CarRecallWatchThe 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 14 complaints with NHTSA, including 1 crash, 3 fires.
The most-reported problem area is Suspension (3 reports).
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 recalls
Emergency call system may fail to connect in a crash
A software error in the communication module's SIM card can cause a mobile network connection failure.
Crash Alert May Send Responders to Wrong Location
Certain 2016-2017 Mercedes-Benz vehicles have a software problem in the communication module that runs the automatic crash notification (eCall) system.
Rear brakes may lose stopping power, raising crash risk
Some 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS models may have rear brake caliper pistons that were not coated correctly.
Most common 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 problems
Problem areas named in the 14 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Suspension | 3 |
| Service Brakes | 3 |
| Electrical System | 2 |
| Structure | 2 |
| Engine | 2 |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 |
| Steering | 1 |
| Power Train | 1 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 |
| Unknown Or Other | 1 |
What owners report
January 2023 - Airbag suspension failed. Replaced by Mercedes dealership. December 2024 - Airbag suspension failed. Replaced by Mercedes dealership. April 2024: First brake failure. The brakes stopped while driving. Repaired. April 2025: Second brake failure. Brakes failed again. Repaired. The mechanic stated the line was too close to the wheelbase, resulting in a pinpoint-sized hole. No warning lights. July 2025: Engine failure - the vehicle experienced a complete shutdown while driving with no warning lights. Vehicle in shop for 6-8 weeks for engine replacement by certified Mercedes mechanic. Post-engine replacement (July - Nov 2025) - Severe oil leaks at left cylinder head, small lea
Brake brakes are terrible. They have other years that theyâve acknowledge that the break are spongy and at times does not break the GLS has that defect. Also smell of gas fumes inside the vehicle. Please direct me the right way and help me with this issue. The brake issue almost have caused me two major accidents car doesnât stop mechanic says this is a Mercedes issue You may contact me at [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
When attempting to rise/lower the automatic suspension, the compressor cooling notification pops up, followed by a malfunction. After this occurs, the vehicle is incredibly bumpy, to the point of it being unsafe to drive. The vehicle has been repaired twice already by the dealership under extended warranty and the condition has occurred a third time in less than three weeks. This is our family vehicle, and we cannot drive it due to the risk of shaken baby syndrome for our infant because of how much it bumps. Videos are available to show just how bad it is.
This 2018 gls 450 has issues with suspension system. Bought this car in 2023 and using since Jna 2023 and suspension system failed like 3 -4 times. Mechanic changed the air compressor , valves and others and still the car has same issue. It used to lift the car to adequate height but the compressor keeps on pushing it to cause teh compressor to fail.
Third row seat will not lock. Warning message came on several months ago. I brought the vehicle in for service in may of 2022 to Mercedes Benz of Westwood MA. They neglected to repair the issue with the seat and returned the car back to me with the safety issue still unresolved. I spoke with the dealer and Mercedes Benz USA and they refuse to repair the vehicle under warranty even though it was still covered under the factory warranty. [XXX], the service manager at the dealership informed me that the third row seat motor needs to be replaced in order for the seat to lock. He said it is a very common problem with my model vehicle and that is the reason why the manufacturer wont cover the cost
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 questions
Does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450: Emergency call system may fail to connect in a crash; Crash Alert May Send Responders to Wrong Location; Rear brakes may lose stopping power, raising crash risk. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450?
Based on 14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Suspension (3), Service Brakes (3), Electrical System (2).
How do I check if a recall on my 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.