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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints

What the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.

  • 0safety recalls
  • 56owner complaints
  • 8crash reports
  • 1fire report
  • 11%fail the UK MOT

56 complaints, against an average of 63 for the other 10 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class model years.

Every Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.

What goes wrong with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

The components named most often in the 56 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.

  1. Power Train10 (17.9%)
  2. Electrical System9 (16.1%)
  3. Service Brakes8 (14.3%)
  4. Vehicle Speed Control6 (10.7%)
  5. Exterior Lighting4 (7.1%)
  6. Steering4 (7.1%)
  7. Structure4 (7.1%)
  8. Diesel3 (5.4%)

What symptoms do 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class owners describe?

Found by reading the text of all 56 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.

Has the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class been recalled?

NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class as of October 25, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class recalled in the UK or Europe?

Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.

UK DVSASRPC2405 - Bolting of 48V ground connectionBolting of 48V ground connection Recall R/2024/173 · Apr 23, 2024 · built Nov 2018 to Dec 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles the 48V ground connection under the passenger seat might have come loose.

Fix: Check the bolting of the ground connection and correct it if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSASRPC 2402 - Downshift operation transmission software Recall R/2024/131 · Mar 25, 2024 · built Nov 2018 to Mar 2023 · Risk and fix

Risk: On certain vehicles the software of the transmission control unit might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the transmission control unit software on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAInstallation of A/C drain hoses Recall R/2023/092 · Apr 26, 2023 · built Nov 2018 to Jun 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: On certain vehicles the air conditioning drain hoses might be incorrectly fitted in the vehicle.

Fix: Check the air conditioning drain hoses and correct their installation if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAOn affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well.On affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well. The water could briefly come into contact with the fuel pump control unit impairing the fuel supply to the engine. Recall R/2023/021 · Feb 20, 2023 · built Sep 2011 to Nov 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well. The water could briefly come into contact with the fuel pump control unit impairing the fuel supply to the engine.

Fix: Install a water drain plug in the spare wheel well check for water infiltration and replace the fuel pump control unit if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAOn affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well.On affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well. The water could briefly come into contact with the fuel pump control unit impairing the fuel supply to the engine. Recall R/2023/022 · Feb 20, 2023 · built Apr 2015 to Jun 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles water might accumulate in the spare wheel well. The water could briefly come into contact with the fuel pump control unit impairing the fuel supply to the engine.

Fix: Install a water drain plug in the spare wheel well check for water infiltration and replace the fuel pump control unit if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe bolting of the 48v ground connection under the passenger seat might be fastened with an insufficient torque Recall R/2022/133 · May 24, 2022 · built Nov 2018 to Sep 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The bolting of the 48V ground connection under the passenger seat might be fastened with an insufficient torque.

Fix: Check the bolting of the ground connection on the affected vehicles and correct it if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSACoolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit Recall R/2021/438 · Jan 21, 2022 · built Apr 2017 to Oct 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: On certain vehicles with a Diesel engine the coolant pump which is controlled by vacuum might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.

Fix: Update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/106 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/108 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/130 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/376 · Nov 29, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAVehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair Recall R/2021/274 · Aug 20, 2021 · built Jul 2013 to Oct 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: The polycarbonate panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

Fix: Remove the bonded panel and install a new polycarbonate panel if required.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe air conditioning drain hoses might be incorrectly fitted in the vehicle Recall R/2021/165 · Jun 21, 2021 · built Nov 2018 to Jun 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The air conditioning drain hoses might be incorrectly fitted in the vehicle.

