Avoid: 2007 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2014 · Best recent: 2016
10 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 10 model years, the Mercedes-Benz GL has 628 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and electrical system. 2007 drew the most complaints (123), 2016 the fewest (20).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mercedes-Benz GL vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2007 (123 complaints). Lowest: 2016 (20).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year, engine choice, and ownership expectations. The X164 generation (pre-2013) is described as a "dinosaur" with a less refined driving experience but is noted for its non-turbo engine reliability.
Components like the pump and air springs fail, leading to expensive repairs (quoted at ~$5k minimum).
Routine servicing, parts (e.g., brakes, tires), and repairs are significantly more expensive than mainstream brands; described as "flagship maintenance costs.".
Flaky blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, infotainment issues, and power seat malfunctions.
Causes shuddering or vibration, especially at higher mileage (e.g., 80k+ miles).
Failure due to oil separator problems gumming up flaps; requires replacement.
Owner insights cover all generations of the GL. Individual model years are broken down above.
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