2021 Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class Safety Report

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a concerning pattern of electrical system failures and a lack of official crash test ratings. With 35 total NHTSA complaints, including 2 crashes, 2 fires, and 2 injuries, the vehicle has demonstrated some significant safety-related issues. A major concern is the repeated failure of the 48-volt battery system, which has led to vehicles stalling at high speeds and in traffic, posing a severe risk of accidents. This issue is frequently cited in complaints, with multiple instances of vehicles losing power and acceleration, and dashboards lighting up with warnings. The two reported fires, one originating from under the passenger seat, are also alarming, especially given a complaint referencing a recall for this specific issue, though no official recall for the 2021 model is listed in the provided data. Beyond the electrical system, other notable complaint patterns include spontaneous sunroof explosions, which have caused distraction and distress to drivers, and issues with rear wheels developing cracks, leading to tire pressure loss. While there are no official NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), the nature of the complaints, particularly those involving sudden power loss and vehicle fires, suggests potential vulnerabilities that could impact occupant safety in real-world scenarios. The absence of recalls for the 2021 model, despite recurring critical issues like the 48-volt battery failure and fires, is a point of concern, indicating that some widespread problems may not yet have been addressed through official campaigns. In summary, while the 2021 GLS-Class has not undergone formal crash testing by NHTSA, the complaint data reveals a troubling trend of electrical system malfunctions, particularly the 48-volt battery, which can lead to dangerous stalls. The reported fires and sunroof explosions further highlight significant safety concerns. The vehicle's safety profile is significantly impacted by these recurring, potentially life-threatening issues, despite a relatively low overall complaint count for a luxury vehicle.

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of significant electrical system reliability concerns, particularly the 48-volt battery, and potential fire risks. Thorough pre-purchase inspections focusing on the electrical system and a review of any pending or unlisted recalls are highly recommended.