2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Problems, Complaints & Recalls

Source: NHTSA · Updated Apr 21, 2026 · 26 owner complaints analyzed

Compared with other GLE 450 years
More complaints than other years 1st of 7 for complaints
NHTSA crash rating
Not rated

Owners have filed 26 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450. That is the most of any GLE 450 model year in the database (7 years). The most reported problem area is electrical system (14 complaints, 54%), typically at around 4,950 miles. There are 32 safety recalls covering this model year.

Complaints are unverified owner reports and are not adjusted for sales volume.

Compare with another car

Most common 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 problems

Complaints grouped by the part of the car owners reported, with the median mileage when the problem happened.

Electrical System14 · ~4,950 mi
Engine9 · ~5,000 mi
Vehicle Speed Control7 · ~4,900 mi
Unknown or Other4
Back Over Prevention2 · ~26,994 mi
Seats2 · ~11,000 mi
Air Bags1
Exterior Lighting1
Forward Collision Avoidance1 · ~5,300 mi
Fuel System, Gasoline1 · ~29,201 mi
Problem areaComplaintsShareMedian milesOwners mention mostTypical repair cost
Electrical System1454%4,950——
Engine935%5,000——
Vehicle Speed Control727%4,900——
Unknown or Other415%———
Back Over Prevention28%26,994——
Seats28%11,000——
Air Bags14%———
Exterior Lighting14%———
Forward Collision Avoidance14%5,300——
Fuel System, Gasoline14%29,201——
Lane Departure14%5,300——
Power Train14%5,000——
Seat Belts14%10,000——
Suspension14%———
Tires14%———
Visibility/wiper14%———

One complaint can list several problem areas, so shares can add up to more than 100%.

Complaints by year received

Peak: 2022, with 5 complaints
2019: 1201912020: 4202042021: 3202132022: 5202252023: 2202322024: 5202452025: 4202542026: 220262

n = 26 complaints · Source: NHTSA

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 recalls (32)

Tap a recall to see the problem, the risk and the fix.

Electrical system:wiringMar 15, 2024 · NHTSA campaign 24V207000 · 116,020 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 GLE 350, 2020-2024 GLE 450, 2020-2023 GLS 580, GLE 580, 2019-2023 GLS 450, 2021-2023 Maybach GLS 600, AMG GLS 63, 2021-2024 AMG GLE 53, AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and AMG GLE 63 S vehicles. A 48-Volt ground connection under the passenger seat may not be secured properly, resulting in the ground connection overheating.

Risk: An overheated ground connection can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and tighten the 48-Volt ground connection as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 3, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024040002.

Power train:automatic transmission:control module:softwareFeb 16, 2024 · NHTSA campaign 24V118000 · 105,071 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 vehicles. The transmission may not fully downshift in certain conditions, causing the engine to stall.

Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the transmission control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac systemMar 17, 2023 · NHTSA campaign 23V177000 · 61,450 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLE350, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, 2021 AMG GLE53, AMG GLE63, Maybach GLS600, AMG GLS63, and 2020 GLE580 vehicles. The air conditioner drain hoses may have been incorrectly installed, causing water to drain into the passenger compartment.

Risk: Water intrusion into the foot wells may cause corrosion and/or short circuits to electrical components, increasing the risk of fire. In addition, the emergency call (eCall) feature may be disabled and the doors may not unlock, increasing the risk of injury. Also, the engine may not start or may enter a limp-home mode, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the air conditioner drain hoses, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of recall numbers 21V-288 and 19V-587. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2023030014 and 15.

Structure:bodySep 12, 2022 · NHTSA campaign 22V680000 · 161,000 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 GLE350, GLE450, GLS450, 2021-2022 AMG GLE53, 2020-2021 GLE580, GLS580, and 2021 GLE400e, AMG GLS63, AMG GLE63 S, and Maybach GLS600 vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the rear door window trim bars may detach.

Risk: Detached trim bars may cause a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and secure the rear window trim bars, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 1, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022090010.

Electrical system:software; communication: auto crash notificationMay 20, 2022 · NHTSA campaign 22V365000 · 242,722 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Risk: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

Electrical system:wiring:interior/under dashApr 8, 2022 · NHTSA campaign 22V231000 · 21,306 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2022 GLE450, GLS450, 2021-2022 AMG GLE53, 2020-2021 GLE580, GLS580, 2021 AMG GLE63, Maybach GLS600 and AMG GLS63 vehicles. A ground cable bolt for the 48V ground connection under the front passenger seat may not be secured properly, which can cause the electrical cable to overheat.

Risk: An overheated electrical cable can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and tighten the ground cable bolt, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040017.

Back over prevention:display functionApr 8, 2022 · NHTSA campaign 22V232000 · 126,443 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk: An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.

Fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system:fuel rail; fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system:injectorsDec 13, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V961000 · 139 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

SeatsOct 18, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V818000 · 27 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLS450, GLS580, GLE350, GLE450, AMG C63, and 2021 AMG GLE53 vehicles. The seats may have been assembled incorrectly.

Risk: Incorrectly assembled seats may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and repair the seats, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 8, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021110010.

