Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Complaints

681 consumer complaints on file.

#11692261October 9, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
See attached document for complaint.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11691953October 7, 2025
AIR BAGS
Air bag warning light
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11691671October 6, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Not sure vehicle was parked and caught on fire from the drivers side completely burning
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11691253October 3, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the center digital screen failed to function as intended while attempting to use the safety features. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the command control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 65,340.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11690368September 29, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
First incident on I5 around exit 186 9 car was cruise control was on. Speed was set at 65. Car was accelerating from 60 to 65 but all of a sudden it slams on the brakes when no car was in front from 60ish to 45. Almost caused the car in the back to hit us. Multiple incident of cruise control on and while automatic lane change it would hit the breaks mid lane change when no other car is present ( especially when the interstate is curving). Going i5 north express lane. Cruise control on there was dotted lines for left exit. Car would was pushed heavily by lane keep to the left. But the intent was to continue on i5 N. The push was a lot stronger than normal. Almost crashed into meridian
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11689304September 23, 2025
VISIBILITY/WIPER, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving at 65 mph on Florida’s Turnpike (SR 91) at approximately 5:30 PM EST, the panoramic sliding sunroof panel (Mercedes-Benz part #167-780-20-00) spontaneously shattered without any impact or warning. Conditions were partly cloudy. No vehicles, debris, or construction were nearby. A loud explosive sound occurred overhead, followed by glass shards falling onto the roof and rear spoiler. The roller sunshade was open, and the operable glass section was closed. No glass entered the cabin. Startled by the sound and visible debris, I instinctively braked and swerved, almost losing control. Post-incident inspection showed a large portion of the panel was missing, and scratches and paint damage were visible behind the failure point. The vehicle was brought to a Mercedes-Benz dealership the next morning. Staff immediately acknowledged similar failures and stated they had seen and repaired multiple panoramic sunroof issues across the lineup, especially in hot weather. Although this type of failure is typically covered under the 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, it was denied due to the vehicle’s mileage (58,099). Replacement is estimated at $2,700 and is pending due to part backorder. The incident was independently confirmed by a Mercedes-Benz dealer, an independent repair shop, an auto glass facility, and an insurance representative. The auto glass technician noted that Mercedes-Benz uses thin tempered glass rather than laminated or thicker alternatives, which may increase the risk of spontaneous failure. This failure created significant safety risks including driver distraction, potential for secondary collisions, potential injuries from airborne glass, and road debris hazards. If the operable glass section had been open, glass shards may have entered the cabin, further increasing the risk of injury to myself, other vehicle occupants, or other road users. I request that NHTSA investigate the design and failure rates of this sunroof panel and similar components.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11688533September 19, 2025
ENGINE
I am writing to document a recurring and serious issue with the Mercedes-Benz GLE equipped with the M264 engine, specifically relating to premature cylinder head failure. In my case, the vehicle began showing the following symptoms: Rough engine idle and noticeable vibration during startup Loss of power, especially when accelerating Check engine light with fault codes related to misfire or combustion issues Oil and/or coolant loss, with no external leaks Engine knocking or ticking noises near the top end of the engine After a professional inspection and diagnostic testing, I was informed that the issue is likely due to a defect or failure in the cylinder head, possibly involving warping, cracking, or failure of the valve seats or head gasket area. Upon further research, I discovered that this issue is not isolated. Multiple owners of vehicles with the M264 engine—including various GLE, C-Class, and E-Class models—have reported similar problems, often occurring well before 70,000 miles and despite regular maintenance. The pattern suggests a possible design flaw or quality issue with the engine’s cylinder head. As of now, it appears no formal recall or technical bulletin has been issued by Mercedes-Benz regarding this specific problem. However, the number of similar reports suggests the issue is widespread enough to merit formal investigation or at least acknowledgment by the manufacturer.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11687634September 16, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Engine light came on at 44K miles
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686759September 11, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased my Mercedes-Benz new, and it currently has only 1,800 miles on it. My wife primarily drives the car, and we have experienced several alarming incidents where the vehicle suddenly shuts down while driving. 1.About two weeks after we purchased the car, it stalled at a stop sign. At the time, we ignored it. 2.On two separate occasions afterward, the vehicle suddenly slowed down and stopped while she was driving on the highway. 3.Most recently, two days ago, while driving to work early in the morning on the freeway, the car suddenly stopped in the dark. Thankfully, there were no cars immediately behind her. She attempted to restart the car, but it would not start immediately. After several minutes, it restarted, and she drove back home, very shaken by the incident. I contacted Mercedes-Benz, and I was told this may be a “software issue.” However, given the seriousness of the situation, I strongly believe this requires urgent investigation. A vehicle unexpectedly shutting down on the freeway is a major safety hazard that could easily lead to a serious accident. I request an immediate and thorough safety inspection of this vehicle, as well as a clear explanation of the cause and corrective action. This issue is extremely dangerous, and I need assurance that the vehicle is safe to drive.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686212September 10, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, POWER TRAIN, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
