The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS580. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle, the contact became aware of an abnormally strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics who referred the contact to the local dealer for assistance. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11701200 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

The vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic 48V mild-hybrid electrical power supply breakdown and complete system failure while traveling at highway speeds during a cross-country move. The sudden failure forced an emergency lane change into an isolation zone just off the highway. The sudden failure left the cabin completely powerless with no operational safety systems, hazard lights, or air conditioning in extreme 100+ degree heat. This roadside isolation created an immediate physical hazard and directly inflicted acute heat exhaustion and severe dehydration, requiring a subsequent emergency clinical medical evaluation on July 5 for lingering environmental exposure symptoms. Subsequent forensic diagnostics performed at an authorized secondary dealership (Mercedes-Benz of North Scottsdale) captured digital video evidence of active, high-voltage 48V electrical arcing across a completely loose, un-torqued main grounding network connection left by a prior repair facility (Mercedes-Benz of Syracuse) during a major warranty engine removal repair just 7 days prior. Secondary dealer diagnostics officially logged this internal structural failure under factory tracking as Damage Code 5482G388. The loose connection created an active, immediate thermal and fire hazard capable of igniting nearby fuel or fluid lines. The original repairing facility deflected liability, claiming the high-voltage ground studs 'loosen due to many reasons' on an asset with no prior electrical faults. This creates a severe ongoing fire, thermal, and crash risk for this model year's 48V electrical system architecture.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11753406 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Both rear wheels on this vehicle have developed cracks which leads to tire pressure loss. Apparently, this is a common issue with Mercedes' heavier vehicles like the GLS and S series sedans. To be clear, I did not hit anything. I did not do any unusual driving. Both rear tires are fine. While you expect that certain components on a vehicle will have problems, it is also reasonable to expect that wheels will not crack prematuraly. Mercedes is aware of the problems. They were named in a class action lawsuit that was dismissed because cars were out of warranty. Warranty or no warranty, this is a major safety issue as a loss in tire pressure can be catastrophic.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11701188 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS450. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle in front made a sudden stop, causing the contact to make a sudden stop, causing the contact’s children to fall out the seats. The contact notice that the third-row buckle latch had malfunctioned. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the third-row driver’s side latch was replaced. On another occasion while driving 40 MPH, the contact heard squeaking noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic test, and the mechanic stated that no failure was found. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 25,000.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11503432 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

I was driving only 30mph through my suburban neighborhood bringing my kids to school in the morning when a loud shotgun sound hit my car causing me to be distracted and distraught. My entire sunroof had exploded on me for no reason. Mercedes is currently undergoing a class action lawsuit for this. But since it is not completely yet, I’m being told I need to pay $3700 out of pocket for the default damages and servals days without a vehicle.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11616529 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Wipers - I have had repeated issues with the windshield wipers on this vehicle. I have taken it to the dealership 3 times and I have not gotten a satisfactory solution to the issue. The wipers skip across the windshield making intermittent wipers distracting. The dealer's service manager said this is a known issue caused by the OEM wiper blades. I've also been told they can't recommend a solution. AC - The AC in my 2021 GLS 450 smells like moldy socks which makes me suspect there is some build up on the coils or in the vent. I had the vehicle serviced 2 times at the dealership for this issue where the tech informed me the issue was not likely to be resolved by the $500 service I had paid for. The service was discounted down to $307.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11544975 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov