Mercedes-Benz GLS / GL-Class known issues by generation

Chassis:

X164 (GL 320 CDI/BlueTEC, GL 350 BlueTEC, GL 450, GL 550)

Years:

2007–2012

Engine:

All

The X164 GL-Class shares the brake booster design covered by the 2022 recall of about 350,000 2006–2012 ML-, GL- and R-Class vehicles. Moisture trapped under a rubber sleeve can corrode the booster housing, which can reduce braking performance or lead to brake failure. Mercedes-Benz USA told owners not to drive until the repair is done. Dealers remove the sleeve, inspect the booster and replace it if needed. A 2024 follow-up (24V-298) extended the campaign, so check the VIN for both numbers.

Sources: [4]

Chassis:

X164 (GL 320, GL 350, GL 450, GL 550)

Years:

2007–2012

Engine:

All (Airmatic standard)

The GL-Class came with Airmatic air suspension as standard. As the trucks age, the rubber air springs and struts develop leaks, and valve blocks and air lines can also lose pressure. The compressor works harder to compensate and can fail from overuse, which is why a single leak often turns into a multi-part repair. Typical signs are a corner or the whole rear sitting low after parking and an air-suspension warning. Repair specialists recommend finding and fixing the leak before replacing the compressor. This is wear-related, not a recall.

Sources: [9][10]

Chassis:

X164 (GL 320 BlueTEC, GL 350 BlueTEC, GL 450, GL 550)

Years:

2009–2012

Engine:

All

A 2016 Takata campaign replaced the driver frontal airbag module on a long list of Mercedes vehicles, including 2009–2012 GL 450 and GL 550 models and the GL 320/350 BlueTEC. The filed total of about 711,000 units also includes Sprinter vans sold under the Dodge and Freightliner brands. Takata inflators can degrade over time in heat and humidity and rupture during deployment. Dealers replace the module free of charge. Recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer regardless of the vehicle's age or ownership history, and the NHTSA recall lookup shows whether the campaign is still open on a specific VIN.

Sources: [1]

Chassis:

X166 (GL 350 BlueTEC, GL 450, GL 550, GL/GLS 63 AMG with ACS)

Years:

2013–2017

Engine:

Vehicles with Active Curve System

GL/GLS and ML/GLE models fitted with the optional Active Curve System, a hydraulic anti-roll system, were recalled because if the reservoir's oil level was below minimum, the oil could foam under some driving conditions and escape through the cap's vent holes. Leaking oil on hot parts is a fire risk. Dealers correct the oil level and fit a new sealing cap. Buyers should confirm whether a given truck has ACS and, if so, whether the recall was done.

Sources: [2]

Chassis:

X166 (GL 350 BlueTEC)

Years:

2013–2016

Engine:

OM642 3.0L V6 diesel

The GL 350 BlueTEC (and earlier GL 320) is among the models covered by the 2020 settlement between Daimler/Mercedes-Benz USA, the EPA and California regulators over undisclosed emissions software in about 250,000 2009–2016 US diesels. The settlement requires an emissions modification, a software update plus new NOx-related hardware, backed by an extended warranty on the affected parts. A used GL BlueTEC should have the modification on record, since some state inspections and registrations may require it.

Sources: [8]

Chassis:

X167 (GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63)

Years:

2020–2022

Engine:

All

About 60,000 2020–2022 GLS 450 and GLS 580 and 2021 AMG GLS 63 models were recalled because a manufacturing error could leave the third-row seatback locks unable to hold in a crash. An unlatched seatback increases injury risk for third-row passengers and can let cargo move forward. Dealers inspect the seatbacks and replace them as needed. Since families often buy the GLS for the third row, this is worth confirming before purchase.

Sources: [5]

Chassis:

X167 (GLS 450)

Years:

2020–2023

Engine:

M256 3.0L inline-6 with EQ Boost

The GLS 450 shares the transmission-software recall filed in 2024 for about 105,000 2020–2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 models. In some conditions the 9-speed automatic does not fully downshift while the vehicle slows, which can stall the engine. Dealers reprogram the transmission control unit. The same trucks were also covered by 48-volt ground connection campaigns (22V-231 and 24V-207), so check all three numbers against the VIN. Recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer regardless of the vehicle's age or ownership history, and the NHTSA recall lookup shows whether the campaign is still open on a specific VIN.

Sources: [6][7][3]