Fix: Conduct a check of the air conditioning drain hoses and correct their installation if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/110 · May 13, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/120 · May 11, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/111 · May 10, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/128 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/129 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/131 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/132 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/133 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/134 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated Recall R/2021/082 · Mar 30, 2021 · built May 2016 to Jul 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The communication module may be deactivated

Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe high voltage wiring harness shield may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles Recall R/2020/334 · Dec 2, 2020 · built Jan 2018 to Feb 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The shield for the high-voltage wiring harness may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles

Fix: Replace the high-voltage wiring harness on the affected vehicles

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe middle seatbelt buckle could be pushed under the seat cushion in certain circumstances whilst buckling up Recall R/2020/325 · Nov 30, 2020 · built Oct 2018 to Jul 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The middle seatbelt buckle could be pushed under the seat cushion in certain circumstances while buckling up

Fix: Adjust the positioning of the double buckle on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAEngine control unit software to be updated Recall R/2020/243 · Oct 6, 2020 · built Nov 2011 to May 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the relevant control unit's software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe third row seat head restraints may not meet specification Recall R/2019/427 · Jul 9, 2020 · built Jul 2018 to Nov 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: The third row seat head restraints may not meet specification on affected vehicles.

Fix: Replace the head restraints on affected vehicles

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe deployment of the passenger air bag may not meet specifications Recall R/2020/029 · Feb 5, 2020 · built Jun 2018 to Dec 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: The passenger airbag might not meet specifications

Fix: Replace the passenger airbag

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe fixation of the rear door windows trim bar may not meet specification Recall R/2019/341 · Jan 10, 2020 · built Oct 2018 to Sep 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: The fixation of the trim bar at the rear door windows might not meet specification.

Fix: Check the fixation of the trim bars on the rear door windows and rework them if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSASoftware update required to improve emissions Recall R/2019/307 · Oct 18, 2019 · built Aug 2011 to May 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual. Check and replace N0x sensor if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSASoftware update required to improve emissions Recall R/2019/304 · Oct 17, 2019 · built Feb 2013 to Jun 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual. Check and replace NOx sensor if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe software of the radar control unit may not meet specification Recall R/2019/269 · Sep 18, 2019 · built Feb 2017 to Jul 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: ; The software of the radar control unit might not meet the specification

Fix: Update the software of the radar sensor control unit on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSATo achieve an improvement in the emissions via software updates Recall R/2019/256 · Sep 6, 2019 · built Jun 2012 to Nov 2017 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe air conditioning drain hoses may be incorrectly fitted Recall R/2019/268 · Sep 4, 2019 · built Jan 2018 to Jul 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: The air conditioning drain hoses might be incorrectly fitted in the vehicle.

Fix: Check the air conditioning drain hoses and correct their installation if necessary

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAA welding stud on the main floor may be incorrectly welded Recall R/2019/209 · Jul 15, 2019 · built Jun 2018 to Apr 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: A welding stud on the main floor may not have been welded correctly

Fix: The vehicles will be recalled and the affecting welding stud sealed

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSATo improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management Recall R/2018/266 · Oct 19, 2018 · built Dec 2013 to May 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSARear axle brake caliper may not have been manufactured according to specification Recall R/2018/226 · Oct 1, 2018 · built Apr 2018 to Jun 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Hydrogen may be embedded in the piston material of rear brake calipers.

Fix: Bleed the hydraulic brake system of the rear axle of affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAFront panel and rear fixed section of panoramic glass sunroof may not be bonded correctly Recall R/2018/230 · Aug 15, 2018 · built Feb 2018 to Mar 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Panoramic glass sunroof the front panel and rear fixed section may not be bonded correctly

Fix: Check and replace the frame of the panoramic glass sunroof if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSABonding of the windshield may be inadequateYears estimated Recall R/2018/046 · Feb 21, 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: The bonding of the windshield in the lower area may not correspond to the specification. During a collision the bonding may fail and the windscreen may detach. This could have an adverse affect on the effectiveness of the passenger airbag.

Fix: On affected vehicles check bonding and if necessary replace windscreen.