The Mercedes GLE450 was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green, the driver entered the intersection. The automatic braking system engaged without reason (there was open road ahead), bringing the car to a sudden standstill. The driver accelerated again, but this time the car went backwards into the car behind him. The driver had not shifted into reverse. So the car both slammed on the brakes, and switched the transmission into reverse, without driver input. Mercedes-Benz USA conducted an investigation and produced data showing that the car shifted into reverse while it was driving forward; they claimed this was driver error. However, the dealer (and our own experience) says it is impossible to shift the car into reverse when it is driving forward; the car must be stopped before it can shift into reverse. We have asked them to explain this seeming incoherence in their explanation, but they have not responded. Our conclusion is that the car malfunctioned. We still have the dashcam footage recorded during the incident, if that is needed.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686335September 10, 2025
ENGINE
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11685763September 8, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11685152September 4, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The fuel pump has been failing and shutting off and has been hesitant when taking off. It can leave you stranded in the middle of the road or if you turn left in front of people the car may stall and can cause a crash. Yes and independent dealer and the dealer both know it’s a problem. I took the vehicle into a Mercedes dealer and the fuel pump had a recall on it and the dealer refused to replace it although I had a engine code that they could pull up referring them to the fuel pump and the fuel pump not priming as it should in every start up. The failure happened a few months ago and I took it in and the dealer drilled a home in the rear of my car and failed to replace the fuel pump, which was covered under the warranty. And the dealer admitted there was water in the trunk area which corroded the fuel pump.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11683696August 28, 2025
POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES
MERCEDES-BENZ CORPORATE IS SHOWING A COMPLETE DISREGARD FOR ME AS A CONSUMER AND HUMAN! MY BRAKES RECENTLY FAILED WITHOUT WARNING (I LOST MY ABILITY TO BRAKE) AND IT ALMOST CAUSED ME TO BE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. MY LIFE AND SAFETY WAS PUT IN JEOPARDY AND I AM IN SHOCK. AT THEIR REQUEST I HAD MY VEHICLE TOWED IN TO MERCEDES-BENZ SERVICE AND CORPORATE ESCALATION IS DENYING MY CLAIM AND NOT PROVIDING ME ASSISTANCE IN ANY WAY.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11683243August 26, 2025
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682413August 22, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Safety issue with regarding the TCU (Telematics Control Unit). Active recall does not include my VIN# /Make & Model. NHTSA campaign number 22V365. My car has Constant SOS Inoperative Message after battery failure in 2021-2022.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680517August 13, 2025
AIR BAGS
My wife was hit pretty bad and was transported to hartford hospital and none of the airbag was deployed. I need help to sue Mercedes Benz. I thank god my daughter not in the car and my wife is alive. Attach are the photos and the east hartford can testify that none of the airbag save or protect my wife. I am disappointed at Mercedes and I have another Mercedes at home which am even scared to drive
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11679991August 11, 2025
ENGINE
The vehicle recently experienced a cylinder head failure, confirmed by a diagnotic code P0302 (Misfire in cylinder 2), resulting in rough idling, reduced power, and potential safety risks during opreration. This issue appears to be a known defect in the M264 engine, as evidenced by similar complains from owners of GLE 350, GLC 300, and other models on forums like [XXX] and [XXX] . The failure occurred just beyond the standard 4-year/50,000-mile warranty, and Mercedes-Benz USA denied my request for a goodwill repair despite acknowledging similar issues in related models under extended warranties. Repair costs are estimated $8,000 to $13,500. I believe this defect warrants investigation due to its prevalence and potential to cause sudden power loss, which could lead to hazardous driving conditions. I urge NHTSA to investigate the M264 engine in the 2020 GLE 350 for a possible recall to protect owners and ensure safety. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679179August 7, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The car has stalled 4 or 5 times, while driving in traffic. This can obviously be life threatening. The check engine light came on yesterday. We recently brought the car to Mercedes Benz in Daytona Beach, Florida. They told us we had low pressure in the cylinders, and needed a new cylinder head for $10,000. The cylinder pressures on their test however were all normal. They never mentioned a recall for a fuel pump defect causing cars to stall. A local independent repair company confirmed the cylinder pressure test was normal. Mercedes recalled 324,000 vehicles for this defective fuel pump between 2012 and 2020 (abc news). They recalled over 143,000 vehicles from June 2021 to 2023. My model, GLE350, was included in both recalls. I called Mercedes customer service. They said my car was built in February 2021, and there is no recall for this vehicle. There have been recalls for defective fuel pumps from 2012 to 2020, and June 2021 to 2023. I strongly suspect my vehicle built in February 2021 has the same defective fuel pump. I will bring the vehicle to an independent well qualified service center. If they diagnose a fuel pump problem. I would like Mercedes to reimburse me for the repair.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678733August 6, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Check engine warning light came on. Called dealership and they could not do a remote diagnostic so they made plans to pick up the car which was about 2 weeks after the problem was alerted. See attached repair invoice. The problem was a known issue with the cylinder head compression leakage. “Removed cylinder head and disassembled to find excessive play in exhaust valve guides and abnormally worn exhaust value seats. Replaced cylinder head.” This issue impacted engine performance, including vibration and lack of acceleration. See attached letter to Mercedes which we have received no response.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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