2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes-Benz › GL450 › 2012
These records cover every 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. Newest first.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 24, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MMUSA's number for this recall is 2024050001/2. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-315.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML-Class, GL-Class, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2022050014, 2022050015 2022090006, & 2022090007.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 ML320 BlueTec 4Matic, GL320 BlueTec 4Matic and R320 CDI 4Matic, 2011 E350 Cabriolet and E550 Cabriolet, 2009-2011 ML350, ML350 4Matic, ML550 4Matic, ML63 AMG, and C63 AMG, 2010-2011 ML450 4Matic Hybrid, E350 Coupe, E350 4Matic, E550 Coupe, E550 4Matic, and E63 AMG, 2011-2012 GL350…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
MBUSA will their notify owners, and Fiat Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler owners. Dealers for the respective brands will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. This recall began November 2016. Mercedes-Benz owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372 and Chrysler owners may contact Fiat Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Owner complaints
47 complaints3 involved a crash2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags · Service brakes
I was driving on the highway my break warning light came and when I tried pulling over car would not stop my break pedal went all the way to floor causing me to hit the back of another car and I had to get a tow
- Seat belts · Unknown or other
dash light in red keeps indicating SRS , also dash says SRS Malfunction front left service required, Pre-Safe Inoperative See operators Manuel. also seatbelt case falling off.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had stated that while depressing the brake pedal there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Unknown or other
Recently discovered that water intrusion in the back of my vehicle is coming from cracks (longitudinal and transverse) on its roof. The roof has no other damage that would have caused the cracks Upon discovery, I took it to my local MB dealership and the attendant that looked at it said he had…
Recently discovered that water intrusion in the back of my vehicle is coming from cracks (longitudinal and transverse) on its roof. The roof has no other damage that would have caused the cracks Upon discovery, I took it to my local MB dealership and the attendant that looked at it said he had never seen such cracks and know the cause. I followed up with the Mercedes Benz corporation, who requested for my VIN, and following review of my complaint told me that there was no recall affecting roof cracks for my vehicle. They suggested that I reach out to you (NHTSA online). I am not sure when these cracks developed. I was aware of it earlier this year. The water intrusion, when not dried and depending on what time of the year, could cause mold which can seriously affect the occupants of the vehicle. It would be appreciated if you take a look at this, as well as if there are similar complaints on this GL450 models
- Service brakes
Breaks became unusable due to lost power break fluid caused by corrosion on the lines. Fluid was completely gone and breaks were not effective at all. Dashboard showed RED light with break error. Dealer confirmed that rust build up caused the failure.
- Seat belts
While I was driving the car, with the seat belt fastened, the seat belt suddenly popped out. This was a scary experience! Repeated attempts to fasten the seat belt again did not work. On closer inspection, it appears that something inside the fastening system was probably broken, and the seat belt…
While I was driving the car, with the seat belt fastened, the seat belt suddenly popped out. This was a scary experience! Repeated attempts to fasten the seat belt again did not work. On closer inspection, it appears that something inside the fastening system was probably broken, and the seat belt wasn't getting fastened in there. I immediately took the car to the dealer (Mercedes Benz of El Dorado Hills). After inspecting it, they were able to reproduce the issue (seat belt not getting fastened at all) and advised replacing the seatbelt system on the car. Unfortunately, they did not have the part in stock, so they advised that they would order the part and charge me $800 for this. I can't believe that a fundamental car safety system like this would fail like this. Imagine if there was a car accident and the seat belt just popped out of the fastener, not doing the job it was designed for? Thank you for investigating this issue. It could indeed save a lot of lives, if this is a widespread issue, necessitating a recall campaign from Mercedes.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact was notified that her vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The dealer had been notified about the recall and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact was notified that her vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The dealer had been notified about the recall and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the recall. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Power train · Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact stated that while merging onto a highway, the vehicle failed to upshift at 32 MPH, without warning. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle and was then able to resume normal driving. The contact stated that the failure recurred…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450. The contact stated that while merging onto a highway, the vehicle failed to upshift at 32 MPH, without warning. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle and was then able to resume normal driving. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
