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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2021 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
- 92owner complaints
- 3crash reports
- 3fire reports
- 7%fail the UK MOT
92 complaints, against an average of 59 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The components named most often in the 92 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 92 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?16 owners · 17.4%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?13 owners · 14.1%
- Why won't my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class start?8 owners · 8.7%
- Has the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class had engine failures?8 owners · 8.7%
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?7 owners · 7.6%
- What causes a knocking, ticking or rattling noise in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class engine?5 owners · 5.4%
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class overheat?4 owners · 4.3%
- Why does the infotainment screen freeze, reboot or go black in my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?4 owners · 4.3%
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class smell of burning or smoke?4 owners · 4.3%
- Why does the battery keep dying on my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?3 owners · 3.3%
Has the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2021 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 2021 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
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.
UK DVSASRPC 2402 - Downshift operation transmission software
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.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles a 12V ground connection bolting under the driver seat might not meet specifications.
Risk: On affected vehicles a 12V ground connection bolting under the driver seat might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the bolting of the ground connection on the affected vehicles and rework if necessary.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles under specific conditions (such as electric driving in wet weather) the required operating force of the brake pedal…On affected vehicles under specific conditions (such as electric driving in wet weather) the required operating force of the brake pedal for a deceleration intended by the driver might be increased.
Risk: On affected vehicles under specific conditions (such as electric driving in wet weather) the required operating force of the brake pedal for a deceleration intended by the driver might be increased.
Fix: Update the ESP control unit software
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.
Risk: On affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.
Fix: Replace the fuel pump module.
UK DVSAOn certain vehicles the steering coupling might not be tightened with the specified torque.
Risk: On certain vehicles the steering coupling might not be tightened with the specified torque.
Fix: Replace the locking screw of the steering coupling.
UK DVSAThe fixation of the trim bar at the rear door windows might not meet specifications
Risk: The fixation of the trim bar at the rear door windows might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the fixation of the trim bars on the rear door windows and rework them if necessary.
UK DVSAThe bolting of a 12v power supply line might be fastened with an insufficient torque
Risk: The bolting of a 12V power supply line might be fastened with an insufficient torque.
Fix: Check the bolting of the wiring harness for correct torque and correct it if necessary. Additionally the contact area will be checked for potentially existing damages and if necessary the affected electrical lines and the contact module will be replaced.
UK DVSAThe bolting of the 48v ground connection under the passenger seat might be fastened with an insufficient torque
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.
UK DVSAThe software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications
Risk: On certain vehicles the software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications.
Fix: Conduct an update the software of the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSACoolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit
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.
UK DVSAThe crankshaft might not meet specifications
Risk: On certain vehicles with a 4-cylinder Diesel engine the crankshaft might not meet specifications.
Fix: Replace the engine on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe seat assembly condition might not meet specifications
Risk: On certain vehicles the seat assembly condition might not meet specifications
Fix: Conduct a check of the seats on the affected vehicles and rework them if necessary
UK DVSAThe belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance
Risk: The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance.
Fix: Replace the belt tensioner. Additionally check the v-ribbed belt on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
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.
UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated
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.
UK DVSAThe middle seatbelt buckle could be pushed under the seat cushion in certain circumstances whilst buckling up
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.
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.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): other; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA bolt on the 12 Volt earthing cable under the driver’s seat may become loose, leading to increased electrical contact resistance in that…A bolt on the 12 Volt earthing cable under the driver’s seat may become loose, leading to increased electrical contact resistance in that area. The strong electrical currents flowing through that point could cause a local increase in temperature, leading to fire. Moreover, the increase in contact resistance may also deactivate the ECO start/stop function, leading to increased exhaust emissions.
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
EU Safety GateThe necessary brake pedal force may have to be increased under specific conditions (including electric driving in wet weather).If the driver does not brake harder, this could make the braking distance longer, increasing the risk of an accident.
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
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.
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
EU Safety GateInsufficient fastening of the bolts can cause the steering coupling to come loose from the steering spindle.This affects the steering capacity of the vehicle, creating a the risk of an accident.
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
EU Safety GateThe screw connection of a 12V wiring harness pf the vehicles equipped with plug-in hybrid traction may have been secured with insufficient…The screw connection of a 12V wiring harness pf the vehicles equipped with plug-in hybrid traction 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
How often does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class fail its MOT?
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 2021, 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class owners report?
12 of the 92 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.
The engine/check-engine and cold-start noise problems have recurred despite multiple dealer repairs. In July-August 2025 the dealer documented misfire codes and a loud screech after cold starts. Its Aug-Sept repair order recorded the check-engine light returning one day after coil work, coolant entering a cylinder, and head-gasket/injector work. The dealer reported a completed test drive Sept. 17, 2025; the owner reported the vehicle broke down again Sept. 24 after only a short period of use. The service manager later described coolant/oil mixing and damaged crankshaft bearings, but said the…
1. The Factory Assembly Defect During production of the 2020–2021 GLE and GLS line (V167 platform), Mercedes-Benz factory assembly workers improperly secured or seated the air conditioning evaporator condensation drain hoses. Because condensation water could not drain out underneath the vehicle, it emptied inside the vehicle—pooling silently underneath the heavy soundproofing foam, carpeting, and floor pans. 2. The Resulting Hidden Damage Underneath the floorboards of the GLE sits critical electrical infrastructure, including the main vehicle wiring harnesses, CAN-bus junctions, and…
The central MBUX display has gone completely blank- no communication with control panel head unit. It is not receiving data because the MBUX is frozen. Technician tried to perform a software flash update, but Mercedes own server-side security is locked. The technician attempted to reload the software, but it was explicitly blocked by Mercedes own security software. His findings were that this is failure caused within their own propriety software ecosystem and not normal wear and tear. There is no water damage or outside influence. Because the central display remains black, the backup camera is…
The vehicle repeatedly had a check-engine light and the same engine-related complaint during multiple repair visits. The dealer attempted repairs several times, including an engine rebuild and later cylinder-head work. Despite those repairs, the engine later failed. The same loud screeching noise has now returned on cold start and lasts about 7-10 seconds. This is the same recurring problem that brought the vehicle in for repair. I believe the repeated failure to correct the condition led to the engine failure; the cause of the current screech has not yet been independently diagnosed. I am…
2021 GLE350 - 4JGFB4KB7MA355768 purchased December 30, 2024 with 35,000. miles. Current milage 61,933. There is a critical electrical/software defect in the MBUX system which has completely blacked out. This VIN# has not been placed on recall but it is suffering the same failure as previous models (Including NHTSA campaign #21V354 and #26V281000 and I believe it warrants further investigation. The display failure creates significant safety hazards. Loff of Rear View Camera. Loss of Driver Instruments Warning. Essential driver information, including speed, safety warnings and system alerts…
While driving on the highway on three separate occasions the blind spot warning will pop up and show as inoperative, next the active break assist warning flashes as inoperative, and then the entire vehicle shows as inoperative and loses all acceleration and breaks down. This has happened three times. Stayed over night at the dealership they “drove it for 70 miles” it didn’t happen to them. They released the truck back to me saying it was perfectly fine. A day later it happened again while on the highway. Highly unsafe!
My Mercedes GLE 580 experienced a complete failure of the 48V battery system due to the exact defect outlined in NHTSA Recall Campaign 24V207 (defective 48V ground connection causing high resistance and fire risk). The official status for my VIN shows 'Recall Incomplete.' The vehicle is currently at Mercedes-Benz of Barrington. The dealership is actively refusing to remedy this safety recall under warranty and is attempting to charge me $5,313 out of pocket for the battery replacement. Furthermore, the dealership refuses to submit the correct diagnostic error code (B183371) to my extended…
While driving on I-84 between [XXX] and [XXX] , the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete engine failure with no prior warning. The engine seized, resulting in an immediate loss of power while traveling at highway speed, creating a dangerous situation in active traffic. The driver was fortunate to safely pull the vehicle onto an exit ramp. State police arrived and positioned their vehicle behind it to prevent a potential collision with other vehicles. There were no warning lights or prior symptoms before the failure. The vehicle had approximately 80,000miles and was regularly maintained…
The contact owned a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. The contact stated that warm air was blowing from the A/C unit while activated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that a leak had caused the A/C unit failure. The mechanic referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The contact was informed that the HVAC system was inoperable and an estimate for the repair was provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was provided a case number. The…
The vehicle has repeatedly experienced a sudden loss of acceleration, entering a reduced-power state while driving. Most recently, this occurred less than one week after I was advised that the issue had been fully resolved through a relay replacement. Critically, these incidents have occurred while my [XXX] child was in the vehicle, creating an unsafe and unacceptable situation. Below is a summary of the work that was done to resolve the safety concern. October: Drivetrain/Powertrain control unit internal fault Replacement of gateway/powertrain control module Wiring, grounding, and software…
According to the dealer, there are fault codes in the system for Transmission control unit failing. Thats what caused the vehicle to go into "limp" mode... That needs to be replaced. In an instant, the warning lights and reduction in power occurred simultaneously. The car slowed down and had to coast to shoulder of the highway crossing multiple lanes of traffic. The warnings that came on said “car cannot shift”, “battery failure warning” and when stopped; “do not restart the car.” The shoulder was very narrow and we could have easily been hit by the cars passing at high speeds on the beltway…
I reported multiple times to Mercedes USA that the vehicle was experiencing electrical issues as I was periodically loosing power and/or control over the vehicle. The vehicle was returned twice to the dealership but the problem always came back pretty much immediately. On the day of the accident, I was driving the vehicle on a straight road. The road was a little bit humid as it has been raining few minutes/hours before but it wasn't raining at the time I was driving. I was maintaining a speed of 55mph (speed limit on this portion of the road). The vehicle started to suddenly move by itself on…
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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 92 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class; the most common categories were engine (39, 42.4%), electrical system (33, 35.9%), power train (10, 10.9%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 3 complaints mention a crash, 3 mention a fire, 6 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
Across 92 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (42.4% of complaints), electrical system (35.9% of complaints), power train (10.9% of complaints), forward collision avoidance (7.6% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (6.5% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
16 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (17.4%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Vehicle unexpectedly lost power on a major highway. Limped into a service station, called for a tow truck. Several days later vehicle was repaired with a bill of $2800. Four weeks later, while driving, check engine light comes on." (NHTSA complaint 11622517, October 2024). 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.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
13 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (14.1%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "My vehicle suddenly started shaking and losing power, the check engine light came on and the problem continues to vibrate when idling, it will not shift into gear to go. Very unnerving and unsafe as it happened in a intersection." (NHTSA complaint 11705869, December 2025). 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.
Why won't my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class start?
8 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (8.7%) describe the car failing to start. One owner wrote: "GLE53 would not start. The car threw an error stating 12v battery malfunction.(Impacted the 48V battery) This essentially disables the vehicle completely. This is 2021 GLE53 with less than 5000 miles." (NHTSA complaint 11441783, November 2021). 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.
Has the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class had engine failures?
8 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (8.7%) describe complete engine failure or a replaced engine. One owner wrote: "This is regarding a 2021 gle 350. The car was parked overnight and in the morning was unable to start or crank . I had to tow the vehicle to the service center that has maintained the car since purchased date and they told Me there’s a problem with the engine…" (NHTSA complaint 11717456, February 2026). 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.
Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?
7 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (7.6%) describe rough idling, misfires or hesitation when accelerating. One owner wrote: "My Mercedes gle350 2021 is having a cylinder misfire. I had the repairs done last February. Carlton Mercedes acknowledged this is a known issue with this car. Did some googling and saw how big of an issue this is in this car." (NHTSA complaint 11644521, February 2025). 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.
What causes a knocking, ticking or rattling noise in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class engine?
5 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (5.4%) describe a knocking, ticking or rattling engine noise. One owner wrote: "The engine/check-engine and cold-start noise problems have recurred despite multiple dealer repairs. In July-August 2025 the dealer documented misfire codes and a loud screech after cold starts." (NHTSA complaint 11769461, October 2026). 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.
Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class overheat?
4 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (4.3%) describe the engine overheating or coolant loss. One owner wrote: "Engine harness wires insulation is falling apart very early after 3 years. It’s causing arching inside the insulation. Issues is from overheating and can cause a fire. Isolation needs to be upgraded and wire harness needs replaced." (NHTSA complaint 11645796, March 2025). 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.
Why does the infotainment screen freeze, reboot or go black in my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
4 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (4.3%) describe the infotainment or touch screen freezing, rebooting or going black. One owner wrote: "The central MBUX display has gone completely blank- no communication with control panel head unit. It is not receiving data because the MBUX is frozen. Technician tried to perform a software flash update, but Mercedes own server-side security is locked." (NHTSA complaint 11768718, October 2026). 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.
Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class smell of burning or smoke?
4 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (4.3%) describe a burning smell or smoke. One owner wrote: "On Thursday, [XXX], I called Mercedes Benz of Naperville at 7:23 AM, 12:34 PM and missed the call 3:03 PM. I reported Sandy in service on Thursday morning. That I smelt a burning plastic smell on Wednesday afternoon at 2:30PM." (NHTSA complaint 11585973, April 2024). 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.
Why does the battery keep dying on my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
3 of the 92 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (3.3%) describe a dead or draining battery. One owner wrote: "GLE53 would not start. The car threw an error stating 12v battery malfunction.(Impacted the 48V battery) This essentially disables the vehicle completely. This is 2021 GLE53 with less than 5000 miles." (NHTSA complaint 11441783, November 2021). 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 2021 only; combines NHTSA's entries for GLE 350 4MATIC, GLE CLASS and GLE-CLASS COUPE.