Check on GOV.UK

EU Safety GateThe 48V ground connection under the passenger seat may have become detached in the assembly process.This can increase electrical transition resistance at the point of connection. This can lead to an overheated ground connection and create a risk of fire. Alert A12/00991/24 · reported by Germany · Apr 26, 2024 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): other; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe air conditioner may be faulty, which can lead to short circuits and/or fire.The automatic emergency call (eCall) may fail and the vehicle may not unlock and/or start. The emergency engine operation mode can be activated while driving. These errors create risks of injury. Alert A12/00700/23 · reported by Germany · Apr 14, 2023 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe bolt for the 48V ground connection under the passenger seat may have been secured with insufficient torque.As a result, the electrical resistance of the connection could increase and the temperature may therefore rise in this area, posing a risk of fire. Alert A12/00754/22 · reported by Germany · May 20, 2022 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe vacuum-controlled coolant pump may not be tightly sealed between the coolant and vacuum circuits.This may result in the coolant leaking into the vacuum circuit leading to an electrochemical reaction, increasing the risk of fire. Alert A12/00045/22 · reported by Germany · Jan 14, 2022 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateA trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine…A trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine compartment. Consequently, leaking fuel may come into contact with hot parts of the engine, increasing the risk of fire. Alert A12/00017/22 · reported by Germany · Jan 7, 2022 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateIn certain GLE/GLS (BR 167) and C-class vehicles, the seats might be constructed incomplete or with unintended trim, increasing the risk…In certain GLE/GLS (BR 167) and C-class vehicles, the seats might be constructed incomplete or with unintended trim, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Alert A12/01557/21 · reported by Germany · Nov 19, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with a borderline tolerance, which could cause one side of the V-ribbed belt to rub…The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with a borderline tolerance, which could cause one side of the V-ribbed belt to rub against the belt tensioner, causing it to fail. As a result, the coolant pump may stop working, causing the engine to overheat, thus compromising the impermeability of the oil sump. Consequently, oil may leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic. Alert A12/01532/21 · reported by Germany · Nov 12, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe condensed water drainage hose of the air-conditioning system may not be properly fitted and could spontaneously detach.Consequently, condensation water could enter the passenger compartment and corrode electrical components, which could lead to short-circuits increasing the risk of fire. Additionally, this corrosion might cause different electrical systems to malfunction, increasing the risk of accident. Alert A12/00745/21 · reported by Germany · Jun 4, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle…The polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair. In such cases, the adhesive bonding could gradually deteriorate and the panel could become detached from the vehicle, posing a risk to other road users. Alert A12/00730/21 · reported by Germany · May 28, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe tyre carcass could be damaged.As a result, tyre-pressure loss could occur or the tread could become partially or completely detached. This could increase the risk of accident or injury. Alert A12/00563/21 · reported by Germany · Apr 30, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe surface of the instrument panel might not be adequately bonded to the base support.As a result, the opening behaviour of the passenger airbag could be impaired, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Alert A12/00546/21 · reported by Germany · Apr 23, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe windscreen may be incorrectly bonded and could become detached from the body of the car in the event of a crash.A passenger airbag being deployed in this case could not be supported by the windscreen as intended. As a result, the restraining effect of the passenger airbag could be impaired, increasing the risk of injury to the passenger. Alert A12/01338/20 · reported by Germany · Oct 9, 2020 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateDue to insufficient padding, passengers may not be made aware that the headrest on the third row of seats is not in the correct position.Furthermore, the catch groove on the headrest rod might be missing.As a result, the protective function of the headrest cannot be guaranteed, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Alert A12/00214/20 · reported by Germany · Feb 21, 2020 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe garnish moulding to the window stay bar of the rear doors may not be installed correctly.As a result, the garnish moulding could become detached in motion, posing a risk to the following traffic. Alert A12/1887/19 · reported by Germany · Dec 6, 2019 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe drain hose of the air conditioning system may not have been correctly installed.Consequently, condensed water could enter the passenger compartment and damage or short-circuit several electric components, causing the engine to stop or run in emergency mode while driving, increasing the risk of accident. Alert A12/1513/19 · reported by Germany · Oct 18, 2019 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe functioning of the front passenger airbag may be impaired by extreme vehicle interior temperatures (above 85°C).As a result, there might be a delay in the deployment of the front passenger airbag and/or it might not deploy completely, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Alert A12/1440/19 · reported by Germany · Sep 27, 2019 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateA small opening may have been melted into the floor due to incorrect welding of a weld stud.Consequently, water may ingress into the right-hand side of the vehicle's interior/footwell. As a result, various electrical contacts (including for the internal combustion engine, the lighting and the windscreen wipers) could then become wet. This could affect their functioning, increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/1288/19 · reported by Germany · Aug 30, 2019 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe rear spoiler may not have been produced according to specifications.The upper part of the rear spoiler may consequently become detached and drop onto the road, posing a risk to following traffic. Alert A12/0368/19 · reported by Germany · Mar 1, 2019 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe pistons on the rear axle brake callipers are inadequate.This may lead to reduced braking performance or failure of the rear brake circuit. Alert A12/1448/18 · reported by Germany · Oct 5, 2018 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

How often does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class fail its MOT?

