2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS: common problems and reliability
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS has 38 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and engine. Owners most often flag exorbitant maintenance and repair costs — very frequent reports of routine dealer service visits costing $1,800-$2,200, with major repairs like air suspension or differential failure costing $5,000-$30,000. frequency: very frequent.
Safety record for the 2020 model year
38
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
3
Crash reports
1
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
electrical system
18
engine
9
fuel/propulsion system
8
forward collision avoidance
7
power train
4
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on ownership phase and powertrain. The vehicle is universally praised for its core attributes: exceptional ride comfort, often described as "like a magic carpet," spacious and comfortable third-row seating, a
Exorbitant maintenance and repair costs — very frequent reports of routine dealer service visits costing $1,800-$2,200, with major repairs like air suspension or differential failure costing $5,000-$30,000. Frequency: very frequent.
Air suspension failures — described as a "common" point of failure leading to very expensive repairs ($2,250 minimum, often $5,000+). Frequency: very frequent.
Premature tire and brake wear — rear tires last 15,000-20,000 miles; brake pads require frequent replacement; cited as an almost annual expense. Frequency: very frequent.
Engine oil consumption — noted as "normal" at higher mileage, requiring topping off between services. Frequency: recurrent.
Coolant leaks — mentioned as a recurring problem area. Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the GLS.
Typical used price
Used GLS listings typically run $23,950–$81,082 across 2017 to 2026 model years.