- Service brakes
I have been issued a stop drive order under recall ID# 22v315. I have contacted mercedes benz twice and been ignored twice. first call was around july 5th-2022 and second call was on july 12TH. they apparently do not care about your stop drive notice as no one has gotten back to me on this issue.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 450. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to stop the vehicle causing him to crash into the vehicle in front. There were no warning lights illuminated. Both air bags under the steering wheels…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 450. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to stop the vehicle causing him to crash into the vehicle in front. There were no warning lights illuminated. Both air bags under the steering wheels deployed. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The police arrived on the scene and filed a report. The front of the vehicle hood, bumper, and radiator was destroyed. There were no injuries or medical treatments. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The approximate failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train
After purchasing the vehicle used from a dealer (with @ 36,000 miles) I started having transmission problems within a year. When I would be stopped on a hill/incline and then accelerate the car would violently jerk (as if I had hit something). It would not go forward until after the sudden jerking…
After purchasing the vehicle used from a dealer (with @ 36,000 miles) I started having transmission problems within a year. When I would be stopped on a hill/incline and then accelerate the car would violently jerk (as if I had hit something). It would not go forward until after the sudden jerking motion stopped. It would also behave this way when I backed up a hill or incline. Every year I brought it to the dealer to diagnose and fix it and they told me that they couldn't reproduce it when they had the car, therefore they couldn't find out the problem. I also told them that the engine light would come on and off intermittently, however, they were unable to figure out the problem. Every time I took it in for a service they documented the problem on the estimate sheet. However, this last time I brought it in they were able to diagnose the problem as a faulty transmission. It would slip out of gear when on a hill or slight incline when put into drive or revers from a complete stop. Come to find out when researching these cars that mercedes have had this problem with their engines for a long time.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Steering · Suspension
The rear suspension became soft after the dealer did an intial check after I complained about the vehicle feeling unstable after speeds of 70mph. I had both air shocks changed in the rear. After two (2) months the front suspension on the passenger also started to leak causing the vehicle to…
The rear suspension became soft after the dealer did an intial check after I complained about the vehicle feeling unstable after speeds of 70mph. I had both air shocks changed in the rear. After two (2) months the front suspension on the passenger also started to leak causing the vehicle to suspension to automatically adjust in the front while driving or parked. This occured whether the vehicle was parked or in motion, highway or city streets.
- Air bags
Takata recall since january 2018 I have been waiting for the replacement parts to arrive for this recall. I have moved to canada and in order to transfer my vehicle there can be no outstanding recalls. I have been contacting mercedes for over a year yet they are unable to provide any answers…
Takata recall since january 2018 I have been waiting for the replacement parts to arrive for this recall. I have moved to canada and in order to transfer my vehicle there can be no outstanding recalls. I have been contacting mercedes for over a year yet they are unable to provide any answers as to when the repair will be done. this recall has been outstanding for far too long and IS preventing me from transferring my vehicle.
- Air bags
Takata recall. recall was issued in february 2016 and I'm still waiting for the airbag to be fixed. mercedes benz has failed to remedy my car in a timely manner and they have not offered any alternative solution, rental car or loaner car while I wait. it has been 39 months since the recall was issued and there IS no indication from mercedes when this will be fixed.
- Air bags
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 mercedes-benz gl450. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v081000 (air bags). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Autobahn motors (700 island pkwy, belmont, ca 94002…
TL* takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 mercedes-benz gl450. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 16v081000 (air bags). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Autobahn motors (700 island pkwy, belmont, ca 94002, (844) 896-1944) was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not available for the recall remedy. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Tires
On 3/27/2019 my vehicle was taken to tires plus in newnan, ga for purchase of 4 new tires- pacifically michelin ltx. When thoroughly reviewing receipt and invoice, I noticed several issues. Please see below the following: 1. My home address was incorrectly input into the system 2. Vin#: my…
