT WAS FOLLOWING A FAULTY ALGORITHM. THIS SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO SAVE LIVES AND PROPERTY IF I FAIL TO TAKE QUICK ACTION AS A DRIVER. I BELIEVE THE SYSTEM FAILED!
Mar 04, 2021
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE HAS E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (E-ABC), WHICH HAS DIFFERENT DRIVE MODES THAT AFFECT TRANSMISSION SHIFT POINTS, STEERING INPUT AND SUSPENSION. THE VEHICLE HAS THE OE WHEELS AND TIRES (COOPER ALL-SEASON TIRES). ONE DRIVE MODE IS DESIGNATED 'CURVE,' WHICH CONTROLS BODY LEAN IN CURVES. DEPENDING ON THE SETTING, CURVE HOLDS THE BODY UPRIGHT OR SLIGHTLY LEANS IT INTO CURVES, LIKE A MOTORCYCLE LEANING INTO A CURVE. WHEN IN CURVE MODE AND DRIVING IN A CURVE, THE VEHICLE'S SAFETY OR ACCIDENT AVOIDANCE MECHANISMS MAY UNEXPECTEDLY INTERVENE FOR NO APPARENT REASON, CAUSING VEHICLE INSTABILITY AND AN UNEXPECTED CHANGE IN THE DIRECTION OF TRAVEL. THE VEHICLE BEGINS TO YAW IN ONE DIRECTION, GIVING THE SENSATION OF SLIDING ON WET OR ICY PAVEMENT, AND THEN THE VEHICLE 'BRAKES' ON ONE SIDE, 'PULLING' THE VEHICLE TO THAT SIDE. SOMETIMES THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT WILL TIGHTEN AND OCCASIONALLY, THE 'TRACTION' LAMP ILLUMINATES IN THE DASH. THE ROAD SURFACE IS CLEAN, DRY AND FLAT AND NO LOSS OF TRACTION OR POTENTIAL LOSS OF TRACTION OCCURRED. THIS HAPPENS MORE DURING CASUAL DRIVING THROUGH CURVES THAN WHEN AGGRESSIVELY DRIVING THROUGH CURVES. THIS FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, THE VEHICLE WAS EXITING A CURVE TO THE RIGHT AND THEN ABRUPTLY YAWED TO ONE SIDE AND THE VEHICLE CROSSED THE CENTER LINE, BEFORE STRAIGHTENING AND RECOVERY. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS ENTERING A CURVE TO THE LEFT AND IT ABRUPTLY YAWED AND WAS PULLED TOWARD THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD BEFORE STRAIGHTENING AND RECOVERY. THERE HAVE BEEN MORE THAN A DOZEN OTHER INSTANCES. THE ROAD SURFACES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN CLEAN, DRY AND FLAT ASPHALT PAVEMENT. ON ONE OCCASION A MERCEDES SHOP FOREMAN WAS IN THE VEHICLE TO WITNESS THE EVENT, WHICH HE DESCRIBED AS AN 'INTERVENTION.' THE MERCEDES BENZ DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THESE OCCURRENCES OR TO FIX THE PROBLEM.
Feb 03, 2021
SEATS
1 complaint
THE CAR IS EQUIPPED WITH POWER SEATS ON THE SECOND ROW. MY 2 YEAR OLD SON FIGURED OUT HOW TO USE HIS RIGHT FOOT TO MOVE THE SEAT FORWARD AND BACKWARD WHILE TRAVELING 65 MPH ON I-95. THIS CAUSED HIS TETHERED CAR SEAT TO SLIGHTLY PIVOT BECAUSE THE RIGHT SEAT RUBBED AGAINST THE MIDDLE SEAT. I CALLED MB USA IN GEORGIA TO REPORT. THEY SAID THERE WAS NO POSSIBLE WAY TO LOCK THE CONTROL SO KIDS CAN'T MOVE THE SEATS. THEY TOLD ME MY ONLY OPTION WAS TO MOVE CHILD TO MIDDLE SEAT, WHICH WON'T WORK WHEN MULTIPLE YOUNG CHILDREN ARE IN THE CAR. THIS IS DANGEROUS AND AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. IF RECOMMENDED I CAN ALSO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA SO THAT PARENTS WITH YOUNG CHILDREN ARE AWARE. I ASKED MB TO BUY BACK THE CAR SINCE THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD BUT THEY DECLINED.
Jan 26, 2021
STRUCTURE,SEATS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE SENSOR FOR THE POWER TAILGATE IS NOT SENSITIVE ENOUGH TO OPEN / CLOSE THE TAILGATE. THE FRONT WINDSHIELD HAS CRACK AFTER THE WINTER STORM. I BELIEVE IT WAS RELATED TO THE EXTREME LOW TEMPERATURE UNDER MASSACHUSETTS WEATHER. IT IS NOT RELATED TO THE DAMAGE BY THE HIGHWAY ROCKS AS I COULD NOT FOUND ANY DAMAGE OF DENTS ON THE GLASS. THE DRIVER SEAT LEFT SIDE EDGE APPEARED CRACKING AFTER COUPLE MONTHS OF USE. IT IS A MB TEX MATERIAL WHICH IT CLAIMS THAT IT SUPPOSED TO BE MORE DURABLE AND CARE FREE THAN REGULAR REAL LEATHER BUT ACTUALLY IT WASN'T ON MY CAR.