11.4% of 6,080 MOT tests in 2023 on Mercedes-Benz GLE-Classs first registered in 2018 were a fail4.4 points better than the average car of the same age
  1. Tyres55%
  2. Brakes14%
  3. Body, chassis and structure12%
  4. Lights and electrics11%
  5. Visibility (windscreen, wipers, mirrors)10%
  6. Exhaust, emissions and leaks7%

Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2018, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.

What do 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class owners report?

12 of the 56 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.

CASE NUMBER: [XXX] VEHICLE: 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 --- EMAIL EXCHANGE TEXT --- From: [XXX] Sent: 1/14/2026, 12:11 PM To: cs.usa@mercedes-benz.com Subject: Re: Message From Mercedes-Benz USA: Case Number [XXX] Dear Ken, I want to clarify that my concern is not about support for “older technology” in a general sense, but about the confirmed retirement of factory-installed emergency and crash-response systems that were standard safety equipment on my vehicle at the time of sale. As previously noted, the mbrace system on my 2018 GLE-Class includes SOS/Emergency Call and Automatic Collision…
Electrical System, Unknown Or OtherNHTSA complaint 11738453 · May 18, 2026
The low beam visibility on this vehicle is extremely dangerous. It's as if you have no headlights on. They can inspect anytime. With low night visibility. Driver is not able to see the road or person which causes a delayed response because of visibility. Driver puts on highbeams to be able to see which blinds others or shouldn't be driven at night. Plenty of times, I could have been in an accident or didn't see someone. My eyes are 20/20. Yes, it was reproduced. We tried after market headlights as well, but it's the same issue. Yes, I have complained to manufacturer more than once, but if…
Exterior LightingNHTSA complaint 11737144 · May 11, 2026
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC; Case: XXX My concerns has been denied and overlooked by Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC multiple times since Jan 2026--interims of defective electric system causing sudden locking of steering wheel and shut down car , due to malfunctioning electric system resulting in car crash into another parked car on the street, took car to auto body shop who diagnosed gas gauge misread as empty gas tank even though tank was 3/4 full , due to this car was totally locked out when driving on the street and hit another parked car due to loss of control. i have been in communication with…
Electrical SystemCrashNHTSA complaint 11733079 · Apr 22, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in a pharmacy parking lot with the hold feature engaged, the driver released the brake pedal. Immediately afterward, the vehicle suddenly accelerated forward approximately 75 feet. The driver attempted to stop the vehicle by depressing the brake pedal; however, the brakes failed to respond. The vehicle continued moving, went over a curb, into a ditch, up a hill, and through a cement block wall before coming to an abrupt stop 5 feet from a house. The driver sustained arm and shoulder injuries…
Vehicle Speed Control, Service BrakesCrashNHTSA complaint 11723339 · Mar 10, 2026
Cannot shift the gear from P to any other positions, and unable to move the car. The issue has been existing from mid 2022, three years ago.
Power TrainNHTSA complaint 11670176 · Jun 30, 2025
After fully stop with pressing brake pedal, try to shift the gear from D (Drive) to R (Reverse) but cannot shift the automatic gear position from D to R (reverse) gear. In order to shift to R gear position, I needed to shutdown and restart the engine. This has been clearly recurrent since 3 years ago and mostly happen in front of my garage to park backward, but sometimes very dangerous in the middle of road, when needed to make tight U-turn. Please take care of this issue. Thank you.
Power TrainNHTSA complaint 11668375 · Jun 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. The contact stated that water had entered the vehicle through the sunroof. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that water intrusion through the sunroof had damaged the batteries. The mechanic replaced both batteries. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V854000(Structure); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired for the water intrusion failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was…