On 3/27/2019 my vehicle was taken to tires plus in newnan, ga for purchase of 4 new tires- pacifically michelin ltx. When thoroughly reviewing receipt and invoice, I noticed several issues. Please see below the following: 1. My home address was incorrectly input into the system 2. Vin#: my pacific vin# was not listed under vin# section 3. I respectfully asked tireplus rep how do I go about registering my new tires? In response I was told ? He had never heard of registering tires?? I explained the importance to correct consumer info such as home address and particular vin# listed as well as either giving me a tire registration form for me to complete and submit to tire manufacturer (michelin) or to give me confirmation that he directly electronically submitted registration form directly to tire manufacturer. He explained, he had never heard of such protoca. Can someone please advise me as to how process works and how as a consumer I can go about verifying if my tires are properly registered for the purpose of possible future recall on notification(s) to me? Thank you for your time and efforts. [Xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *Tt
- Power train
Upon acceleration a clunking sound comes from within the transfer case. This vehicle has @ 148,000 mainly highway miles on it. This transfer case problem IS a premature failure and IS reminiscent of a similar problem mercedes had @ 12 years ago
- Air bags · Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc)
Nhtsa headquarters 1200 new jersey avenue SE. west building washington, dc 20590 tel: 1-(888)-327-4236 tel: 1-202-336-9550 email: nhtsa.webmaster@dot.gov web: www.nhtsa.gov ref: formal complaint - 2012 mercedes-benz 450 GL- the vehicle IS not safe to drive 1) failure to perform safety…
Nhtsa headquarters 1200 new jersey avenue SE. west building washington, dc 20590 tel: 1-(888)-327-4236 tel: 1-202-336-9550 email: nhtsa.webmaster@dot.gov web: www.nhtsa.gov ref: formal complaint - 2012 mercedes-benz 450 GL- the vehicle IS not safe to drive 1) failure to perform safety recall repair in timely manner - 2) refusal to conduct repair under its original manufacturer warranty 3) refusal to provide monetary compensation for defective auto parts & labor mr. Sir or madam, the purpose of this letter IS to notify the nhtsa that mercedes benz USA has failed to perform safety recall repairs in timely manner, and, the corporation has also refused to conduct repair under its warranty obligations for my 2012 mercedes-benz 450 GL (vin: xxxx) according to the us safety laws and regulations. this letter mandates that mercedes benz USA should perform all required safety recall repair for dysfunctional airbag inflators and defective rear door lock & motor for our corporate vehicle - 2012 mercedes-benz 450 GL in timely manner, not later than 15 days because : 1) mercedes benz USA has failed to reform original safety recall repairs during last two years ' since february 9, 2016. 2) a driver-side explosion during deployment could result in metal striking the front passenger or other occupants, possibly causing serious injury or death ' simply the vehicle IS not safe to drive. (See attached copies). parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).
- Air bags
Takata recall - I am filing this complaint because of the length of the recall going on for 3 years now, and still IS not complete. mercedes has several times pushed out the date that the parts would be available. now, mercedes IS showing that the parts will be available in june 2019. this IS a…
Takata recall - I am filing this complaint because of the length of the recall going on for 3 years now, and still IS not complete. mercedes has several times pushed out the date that the parts would be available. now, mercedes IS showing that the parts will be available in june 2019. this IS a dangerous problem that we are expected to continue to drive with the risk of potential injuries from the airbag inflator being faulty. they should find the means and parts to fix this issues as soon as possible. this shouldn't take over 3 years, and IS simply unacceptable.
- Air bags
Takata recall. Feb 09,2016 . Manufacturer recall number2018030011 nhtsa recall number16v081 why IS the recall statusrecall incomplete/.remedy still not yet available???? I have not experienced any direct issue but want to know why iknown problem IS not rectified?
- Fuel/propulsion system
There IS a strong odor of gas coming from the back drivers side wheel when parked and when driving. we haven't found any gas on the floor of our garage but definitely a strong gas smell and fumes. We have tried to fill the tank 1/2 way but it doesn't seem to help the smell/fumes are throughout our…
There IS a strong odor of gas coming from the back drivers side wheel when parked and when driving. we haven't found any gas on the floor of our garage but definitely a strong gas smell and fumes. We have tried to fill the tank 1/2 way but it doesn't seem to help the smell/fumes are throughout our entire house including the 3RD floor when the car IS parked in the garage. I am worried about it exploding or catching on fire. I have read online of other mercedes leaking gas and wonder if this IS happening to anyone else who owns a GL 450?
- Suspension
4-5 miles into driving airmatic malfunction appears on my dashboard ( picture of an straight up arrow in the middle of car picture) when I increase the speed to 50 miles the tachometer goes crazy and I hear loud sound. Car has less than 50 000 miles.
- Suspension
At around 60K miles, I had to replace the automatic suspension on both of the front tires (around $3,000). now I'm having issues with the back and will probably have to replace them as well at 69K miles.
