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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE: common problems and reliability
One of the weaker GLE years.
175 owner complaints, most about engine. No recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 GLE?The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE has 175 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. Owners most often flag declining build quality (post-2020 models): increased interior rattles and creaks, body panel misalignment (e.g., gas cap not flush), sticky or faulty mechanical latches (third-row seats).
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other GLE years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the GLE?
Across the 11 GLE model years we track, complaint volume runs from 61 (2019) to 321 (2016). With 175 complaints, the 2021 GLE sits above the model's median of 123.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
What owners say across generations
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
- RecurrentDeclining build quality (post-2020 models)
Increased interior rattles and creaks, body panel misalignment (e.g., gas cap not flush), sticky or faulty mechanical latches (third-row seats).
Owner insights cover all generations of the GLE. See the full GLE owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used GLE listings typically run $21,499–$40,237.
Other GLE model years
Compare every GLE year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the GLE against its rivals
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