Exterior lighting:headlightsJul 2, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V509000 · 1,467 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 C300, 2019-2020 A220, AMG C43, AMG C63, 2020 GLE580, GLB250, 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, 2021 AMG GLE63, and AMG GLE53 vehicles. The LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: Incorrectly adjusted headlights may reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the LED headlights, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 13, 2021. A second notice will be sent once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Back over prevention: sensing system: camera; electrical system:softwareMay 14, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V354000 · 343,191 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk: A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix: The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

Equipment:appliance:air conditionerApr 23, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V288000 · 6,331 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLE 53, 2020 GLE350, GLE450, GLE580, GLS450, and GLS580 vehicles. The air conditioner drain hoses may have been incorrectly installed, causing water to drain into the passenger compartment.

Risk: Water intrusion into the driver and passenger side foot wells may cause corrosion and/or short circuits to electrical components, increasing the risk of fire. In addition, the emergency call (eCall) feature may be disabled and the doors may not unlock, increasing the risk of injury. Also, the engine may not start or may enter a limp-home mode, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and correct the air conditioner drain hoses, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040024.

Electronic stability control (esc):control module:softwareFeb 12, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V071000 · 41,838 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, and 2020 GLS450, GLE580, GLS580 vehicles. During certain evasive driving maneuvers, the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software may apply torque to one of the front wheels, pulling the vehicle to one side. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

Risk: If the vehicle unexpectedly pulls to one side during an evasive maneuver, it can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the ESP software, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030004.

Communication: auto crash notificationFeb 12, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V072000 · 67 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2019 C300, E300, 2018-2020 CLA250, 2020 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG GT53, GLE450, 2018 AMG E63, AMG GTA, 2017-2020 GLA250, GLC300, 2019 GLC350, AMG GLC43, 2017-2018 GLE350, 2019 AMG GLC 43, GLC350, GLE400, 2017 GLS450, S550, C300 Cabrio, and 2018-2019 S560 vehicles. On June 18, 2021, an additional 9 vehicles were added, including certain 2021 GLA250, GLC300, 2018 S450, E400, and 2017 CLA250 vehicles. The communication module might have been inadvertently deactivated during a service visit, which could have disabled the Emergency Call (eCall) function.

Risk: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting emergency services through the call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the communication module and activate it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Letters for the owners of the 9 additional vehicles were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030005.

Exterior lighting:back up lightsFeb 5, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V056000 · 8,199 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350 and GLE450 vehicles. The lighting control unit may malfunction and cause the left exterior reverse light to remain illuminated after the transmission is shifted into a different gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: If the reverse light remains illuminated in a gear other than reverse, it may cause confusion about the driver's intention to other motorists, and increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the lighting control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 10, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022050004.

Structure:interior panels:dashboardFeb 5, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V057000 · 8 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLS 450, GLE 350, GLE 450, and 2021 AMG GLE53 vehicles. The dashboard surface may not be properly secured to the base material.

Risk: In the event of a crash where the passenger air bag deploys, an unsecured dashboard could impair the inflation of the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the dashboard, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer serviced at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030003.

Communication: auto crash notification; electrical system:softwareFeb 5, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V058000 · 1,292,258 vehicles

Problem: 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 module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

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.

Fix: 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.

Seat belts: rear/other:buckle assemblyOct 30, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V671000 · 55,326 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz AG USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLE53, AMG GLE63, 2020 GLE580, 2020-2021 GLE350 and GLE450 vehicles with 5 passenger seating. While buckling the seat belt, the middle seat belt buckle could be pushed down into the gap below the seat cushion. If the buckle can't be retrieved, the buckle latch will be inoperable and unable to restrain an occupant.

Risk: An unrestrained occupant has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will secure the middle seat belt buckle, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020110005.

Steering:electric power assist system; visibility:windshield wiper/washer:motor; exterior lighting:headlights; electrical system:wiringOct 9, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V626000 · 12,799 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 580, GLS 450, GLS 580 vehicles equipped with an optional illuminated Mercedes-Benz star logo in the front grill. The star logo's electrical ground connection may not be installed properly, potentially affecting the function of other components that share the same ground connection, such as the power steering control unit, wiper motor, and/or the left headlight.

Risk: If the power steering, wiper motor, or left headlight malfunction there could be an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will relocate the ground connection, free of charge. The recall began November 13, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020100015/6.

Air bags:passenger side frontal:cushion; visibility:windshieldAug 7, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V464000 · 1 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling one 2020 GLE 450 vehicle. The windshield may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle, possibly allowing it to separate from the vehicle and affect the full protective function of the passenger's frontal air bag in the event of a crash.

Risk: A separated windshield may reduce the effectiveness of the passenger air bag restraint system and increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify the owner, and a dealer will inspect the windshield bonding and repair it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020080014.

Suspension:rear:shock absorber; suspension:front:shock absorberJun 5, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V329000 · 38 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE450, GLS450, and GLS580 vehicles. The sealing of the piston assembly in the front struts and rear shock absorbers may leak and fail prematurely.

Risk: Premature wear of the front struts and rear shock absorbers can affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front strut assemblies and rear shock absorbers, free of charge. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020090001.