- Air bags
I received 2 letter from mercedes benz USA regarding the air bag recall. The 1ST letter gave me a date in march for replacement. The 2ND letter stated my airbag would be replaced in july 2018. When I called the dealership they stated the replacements have yet to be received and to call mercedes corporate
- Suspension
Car just reached 90K miles with limited driving. The airmatic suspension has been acting oddly for the past month - I would find it low in the rear in the morning after being parked in a flat garage. The next day the entire car would be lowered. Whe IS turn off the car, you would hear air being…
Car just reached 90K miles with limited driving. The airmatic suspension has been acting oddly for the past month - I would find it low in the rear in the morning after being parked in a flat garage. The next day the entire car would be lowered. Whe IS turn off the car, you would hear air being released. Today, when parked, there was a loud explosion, the car shook for a few minutes and then the entire thing sank to the wheel wells. Assume the compressor has exploded and after reading various posts, this IS a common problem with all mercedes that have airmatic suspensions and should be fixed/recalled by mercedes.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant…
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010818Complaint Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (fully integrated transmission control unit (VGS)) not listed in quick test and/or no communication possible with VGS. Cause Transmission control unit Y3/8n4 Remedy It is important that LI54.15-P-057373 is processed before replacing any component parts (transmission 722.9). After processing and complying with the above documents, perform a reset on the transmission control unit Y3/8n4 (VGS) (ignition reset), check that the transmission connector is seated correctly and inspect the PINs for concerns. If communication with the VGS cannot be established afterwards, the component part 'electrohydraulic controller unit (EHS)' must be replaced, as it is not possible to transfer the valve characteristics under the above-mentioned conditions. Installation of a VGS repair kit is not permitted in this case.
- 11009122Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer line by animal. 5. Seal on heating washer fluid reservoir/washer fluid reservoir. Remedy Replace defective component parts only. Do not replace any adjacent component parts that are intact. Note: Repair kits for washer line hoses do exist to allow patches for line damage.
- 11008091Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protruding material residues of the microphone cutout at the headliner, e.g. with a soldering iron. The microphone must be seated in the headliner as shown in picture "2". 4. Push microphone from behind until it is firmly pressed into the headliner 5. Maintain pressure and press/clip cap into microphone from the front. Note: The cover cap must be clearly heard and felt to engage. 6. This procedure must be carried out on both microphones (B25/20 and B25/21) Note: It is recommended to replace the cover caps. The non-woven cloth in the cover cap protects the microphone from soiling and must not be removed. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools and equipment. It informs service technicians about conditions that could occur in certain vehicles and provides information that could assist in proper vehicle diagnosis, service, or repair. It does not indicate that a defect is present in any vehicle referenced in this document nor does it imply warranty coverage. DO NOT assume that a symptom or condition, or a described cause of a symptom or condition, affects any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles, or that a described repair applies to any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles. There can be multiple causes resulting in the same or similar symptoms or conditions described in this document, and trained professional service technicians must use their diagnostic skills to make evaluations on a case-by-case basis. The information contained in this document does not guarantee warranty coverage nor does it extend the vehicles warranty in any way.
- 11008064In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance and quality of your vehicle, we are writing to inform you that on certain Model Year 2011-2018 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, G-Class, CL, CLS, ML, GL, GLE, GLS, GLC, SL, and AMG GT vehicles with 6 and 8 cylinder gasoline engines, the software of the engine control unit may not meet current specifications. Under certain conditions, the catalyst heating might not work. Therefore, an Emission Service Campaign is being conducted to remedy the situation. Our records indicate that your vehicle is included in the affected population of vehicles.
- 11007974Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (picture 3). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is not leaky and the problem is down to natural physical fogging. If a pressure drop of more than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Note: Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. See: LI82.10-P-064766 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
- 11007753Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in the formation of condensation, check the headlamp for a defect. (See Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A Damaged headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness in accordance with LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. Open ventilation system: LI82.10-P-064766. Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
- 11006658Mercedes-Benz AG ("MBAG"), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (MY) C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, G-Class, CL, CLS, ML, GL, GLE, GLS, GLC, SL, and AMG GT (204, 205, 207, 212, 213, 217, 221, 222, 463, 216, 218, 166, 292, 253, 231, and 190 platforms) vehicles with 6 and 8 cylinder gasoline engines, the software of the engine control unit may not meet current specifications. Under certain conditions, the catalyst heating might not work. MBUSA will conduct an Emission Service Campaign. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the engine control unit software on the affected vehicles. Affected customers will be notified via First Class letter to have the update performed on their vehicle.
- 11005294Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation -> a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (defogging progress).
