2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550

Recalls

3 recalls name the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550. Newest first.

• Communication › Auto crash notification

  Feb 5, 2021NHTSA 21V0580001,292,258 vehicles

  Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

  Remedy

  MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

  Full recall details →

• Service brakes, hydraulic

  Aug 16, 2018NHTSA 18V5390009,044 vehicles

  Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 4Matic, GLE350, GLS450 4Matic, GLS550 4matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic, GLE63 AMG 4Matic, GLE63S AMG 4Matic, and GLS63 AMG 4Matic vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may not have been correctly coated, causing gas to become temporarily released into the rear brake…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

  Remedy

  MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the rear axle brake system, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018080013.

  Full recall details →

• Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch

  Dec 18, 2017NHTSA 17V8160008,700 vehicles

  Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017 GLE400 4Matic, GLE350 4Matic, GLE350, GLE550e 4Matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic, GLE63 AMG 4Matic, GLS450, GLE63S 4Matic, GLS63 4Matic, S550e, S600, S63 AMG 4Matic, S65 AMG, S550, Mercedes-Maybach S600, Mercedes-Maybach S550 4Matic, GLE43 AMG 4Matic Coupe, GLE63S 4Matic Coupe, 2017-2018 GLS550 4Matic, S550…

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  If the door appears to be locked, the door may be unintentionally opened, increasing the risk of injury.

  Remedy

  MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left rear door lock, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in January 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Unknown or other2
2. Power train1
3. Seat belts1
4. Electrical system1
5. Suspension1
6. Visibility/wiper1
7. Service brakes, air1

Latest complaints

• Jul 6, 2026ME75,045 mi
  Suspension
  The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal clicking sound when making a right turn, and an abnormal ticking sound at startup. There was no warning light illuminated. Another driver informed the contact that the…

  The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal clicking sound when making a right turn, and an abnormal ticking sound at startup. There was no warning light illuminated. Another driver informed the contact that the front passenger-side wheel was loose and followed the contact to the residence. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the sway bar needed to be replaced; however, the sway bar was only adjusted. The contact stated that the failure had recurred. The dealer was notified and informed the contact that the vehicle was safe to drive. The manufacturer was contacted and advised that any additional repairs would be at the owner's expense. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,045.

• Mar 10, 2024MD
  Unknown or other · Visibility/wiper

  Water collects at the front row floor at driver and passenger sides

• Aug 19, 2021NY4,500 mi
  Service brakes, air › Disc › Rotor
  The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes Benz GLS550. The contact stated that when the brake pedal was depressed there was an abnormal noise detected. The brake warning indicator light was illuminated. The contact stated that the brake pad on one side of the disc was completely worn, and the other side of…

  The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes Benz GLS550. The contact stated that when the brake pedal was depressed there was an abnormal noise detected. The brake warning indicator light was illuminated. The contact stated that the brake pad on one side of the disc was completely worn, and the other side of the disc was like new with a full thick pad. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and the contact was informed that the brake rotor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 4,500. Consumer stated problem lies with the unevenness of the brake pad on both sides of the front wheels.

• Jan 6, 2020FL32,000 mi
  Electrical system · Seat belts
  Seatbelt had tightened and not released when my body moves. Brakes are not applied. Typically during driving I'm small enough to maneuver my hand down to release red seat belt button. *tr I've had to stop my vehicle 5-10 times to release belt. I have 2 small kids 7/ 11 both are 60 pounds…

  Seatbelt had tightened and not released when my body moves. Brakes are not applied. Typically during driving I'm small enough to maneuver my hand down to release red seat belt button. *tr I've had to stop my vehicle 5-10 times to release belt. I have 2 small kids 7/ 11 both are 60 pounds they are 4 feet tall and 4'6' 7 year old still uses booster I''ve checked belts to the best of my ability but I'm 110 lbs 5'2' and have no mechanical training or experience or certifications this has been noted to mercedes and the problem IS never really discussed. the vehicle was operating under all conditions noted below

• Nov 29, 2018TX7,000 mi
  Unknown or other
  I was driving in a rural area when all of a sudden I heard what sounded like an explosion. my first instinct was that I had blown a tire because it was so loud. However, the car was handling fine and no warning messages came on. my husband and I both said "what was that?" everything on seemed…

