2016 Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class Safety Report

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class presents a mixed safety picture based on the available NHTSA data. With a total of 19 complaints, it's important to note that this is a relatively low number for a vehicle of its age, suggesting that widespread, systemic issues might not be prevalent. However, the complaints include one reported crash and one fire, indicating that some incidents have had serious outcomes. There are no reported injuries or deaths, which is a positive aspect. Common complaint patterns reveal several recurring themes. 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' components account for the highest number of complaints (4), followed by 'SEATS' (3) and 'STEERING' (2). Specific issues highlighted in complaints include spontaneous sunroof shattering, which appears in multiple reports, and issues with the tailgate opening unexpectedly while driving. Other concerns involve electrical system failures, such as the cluster panel stopping, and problems with the air conditioning system producing a musty odor. The 'SEATS' complaints specifically mention issues with the second-row headrests being uncomfortable and potentially unsafe for children or shorter adults. Regarding recall history, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has 0 recalls listed, which is unusual and could mean that potential safety defects identified by manufacturers or NHTSA have not yet led to formal recall campaigns, or that the vehicle has been largely free of recall-worthy issues. This absence of recalls contrasts with some of the recurring issues seen in the complaints, particularly the steering-related complaints which sometimes reference recall campaign 17V241000, suggesting a potential disconnect or delayed action. Crash test performance data from NHTSA is not available for this specific model year, making it impossible to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. Overall, while the low complaint count is reassuring, the nature of some complaints, such as spontaneous fires, unexpected tailgate openings, and sunroof shattering, points to potentially serious safety concerns. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings and zero recalls means that a comprehensive safety assessment is challenging, and potential buyers should be aware of the specific issues reported by owners.

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but presence of serious issues like sunroof shattering and unexpected tailgate openings, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, especially the sunroof and tailgate mechanisms, and be aware of the lack of NHTSA crash test ratings and recalls.