- 10248173Mercedes-Benz AG ("MBAG"), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (MY) 2009-2012 GL-Class, ML-Class, R-Class, and S-Class (164/166, 251, 221 platforms) vehicles, the coding for the engine control unit does not correspond to the specifications as part of the BlueTEC update diesel field measure (aka Emission Modification). This could result in the VIN number not being read out from the vehicle. This could affect the vehicle smog check. MBUSA will conduct an Emission Service Campaign in which an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the SCN coding for the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.
- 10248162Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle). Light initial creases due to vehicle handling. Light creases in the outer covers originating from the production process (missing finish). Heat treatment of the seat covers using heat gun and plastic wedge. Be very careful to not overheat the seat material!
- 10235996Additional information around the recent recall announcement affecting approximately 705,983 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles involving Takata driver-side airbags containing PSDl-5 type inflators
- 10235978Recall Campaign announcement for Takata driver airbags.
- 10205249No cooling output, fault code 9006 stored in air conditioning control unit.
- 10205233Mobile phone cotacts are not transferred completely.
- 10205147Ticking or pulsing noise from high-pressure pump and/or fuel injectors.
- 10184799Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (?MBUSA?) has entered into an agreement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the California Attorney General?s Office (CA AG) regarding the emission control system in certain Mercedes-Benz diesel vehicles. As part of this agreement, MBUSA will offer field measures referred to as the Approved Emission Modification (?AEM?) for the affected vehicles. As a result, certain vehicles covered under this notification cannot be sold or caused to be sold, or leased or caused to be leased, or introduced into commerce, or exported from the United States to another country, until after the AEM described in this notification is performed.
- 10176670To enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a settlement regarding claims relating to alleged mold and mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system in certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As part of the settlement, MBUSA has agreed to offer sliding-scale warranty coverage for certain vehicles diagnosed as having mold or mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system?although that coverage will not take effect until the settlement is judicially approved and other events occur; likely not until December 7, 2020 at the earliest (see below). If the settlement becomes effective, coverage will include cleaning of the evaporator and replacement of the HVAC filters
- 10171637Retrofitted front door exit lamps with logo projection flicker
- 10167564Customer experiences low battery conditions, resulting in jump starts, and eventually requiring battery replacement.
- 10167563The COMAND unit does not start or the COMAND display remains dark. The COMAND unit cannot be operated. Note: The problem disappears after a lengthy idle period (>6h) or after interrupting the power supply (circuit 30).
- 10167546FC 2783 (Friction power of torque converter lockup clutch is too high) or FC 0741 (Actuation of torque converter lockup clutch not possible) stored in transmission control unit. One possible additional customer complaint could be "poor acceleration" e.g. due to engine intervention. This can affect all NAT2FE+ (7G-TRONIC PLUS) vehicles with engines OM651, OM642LS and M278 in the production period from 04/2011 to 02/2012 and with more than 10,000 km. The two fault codes can also occur in combination with rpm sensor faults (see also GI27.50-P-035556). The rpm sensor fault is not connected with this complaint.
- 10167498ESP warning message in instrument cluster. One of the fault codes C219700 or 630900 is logged in the ESP control unit (N30/4).
- 10167487Minor leaks at the oil duct of the left or right cylinder head of engines 157, 276 and 278. 1. Left cylinder head: Oil passage plug hole on left beside mechanical vacuum pump. 2. Right cylinder head: Oil passage plug hole below high-pressure pump housing.
- 10167040This Service Campaign has been initiated because Daimler AG (DAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that the mbrace software does not correspond to current production configuration. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the mbrace control module software at the next workshop visit.
- 10167019Blind Spot Assist inoperative.
- 10166988Collision Prevention Assist (CPA) may warn for no obvious reason (optical and/or acoustic warning message).
- 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
- 10166975This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon Telematics systems. If the i-button call failed or if the customer was unable to perform the i-button call, the mbrace agent instructed the customer to make an appointment with their dealer to have the issue corrected and/or i-button call performed. The vehicles impacted range from model year 2002 to 2014.
- 10166097Electric motor for the folding rear backrest of the 3rd seat row is inoperative or makes noises during adjustment
- 10166096The release loop of the Easy Entry seat in the 2nd seat row is awkward to operate as it is difficult to access
- 10135970Delayed 2-3 Upshift
- 10135716Headlamp lights up sporadically
- 101356252nd seat row Power Easy Entry function impairment of backrest folding
- 10059862Summary to be provided on a future date.
- 10059570Summary to be provided on a future date.
- 10059567Summary to be provided on a future date.
Every Mercedes-Benz GL450 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.