2015 Mercedes-Benz Glk-Class Safety Report

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a high volume of complaints related to its airbag system, despite having no active recalls listed in the provided data. With 132 total complaints, a significant 88 (66.7%) are attributed to AIR BAGS, often referencing the Takata airbag recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V010000) where parts were frequently unavailable, leaving owners with unrepaired safety defects. This issue is critical, as airbags are a primary safety restraint system, and their malfunction or delayed repair poses a substantial risk, contributing to 4 reported injuries and 1 death. Beyond the airbag concerns, other notable complaint patterns include fuel system issues (5 complaints), with several owners reporting strong gasoline odors and leaks, and power train/electrical system problems (4 complaints for electrical, 2 for power train, 2 for combined power train/electrical). Several complaints describe the vehicle abruptly shifting into park at low speeds (under 6 mph), which is a severe safety hazard, especially in traffic or during turns. Steering issues (3 complaints) also appear, with reports of the steering wheel locking or power steering failure. The vehicle has no NHTSA crash test ratings available (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), making it difficult to assess its structural crashworthiness based on official government tests. While the provided data indicates zero active recalls, it's crucial to note that many airbag complaints explicitly mention the Takata recall (19V010000) and the lack of available parts for repair. This suggests a significant safety issue that, while recognized by a recall, has not been adequately remedied for many owners. The combination of critical safety component failures (airbags, sudden shifting into park) and the lack of comprehensive crash test data means potential buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, especially regarding airbag recall completion and transmission performance.

Our recommendation: Given the high volume of unresolved airbag recall complaints and critical issues like sudden unintended shifting into park, exercise extreme caution. Ensure all recalls, especially for airbags, have been completed and thoroughly inspect for fuel leaks and transmission anomalies before purchase.