2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class Safety Report

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class: No Recalls, but Recurring Suspension and Brake Failures Reported

21Complaints
0Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
Most reported components: Suspension (2)Unknown Or Other (2)Service Brakes (2)Power Train (2)Service Brakes,Engine,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Service Brakes,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Unknown Or Other,Visibility/Wiper (1)Seats (1)Structure,Unknown Or Other (1)Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a concerning pattern of mechanical failures despite a lack of formal safety ratings from NHTSA. With 21 total complaints, the vehicle has been involved in 1 reported crash and 3 fires, though no injuries or deaths have been reported. A significant concern is the complete absence of recalls for this model year, suggesting that identified issues have not yet reached a threshold for manufacturer-mandated corrective action, leaving owners to address problems through dealerships or out-of-pocket. Analysis of complaint data reveals recurring issues across several critical components. The suspension system, particularly the air suspension, is a prominent problem, with multiple reports of failure leading to unsafe driving conditions. Brake issues are also frequently cited, including instances of complete brake failure and spongy pedal feel, which are severe safety hazards. Furthermore, there are multiple reports of panoramic sunroofs spontaneously shattering, a defect that, while not directly impacting vehicle control, poses a significant risk of injury from falling glass and driver distraction. The reported engine fires, though few, are also a serious concern. While NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2018 GLS-Class (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), the high number of complaints related to fundamental vehicle systems like brakes and suspension raises questions about the vehicle's inherent reliability and safety performance in real-world conditions. The lack of recalls for these critical issues is particularly noteworthy, as it places the burden of resolution squarely on the owners. The reported issues, especially those concerning braking and suspension, directly impact the vehicle's ability to prevent crashes, making them critical safety concerns.

Reliability Score

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Air Suspension Failure
Multiple reports of air suspension compressor cooling notifications, malfunction, and complete failure leading to an incredibly bumpy and unsafe ride. Often requires repeated dealership repairs.		 High Common unknown miles
Brake System Failure/Malfunction
Reports of brakes stopping while driving, spongy brakes, complete brake failure, and abnormal noises. One complaint mentions a vehicle accelerating forward into a building despite the brake pedal being depressed.		 High Common unknown miles
Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering
Several complaints describe the panoramic sunroof spontaneously exploding or shattering without external impact, causing a loud noise and potential for glass shards.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Engine Fire
One complaint details flames coming from the engine compartment after turning off the ignition, resulting in the vehicle being destroyed.		 High Rare unknown miles
Vehicle Shifting To Neutral/Losing Power
One report of the vehicle shifting from drive to neutral without driver input, losing power, and being unable to shift back to drive while in traffic.		 High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class:

Suspension 9% of complaints

Multiple complaints regarding air suspension failure, compressor issues, and resulting unsafe driving conditions.

Service Brakes 9% of complaints

Reports of brake failure, spongy pedal feel, abnormal noises, and issues with calipers.

Structure 4% of complaints

Complaints related to panoramic sunroof shattering and water collection on the floor.

Engine 4% of complaints

One complaint of an engine fire and another of an odor coming from the ventilations.

Power Train 9% of complaints

Issues including the vehicle shifting to neutral automatically and losing power.

Seats 4% of complaints

Problems with third-row seat not locking and seatbelt tightening/not releasing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class safe?

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has several concerning safety issues, particularly with its suspension and brake systems, despite having no official NHTSA crash test ratings or recalls. There are 21 total complaints, including 1 crash and 3 fires, but no reported injuries or deaths. The recurring nature of critical component failures suggests potential safety risks.

What are common problems with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

The most reported issues for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class include air suspension failures (9.5% of top complaints), brake system malfunctions (9.5%), and spontaneous shattering of the panoramic sunroof (4.8%). Other problems include engine fires, power train issues like unintended shifting to neutral, and seat-related problems.

Are there any recalls for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

No, according to the provided data, there are currently no recalls issued by NHTSA for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, despite a number of serious complaints regarding critical safety components.

How does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class perform in crash tests?

NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. All categories, including Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover, are listed as 'N/A'.

What should I look out for if considering a used 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

If considering a used 2018 GLS-Class, pay close attention to the suspension system for any signs of malfunction or previous repairs, thoroughly test the brakes for proper function and feel, and inspect the panoramic sunroof for any signs of damage or previous replacement. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles is highly recommended to identify these known issues.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the recurring critical safety complaints regarding suspension and brakes, and the absence of recalls, potential buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known issues.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class. The data includes 21 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.