  I was driving in a rural area when all of a sudden I heard what sounded like an explosion. my first instinct was that I had blown a tire because it was so loud. However, the car was handling fine and no warning messages came on. my husband and I both said "what was that?" everything on seemed fine mechanically so we kept driving, but a bit shaken by the sudden loud noise. I few hours later we stopped for gas. as my husband went to clean the windshield he noticed the shatter of the glass roof panel. we thought back to the incident earlier and realized that must have been the sound me heard. the weird thing was at the time no one was around us. no car had been in front of us to be throwing up rocks. we were on a rural highway. the speed limit on that stretch of road was 80 mph. the temperature outside was approximately 65 degrees, so not extreme. I took the car to the dealership and they said it looked it something hit it at "the sweet spot" that caused it to crack all the way across and then up both sides and they refused to cover it. mind you I already had two chips in my windshield from rocks from a gravel truck I was behind a month prior and they sounded nothing like this sound. the worrisome part was that the sound was so shocking, if I had been driving near anyone it might have caused an accident because I was so startled at the time.

• Jun 14, 2018MN199 mi
  Power train
  While in motion on a highway in stop and go traffic, car shifted itself from drive to neutral without any driver input. All indicator lights on dash turned on. Driver unable to shift from neutral back to drive to regain control of vehicle. Driver could only shift to park. Driver shifted vehicle to…

  While in motion on a highway in stop and go traffic, car shifted itself from drive to neutral without any driver input. All indicator lights on dash turned on. Driver unable to shift from neutral back to drive to regain control of vehicle. Driver could only shift to park. Driver shifted vehicle to park and tried to shift to drive, but was unable to do so. Driver turned off ignition and restarted car, at which point driver was able to shift the vehicle into drive. Driver reports no user error (i.e. Did not accidentally hit the shifter, did not hit engine on/off button) and no indicator lights were present prior to incident. Vehicle was brand new: owned for approximately 10 days with 199 miles at the time of accident. Vehicle had been purchased with 6 miles on odometer.

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.

• 11010907Complaint The flap of the reversing camera opens and closes by itself during forward travel. This happens several times during the trip. The customer notices the sound of opening and closing. No camera image is displayed in the head unit. The reversing camera or the 360 system functions normally when activated manually or by engaging drive range "R". This behavior occurs again during each driving cycle. Cause This is not a malfunction, but an intended system behavior: Calibration of the reversing camera is in progress. For this, the cover on the camera is opened for max. 5 cumulative minutes in forward travel. The calibration can be performed if the vehicle speed is < 35 km/h and the steering wheel angle is < 10 (for early vehicles from MFA2 facelift model series such as A-Class, CLA, etc., the 35 km/h (~22 MPH) opening limit may only be reached after the SCN coding is replaced). If the speed of 35 km/h (~22 MPH) is exceeded, the camera retracts and the calibration is therefore aborted. The sequence is started again once the speed returns to the range of 18 km/h (~11 MPH). Remedy Complete the calibration successfully. For this, the vehicle must be driven forwards for a certain time (usually significantly less than one minute) at a speed < 35 km/h (~22 MPH) and a steering wheel angle < 10. This should occur during daylight and without a vehicle following too closely (the camera must be able to see the asphalt). When calibration is successful, the camera flap closes automatically at an unchanged speed. For the rest of the driving cycle, the camera now only opens if the customer requests this, for example by applying the reverse gear. When starting a new driving cycle (ignition change), another calibration is required. The customer can generally perform calibration at the first attempt when a speed in the range between 15 km/h (~9 MPH) and 35 km/h (~22 MPH) is briefly maintained and can therefore play a significant role in reducing the actuation frequency and therefore also the noticeability of the noise to a minimum. In the case of early MFA2 facelift vehicles (A-Class, CLA, etc.), the parking control unit may have to be SCN-coded again to have the complete speed window available for the calibration.
• 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.
• 11010755Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see picture 1). In the control unit log of the "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)", the registration error "CEP Invalid VIN/UniqueID combination" is displayed. In vehicles with "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)": The actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see picture 1). In the control unit log of the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the registration error "CEP_ VIN_UNIQUEID_INVALID" is displayed. The emergency call is not impaired. Cause In the event of a control unit replacement, sporadic problems in the back end could result in data from the new control unit not being updated in the back end system. Remedy Please create a TIPS case. In some cases, the problem rectifies itself on its own after a little while.
• 11010750Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements. Sound file attached for comparison. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. For 192 and 232: Only affects vehicles up to FIN vehicle identification end number. If vehicle falls outside of FIN range, create a TIPS case. Model series 192: xxx xxx xx 002 876 Model series 232: xxx xxx xx 022 312 Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present, perform Operation A again. 3. If noise is still present after re-testing, perform Operation B. Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with Molykote (annular joint grease) (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). Operation B: 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.
• 11010455Complaint Only vehicles with a variable transfer case are affected. Can be identified through control unit N45 or N15/7 in the quick test When accelerating with light load, vibrations or jolting sensation may come from the drivetrain Cause Modified oil quality of the transfer case over time Remedy Check initial quick test for faults in the following control units N45 - All-wheel drive (ARS) N127 - 'Drivetrain' (PTCU) control unit Y3/8 - Transmission control for 9-gear transmission (VGS) N3/10 - Engine electronics for combustion engine If faults are present, process them as per the guided test in Xentry If no faults are present: Check the oil level of the transmission If the oil level is correct: Unplug the connector for the transfer cases control unit Reassess the vehicle on a subsequent test drive If the complaint no longer occurs: Perform an oil change of the transfer case according to WIS specifications After please complete all transfer case Tech-in processes located under VG control unit Adaptations tab - Resetting the oil service data - Calibration of N15/7 Perform road test of vehicle to bring transmission to operating temperature ( >60C ) Operate vehicle in full circle with steering at full lock - 5x to the left - 5x to the right Reassess the vehicle following the oil change and teach in If the problem continues to occur with the plug removed or after the oil change has been carried out: Create a TIPS case with the following data Initial quick test with fault freeze frame data EEPROM data from Y3/8 Transmission control unit EEPROM data from N45 All-wheel drive Injector performance data
• 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.
• 11008880Complaint After a control unit replacement of "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" or the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the Digital Extras (previously Mercedes me) cannot be activated. The DTC B15CE00 is active or active+saved. In vehicles with "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)": The message "SOS - service not activated" permanently lights up in the instrument cluster AND the actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see picture 1). In the control unit log of the "N112/9 - control unit for telematics services (HERMES)", the registration error "CEP Invalid VIN/UniqueID combination" is displayed. In vehicles with "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)": The actual value "Error when replacing certificate (CEP.36)" is displayed in the actual values for the activation status under "Registration status" (see picture 1). In the control unit log of the "N112/2 - control unit for telematics services (RAMSES)", the registration error "CEP_ VIN_UNIQUEID_INVALID" is displayed. The emergency call is not impaired. Cause In the event of a control unit replacement, sporadic problems in the back end could result in data from the new control unit not being updated in the back end system. Remedy Please create a TIPS case. In some cases, the problem rectifies itself on its own after a little while.
• 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.
• 11008070Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements. Sound file attached for comparison. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. For 192 and 232: Only affects vehicles up to VIN vehicle identification end number. If vehicle falls outside of VIN range, create a TIPS case. Model series 192: xxx xxx xx 182881 Model series 232: xxx xxx xx 182883 Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present, perform Operation A again. 3. If noise is still present after re-testing, perform Operation B. Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with Molykote (annular joint grease) (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). Operation B: 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.
• 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
• 11007790Complaint Headlamps fogged or droplets forming. Cause Due to the housing cover with pressure compensation diaphragm, the headlamps are a "closed system". This means that the headlamps are protected against acid gases, dirt and exhaust gas. However, moisture can still enter from two sources. Through absorption and desorption (the commonest cause) or through permeation. Moisture is either absorbed by the plastic material and, when the light source is switched on, it is released from the plastic by desorption, or the moisture penetrates through the plastic materials of the headlamp from outside (permeation). This can lead to the formation of condensation on the lens of the headlamp. The headlamps comply with all applicable US standards and regulations. Remedy Check headlamps for natural fogging or condensation as per LI82.10-P-078301. If a reduction in the degree of fogging is visible, the desiccant packs can be used once the condensation has completely evaporated. Note: Order service covers and desiccant packs based on the validity description. 1. Remove existing service cover with diaphragm (Picture_01 (1)). 2. Insert desiccant packs (Picture_01 (2)) into new service covers with diaphragm and seal with protective grille and bolt down (Picture_01 (3)). Note: One desiccant pack is required for each small service cover, and two desiccant packs are required for each large service cover. 3. Stick the supplied diaphragm onto the new service cover and attach at the headlamp. Note: The bonding surface must be clean and dry. 4. If the headlamp housing has an additional 2nd diaphragm, this must be covered over with masking tape. Note: The bonding surface must be clean and dry. To ensure that the desiccant pack (absorption) acts effectively, the headlamp has to be air-sealed. Observe or check the following points for this: 1. Seals at the central connector must all be present and correctly fitted (Picture_02). 2. The new transparent diaphragm must be correctly bonded (Picture_03). 3. Check headlamp housing for any external damage.
• 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
• 11007728Complaint To insure vehicle down time is kept at a minimum and all required information is available when case is escalated, as well as assist technicians with checks that may help lead in resolving issue without case creation. THIS LI IS NOT TO BE USED AS A REASON FOR CASE CREATION BUT AS A GUIDE IF A CASE IS NEEDED Cause There are, at times, additional steps workshops can do to help diagnose and rectify transmission complaints. Remedy When opening a case for transmissions a EEPROM, Quick Test, and VGS CUL are absolutely necessary Please also check for any relevant LIs before opening case. Also, recommend having customer fill out Transmission Drivability Diagnostic Worksheet especially if complaint is hard to reproduce or intermittent (Work sheet Location: Xentry Portal >> Local Contents >> Diagnostic Info>> Diagnostic Worksheets ) If a previous repair attempt or visit was made for the same concern please include the date, mileage, and case number if applicable of that repair/visit with a short description of what was done. Follow IPR: ( LI27.00-P-073124 ) All IPR suggestions are covered by warranty and there is no need for cases to confirm IPR. Complete IPR suggestions and close out IPR process. If complaint is not fixed and IPR still suggests the same repair once closed out and run again, then a case may be needed. Transmission Health page is a good indicator of issues within transmission if clutch or brake pack stays NOK after adaptions and unable to be made to a green OK then an internal fault is present. Proceed with replacing affected clutch pack. IF more than 3 are red and NOK replace transmission (include printout with warranty claims) **** FOR 167 chassis with M264 engine B08 may be red and NOK, IGNORE this, B08 is still okay **** Shift complaints: Note: AMG variants are known to have a harsher shift see LI27.60-P-075147 It is always worth comparing to a like vehicle if possible to see if shift is uncharacteristic Perform Valve flushing procedure Perform 5 Torque Converter adaptions in a row (Save the results page) Perform standstill adaptions (Save the results page) Drive adaptions if necessary: Drive C mode keep RPM between 2000-2200rpm and lightly let off pedal to force shift wait 2-3 sec then roll on throttle to rpm back up to 2000-2300 rpm repeat for gears 1-3 *For gears 4-8 allow rpm up to 2700 and let off slightly to force upshift = repeat x 10 *For downshift - highest gear possible 8 or 9 - allow decel with light brake drag (allow at least 5s between downshifts for trans to adapt. Go down to 2nd and repeat x10 *Change to sport mode and repeat process again *Lock car to allow sleep at least 10min and restart and road test for quality. After adaptions a new EEPROM should be recorded and included with the original if opening a case Understand shift complaints need to be reproducible to address. If needed drive with client to reproduce the complaint. If shift complaint is intermittent a CAN trace of the issue occurring will be useful (see attached instructions) Shudder: If there is a shudder monitor torque convertor actual values to see if it occurs during slipping, Additionally can lock up convertor and drive to see if issue is resolved Jolting/Shudder: If the vehicle is AWD: unplug AWD control unit or drive vehicle in dyno mode to see if transfer case is causing the jolt/ harsh shift If located from transfer case check fluid and perform a flush if needed to try to rectify the issue. Vibrations: NVH trace is needed, what level vibration is being experienced and where is it located? Is the Vibration felt in neutral? Dyno mode? Does it change with speed? Etc. Noise complaint: Isolate the noise location using chassis ear. MUST attach a sound recording or video of the noise. Describe when the noise is present: Does it change with gear or speed? Does it occur with vehicle in neutral or in glide mode? Does operating temperature effect noise? Does incline/decline or steering angel effect noise?
• 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.
• 11005344Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic / 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G-TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis. This ensures an automated diagnosis process. Cause As part of the on-going quality monitoring process and associated quality and damaged part appraisals, a high number of ineffective repairs have been discovered. Such ineffective repairs have a negative impact on all those involved. For the customer, it means high costs and long repair times and for the dealer, it may result in the warranty claim being rejected. Remedy General note: IPR is available for: NAG3 Classic (automatic transmission 725.0) NAG3 - AMG sports models (AMG 43 and AMG 53 with converter) NAG3 - AMG 63 NAG3 - Hybrid
• 11005331Complaint Only vehicles with a variable transfer case are affected. Can be identified through control unit N45 or N15/7 in the quick test When accelerating with light load, vibrations or jolting sensation may come from the drivetrain Cause Modified oil quality of the transfer case over time Remedy Check initial quick test for faults in the following control units N45 - All-wheel drive (ARS) N127 - 'Drivetrain' (PTCU) control unit Y3/8 - Transmission control for 9-gear transmission (VGS) N3/10 - Engine electronics for combustion engine If faults are present, process them as per the guided test in Xentry If no faults are present: Check the oil level of the transmission If the oil level is correct: Unplug the connector for the transfer cases control unit Reassess the vehicle on a subsequent test drive If the complaint no longer occurs: Perform an oil change of the transfer case Reassess the vehicle following the oil change If the problem continues to occur with the plug removed or after the oil change has been carried out: Create a TIPS case with the following data Initial quick test with fault freeze frame data EEPROM data from Y3/8 Transmission control unit EEPROM data from N45 All-wheel drive Injector performance data
• 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).
• 10249726Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz, has determined that in certain MY 2017-2021 C-Class, CLA, CLS, E-Class, GLC, GLE, GLS, AMG GT, S-Class, SL, and SLC (205, 117, 257, 213/238, 253, 166/292, 190/290,217/222, 231, 172) vehicles, the software of the communication module does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. This free of charge update includes quality-enhancing optimizations for the communication module to improve the system stability and better availability of the Mercedes me services. The update is downloaded and installed in the background. This process takes approx. 15 minutes. During the installation, the system can be used without restrictions. The new software will be active after the vehicle has been switched off. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customers vehicle free of charge without an additional workshop visit via the data link of the communication module. All customers will be mailed a letter informing them of this software update.
• 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!
• 10244837The "SOS nonfunctional" message appears sporadically in the instrument cluster of the vehicle. The fault code B129C00 is stored in the control unit log. The message occurs in particular after the vehicle has been non-operational for an extended period of time; the message then disappears of its own accord after a few minutes. No functional limitation to the emergency call system is to be expected. Software error in N112/9 control unit for telematics services (HERMES). Software update for control unit N112/9 - Control unit for telematics services (HERMES) to software release E522.8. If, against expectations, the erroneous display of the message in the instrument cluster continues to occur following the update, please create a TIPS case.
• 10241527Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain MY 2018-2023 C-Class, EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, EQS SUV, GLC, GLE and S-Class (206, 295, 294, 297, 296, 254, 167 and 223 platform) vehicles, the communication module software does not correspond with the latest series production configuration. The update is free of charge and will be carried out in the background. The installation will eliminate software errors for a better entertainment experience. The update will show after the ignition has been cycled. MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. A workshop visit for the customer is not required since remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customers vehicle. The OTA may be validated as successful on the customers Mercedes Me connect app under Over-the-Air Vehicle Updates as Update for the communication module. If the OTA is successful it will show a green installed and date of installation in the Over-the-Air update section.
• 10206077"MY15+ M278 and M157 Equipped Vehicles with Fault Code ""P023400 Boost Pressure is Too High"" "
• 10205835Model series 167 noise on B/C/D pillars.
• 10205251Engine fan runs continuously, a/c inoperable or, engine light illuminates sporadically.
• 10205250Engine fan runs continuously, a/c inoperable or, engine light illuminates sporadically.
• 10205154Gasket may settle causing a slight oil leak.
• 10205147Ticking or pulsing noise from high-pressure pump and/or fuel injectors.
• 10195220For plug in hybrid and electric variants: Complaints about the electric range
• 10186145Creaking noise from fixed glass section of panoramic roof in area of rear passenger compartment grab handles
• 10181203Replace tank filler recess and information labels
• 10172683Information Label on Tire Sealant
• 10170531167 GLS headlight low beam fault
• 10167785G-Class Facelift 2018: Fault message "ABS, ESP inoperative, see operator's manual"
• 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.
• 10162631Outside mirror folding out/in nonfunctional
• 10162179Check right and left torsion bar linkage, replace if necessary
• 10158391Check front axle carrier and replace if necessary
• 10158372Vehicle does not start, battery discharged.
• 10158339Fault message "AIRMATIC" or "Active Curve System" in instrument cluster

Every Mercedes-Benz GLS 550 model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.