Electrical System, StructureNHTSA complaint 11662540 · May 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact scanned the vehicle with a vehicle scanner and retrieved diagnostic trouble codes that indicated a loss of communication between the fuel pump control unit and the fuel pump. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the contact was informed that there was water accumulation in the spare tire wheel well. The dealer replaced the blown seals and the fuel pump control unit under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V955000 (Fuel System, Diesel, Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the failure…
Fuel System, Gasoline, Fuel System, DieselNHTSA complaint 11617762 · Oct 2, 2024
My car randomly swerves in a zigzag motion unexpectedly, nearly causing several accidents. I am scared to drive my car. I have not been able to detect any triggers, as it will do this randomly, regardless of a smooth road, street conditions, weather, speed, freeway, neighborhoods, etc. No warning lamps have come on. Tires are in excellent condition. I have not found any information online, and everything seems to be in perfect working order, tough it is absolutely not.
SteeringNHTSA complaint 11584258 · Apr 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE350. The contact stated that while entering the dealer, the over-the-thread detector provided an alert. There were no warning lights illuminated. While at the local dealer, the contact was informed that the vehicle was working as designed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead (2799 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305) where it was diagnosed that the brake pads had separated and were not engaged. The brake pads and rotors were replaced but the failure recurred. The vehicle was…
Service Brakes, Hydraulic, WheelsNHTSA complaint 11527851 · Jun 20, 2023
I WRITE YOU TO REPORT A SERIOUS MERCEDES BENZ SAFETY HAZARD. THE GLE 43 WITH PIRELLI PZERO TIRES RESPONDS ADVERSELY (WITHOUT REASONABLE CONTROL) IN SNOWY CONDITIONS. IN EVEN MILDLY SNOWY CONDITIONS, THE TIRES PLANE ON THE SNOW AND ACT MORE AS SKIS THAN TIRES. IN 2018, AFTER LEASING MY GLE 43 I EXPERIENCED LOSS OF CONTROL, SLIDING SIDEWAYS, WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT 5-10 MPH IN A PARKING LOT. FOLLOWING THAT EXPERIENCE I PURCHASED SNOW TIRES AND THE CAR HANDLED MUCH MORE FAVORABLY. IN 2018 WHEN I LEASED THE CAR, I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT ONLY THE SPORT TIRES WERE AVAILABLE FOR THE SIZE…
Vehicle Speed Control, WheelsCrashNHTSA complaint 11355025 · Sep 14, 2020
CAR WAS STOPPED IN THE PARKING LOT,AND JUST BEFORE SWITCHING THE IGNITION OFF,IT ACCELERATED WITHOUT INTENTION, HITTING THE RESTAURANT WALL CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE AND LITTLE PHYSICAL INJURY. AFTER HITTING THE WALL CAR STOPPED WITH MAJOR DAMAGE TO FRONT. AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED.
Vehicle Speed ControlCrashNHTSA complaint 11172997 · Jan 30, 2019

Mercedes-Benz guides on CarHooq

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: questions owners ask

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class reliable?

NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 56 complaints with NHTSA about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class; the most common categories were power train (10, 17.9%), electrical system (9, 16.1%), service brakes (8, 14.3%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 8 complaints mention a crash, 1 mentions a fire, 6 injuries were reported.

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

Across 56 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are power train (17.9% of complaints), electrical system (16.1% of complaints), service brakes (14.3% of complaints), vehicle speed control (10.7% of complaints), exterior lighting (7.1% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.

Does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class have any recalls?

As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Can the sunroof on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class shatter or fail?

3 of the 56 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (5.4%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "Tl* the contact owns a 2018 mercedes benz gle350. the contact stated that while driving approximately 70 mph, the sunroof shattered without impact. no injuries were reported. the cause of the failure was not determined." (NHTSA complaint 11319701, March 2020). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.

Check your own GLE-Class

Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.

Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2018 only; combines NHTSA's entries for GLE-CLASS, GLE-CLASS COUPE and GLE-CLASS PHEV.

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