Dec 30, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
I WAS TRAVELLING ON HIGHWAY WITH ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL ON. WHEN NEAR THE EXIT, I PRESS THE OFF BUTTON FOR THE CRUISE CONTROL. TO MY SURPRISE, THE CAR DIDN'T SLOW DOWN, AND INSTEAD MAINTAIN THE ENGINE POWER TO KEEP THE CAR IN SET SPEED. I TRIED THE OTHER SETTINGS (OFF, CANCEL, SPEED DOWN) OPTION BUT NOTHING IS RESPONSIVE. SINCE I AM ON THE OFF RAMP ALREADY, I HAVE TO STEP ON THE BRAKE (THIS DOES FINALLY STOP THE CRUISE CONTROL) TO SLOW DOWN THE CAR. AFTER I COME TO A STOP AT THE STOP LIGHT, I NOTICE THAT THE AR VIEW CAMERA HAS A CONDENSATION IN THE CENTER OF THE CAMERA LENS (SEE FIRST PICTURE WITH 11/10 DATE). AT THE SAME TIME, MULTIPLE WARNING MESSAGE APPEAR ON DASH, INCLUDING "ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL INOPERATIVE", "ACTIVE LANE KEEP ASSIST INOPERATIVE", AND A FEW OTHERS. THE CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR REMAIN ON AND ACTIVE ON THE DASH (BUT SYSTEM ISN'T WORKING) UNTIL I GOT TO A SAFE LOCATION TO RESTART THE CAR. ALL ERROR MESSAGE WAS CLEARED AFTERWARD. A FEW DAYS LATER (11/16), I HAD THE CAR AT THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. I MENTIONED THE ISSUE BUT THEY SAID THEY ARE UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG AND CAMERA LENS WAS CLEARED AT THAT TIME. AFTER I GOT HOME, I NOTICE THERE ARE CONDENSATION AGAIN ON THE CAMERA LENS (SEE SECTION PICTURE WITH 11/16 DATE).
Nov 28, 2020
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
1 complaint
I PURCHASED A GLE 580 IN JANUARY 2020 WITH STANDARD 20-INCH WHEELS AND TIRES ON THE FRONT AND REAR. THIS TIRE/WHEEL COMBINATION IS AN AVAILABLE OPTION ON THE GLE 350, GLE 350 4MATIC AND GLE 450 4MATIC. THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL FOR ALL 2020 GLE MODELS (AND PRESUMABLY FOR EARLIER MODELS) STATES: 1.ROTATE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS ONLY IF THE WHEELS AND TIRES ARE OF THE SAME DIMENSIONS. 2.ON VEHICLES THAT HAVE THE SAME SIZE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS, ROTATE THE WHEELS ACCORDING TO THE INTERVALS IN THE TIRE MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY BOOK IN YOUR VEHICLE DOCUMENTS. IF THIS IS NOT AVAILABLE, ROTATE THE TIRES EVERY 3,000 TO 6,000 MILES (5,000 TO 10,000 KM), DEPENDING ON THE WEAR. THE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS ARE INDISTINGUISHABLE FROM ONE ANOTHER AND NEITHER IS MARKED 'FRONT ONLY' OR 'REAR ONLY.' BY CHANCE, I DISCOVERED THE REAR WHEELS HAVE AN OFFSET THE FRONT WHEELS DO NOT HAVE, WHICH PLACES THE REAR WHEELS FURTHER OUTBOARD THAN THE FRONT WHEELS. THE OFFSET MAKES ROTATING THE TIRES DANGEROUS. ONLY AFTER I DISCOVERED THIS ISSUE DID MERCEDES TELL ME, 'DUE TO THE DESIGN OF THE DRIVETRAIN, THE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS HAVE DIFFERENT OFFSETS, OFFSET IS THE DISTANCE FROM THE HUB OF THE WHEEL TO THE CENTER LINE OF THE WHEEL. IF YOU PUT THE FRONT TIRE/WHEELS IN THE BACK, IT WILL SIT FURTHER IN AND CAN AFFECT THE HANDLING OF THE VEHICLE.' HOWEVER, THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL STATES TIRES AND WHEELS OF THE SAME SIZE FRONT AND REAR SHOULD BE ROTATED. THIS OFFSET IS NOT SOMETHING ONE WOULD EXPECT WITH TIRES AND WHEELS OF THE SAME SIZE. I ASKED MERCEDES BENZ TO AGREE TO CORRECT THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL FOR GLE MODELS AFFECTED BY THIS OFFSET AND TO SEND NOTIFICATION OF THE OFFSET ISSUE TO VEHICLE OWNERS AND IT DECLINED MY REQUEST. THIS OFFSET POSES A SAFETY RISK IF GLE OWNERS WITH 20-INCH WHEELS ROTATE THEIR TIRES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL.
Nov 24, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
SUDDEN ACCELERATION - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURES- 1) 03/21/20 COMPLETE ELECTRICAL FAILURE - ALL WARNING LIGHTS, EXTERIOR LIGHTS & BRAKE LIGHTS STUCK ON, THEN WOULD NOT START AFTER LOCAL SHOPPING TRIP-ODOMETER 754 MILES - VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER - 'REPROGRAMMED'. 2) 06/18/20 ACTIVE SPEED CONTROL-CRUISE CONTROL (WHICH READS SPEED LIMIT SIGNS AND ADJUSTS SPEED) WAS SET AT 50 MPH - SUDDENLY BEGAN TO ACCELERATE TO 80 MPH. ODOMETER 1641 MILES. 3) ACTIVE SPEED LIMIT CONTROL OFTEN READS FRONTAGE ROAD SPEED LIMIT SIGNS WHILE ON MAIN HIGHWAY, INITIATING BRAKING. 4) ACTIVE SPEED CONTROL WHEN ON CRUISE CONTROL WILL APPLY BRAKES WHEN USING TURN SIGNAL FOR LANE CHANGES. 08/31/20-09/04/2020 RETURNED TO DEALER- ODOMETER 2361-'REPROGRAMMED'. 5) 09/19/20 ACTIVE SPEED LIMIT CONTROL SET AT 15 MPH SUDDENLY BEGAN TO ACCELERATE TO 80 MPH. ODOMETER 2512. WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL BY BRAKE APPLICATION TO RELEASE CRUISE CONTROL AFTER VEHICLE INITIATED HARD ACCELERATION WITHOUT ANY DRIVER INPUT AND HAD REACHED 30-35 MPH. SAME AS 06/18/20 SIMILAR INCIDENT. DEALER WAS ADVISED AND 'UPDATED SOFTWARE' MERCEDES BENZ-GRAPEVINE, TX INVOICE 511097. MERCEDES GLE 450 DATE OF MFG. 10JAN2020 - LEASED 25JAN 2020.
Sep 22, 2020
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
WE WERE DRIVING OUR MERCEDES GLE 350 ON I 80 NEAR MILE MARKER 203.1, OHIO ON 7/11/2020 AT 7 AM. IT WAS RAINING A BIT IN MORNING. THE LANE DEPARTURE ASSIST WAS ON, AND IT WAS TURNING GREEN AND GRAY CONTINUOUSLY. I KEEP LANE ASSIST ON ALL THE TIME FOR SAFETY PURPOSE. I WAS DRIVING ON THE SLOW LANE ON RIGHT MOST LANE AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MILES. SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE LOST CONTROL AND STARTED SLIPPING ON THE ROAD. I TRIED TO CONTROL IT, HOWEVER IT WOULD NOT COME UNDER CONTROL. FINALLY THE CAR DRIFTED ALL THE WAY TO THE LEFT MOST LANE, AND RAMMED INTO THE CONCRETE DIVIDER ON DRIVER SIDE. THE DRIVER SIDE BAGS INFLATED AND LUCKLY NO ONE WAS HURT SERIOUSLY. I AM A MECHANICAL ENGINEER FROM CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY, AND HAVE WORKED IN AUTO INDUSTRY FOR A FEW YEARS BEFORE. IT ALMOST FELT THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING THAT WAS MECHANICALLY WRONG THAT CAUSED THE CAR TO SLIP AND LOOSE CONTROL. MERCEDES GLE 350, 2020 MODEL HAS A HARSH REACTION TO LANE DEPARTURE AND I HAVE A FEELING THAT IT CAUSED THE CAR TO HYDROPLANE BECAUSE THE REACTION IS SO SUDDEN. PLEASE LOOK INTO THE ISSUE, SO THAT NO ONE GET SERIOUSLY HURT. THIS IS MY FIRST ACCIDENT IN LIFE AND I AM 42 YEARS OLD. I THINK THE LANE DEPARTURE SYSTEM IN MERCEDES DOSEN'T WORK OR NEEDS TO BE FINE TUNED SO THAT IT DOSEN'T CAUSE ACCIDENTS IN SLIPPERY CONDITIONS. [XXX] REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Jul 21, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES BENZ GLE350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR AT A STOP SIGN, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE SHIFTING INTO GEARS, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT UNDISCLOSED SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE BECAME PROGRESSIVELY WORSE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF PRINCETON LOCATED AT (2910 IS-1, LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ 08648), WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED HOWEVER, THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 4,000.
Mar 10, 2020
PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE350. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE PARKING BRAKE SUDDENLY ACTIVATED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO ABRUPTLY STOP. THE PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT DEACTIVATE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO MERCEDES OF BENITA SPRINGS, FL (14610 TAMIAMI TRAIL, NAPLES, FL) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PARKING SYSTEM WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE . THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 600.
Dec 23, 2019
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class have?
The 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class currently has 110 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 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-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 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2020 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-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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