Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class problems
Light NHTSA footprint — 36 owner complaints. Either a clean record or thin data; we'll show what's there.
Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.
Buyable on the data — keep up the usual maintenance and inspect normally.
- No systemic severe-failure pattern in the complaint record
- Reliability score 8.2/10 — above the segment average
Our read of the federal NHTSA complaint and recall record for this exact year and model — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection. How we score.
Top trouble spots 1 category with 3+ complaints
What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim
We accepted delivery of our brand new vehicle in May 2021 from the dealer. In July 2021, the vehicle became completely disabled due to failure of the 48 volt battery. In October 2021, the dealer replaced 48 volt battery failed again causing the vehicle to become completely…
The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes Benz GL550. The contact stated that while driving 30 -35 mph an unknown vehicle crossed her path, the driver depressed the brake pedal but was unable to stop before colliding with a vehicle. The steering wheel air bag split open and deployed.…
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…
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…
Estimate your repair exposure
Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.
Common questions
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class reliable?
Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.2 out of 10 based on 36 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.
Should you avoid the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?
On the NHTSA data, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class does not need avoiding. Buyable on the data — keep up the usual maintenance and inspect normally. The record behind that call: No systemic severe-failure pattern in the complaint record; Reliability score 8.2/10 — above the segment average. This is our read of the federal complaint and recall data — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection.
What's the most common problem on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?
Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is electrical, with 14 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop.
What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?
The electrical is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.
How do I check if my Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has open recalls?
Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?
Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 36 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $850, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans are not always better value.