Air bags; electrical system:wiringApr 22, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V226000 · 120 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE 350 and GLE 450 vehicles equipped with an electrically adjustable second-row seat. The wiring harness under the seat may become pinched during seat adjustment, possibly causing damage to the wires.

Risk: Damaged wires may cause the rear side air bags to not deploy as intended. Additionally, the driver may not be warned if the second row right seat is not locked into place correctly after using the "Easy Entry" function. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reroute the wiring harness as necessary, and repair any wire damage, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020050009.

Structure:frame and membersMar 20, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V172000 · 224 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350, GLE450 AND GLS450 vehicles. The seams on the rear crossmember may have been insufficiently welded. This may allow cracks to form when towing, possibly causing the rear crossmember to detach from the vehicle.

Risk: If the rear crossmember detaches from the vehicle, it can become a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear crossmember, free of charge. The recall began July 17, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020060013.

Electrical system: instrument cluster/panelFeb 14, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V089000 · 2,101 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 CLA250, CLA250 4MATIC and CLA35 AMG 4MATIC, 2020-2021 GLE350, GLE350 4MATIC, GLE450 4MATIC, GLS450 4MATIC and GLS580 4MATIC and 2021 GLE53 AMG Coupe, GLE63S AMG 4MATIC, GLS63 AMG 4MATIC and Maybach GLS600 4MATIC vehicles. The instrument cluster software may deactivate the illumination of certain interior switches (switch bar, overhead control unit, steering wheel) if the hazard lights are turned on and the ignition switch is in the 'off' position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."

Risk: If the interior switches are not illuminated, they may be more difficult to find and operate, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020030019.

Seats:mid/rear assemblyDec 6, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V867000 · 1 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling one 2020 GLE450 4MATIC vehicle. The third-row seating headrests were manufactured with insufficient padding and a securing rod that may not hold the headrest in place, affecting the adjustment and operation of the headrest.

Risk: The headrest may not properly protect the occupant in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Fix: MBUSA will notify dealers, and MBUSA will replace the third row headrests on the affected vehicle, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 4, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Structure:body:door:hinge and attachmentsOct 4, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V709000 · 13,799 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350, GLE350 4MATIC, GLE450 4MATIC, GLS450 4MATIC, and GLS580 4MATIC vehicles. The rear door window trim may detach.

Risk: The detached trim can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and fasten the rear door window trim, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019100011.

Equipment:other:owners/service/other manualSep 9, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V648000 · 1,478 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE 350 4MATIC and GLE 450 4MATIC vehicles. The owner's manuals do not include information regarding the adjustment of the head restraints of the third row seats. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 202a, "Head Restraints."

Risk: Improperly adjusted head restraints increase the risk of injury to the third row seat passengers in the event of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealer's will provide a supplementary owner's manual booklet with the necessary information, free of charge. The recall began November 22, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019090005.

Equipment:appliance:air conditionerAug 12, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V587000 · 18,392 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350, GLE350 4MATIC, GLS450 4MATIC, and GLE450 4MATIC vehicles. The air conditioner drain hoses may have been incorrectly installed, causing water to drain from the air conditioner into the passenger compartment.

Risk: If a significant volume of water enters the driver and passenger side foot wells, it might cause corrosion and/or short circuits to the electrical components in the area, increasing the risk of fire. In addition, the emergency call (eCall) feature may be disabled; the vehicle may not be able to be unlocked and/or started; and the engine limp-home mode might be activated during driving. These features increase the risk of an injury or crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and correct the air conditioner drain hoses, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began September 6, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019080005.

Fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly:filler pipe and capAug 2, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V572000 · 128 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350 4MATIC and GLE450 4MATIC vehicles. The connection between the fuel filler pipe and the fuel tank may have been improperly welded, allowing a fuel leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began October 18, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019090001.

Forward collision avoidance: sensing system: radarJul 19, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V540000 · 1,957 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 C300 Cabrio, C300A Cabrio 4MATIC, C300 Coupe, C300 Coupe 4MATIC, C300, C300 4MATIC, C43 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, C43 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, C43 AMG 4MATIC, C63 AMG Cabrio, C63S AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C63 AMG, C63S AMG, CLS450, CLS450 4MATIC, CLS53 AMG 4MATIC, E300, E300 4MATIC, E450 Cabrio, E450 Cabrio 4MATIC, E450 Coupe, E450 Coupe 4MATIC, E450 Wagon 4MATIC, E450 4MATIC, E53 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, E53 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, E53 AMG 4MATIC, E63S AMG 4MATIC, E63S AMG Wagon 4MATIC, S450, S450 4MATIC, S560 Cabrio, S560 Coupe 4MATIC, S560, S560 4MATIC, S560 4MATIC Maybach, S63 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, S63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, S63 AMG 4MATIC, S65 AMG Cabrio, S65 AMG, and AMG GT53 Coupe 4MATIC vehicles, and 2020 GLC300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLE350 4MATIC, and GLE450 4MATIC vehicles equipped with the Driver Assistance Package. A software error in the radar sensor control unit may impair the functionality of the Active Brake Assist.

Risk: An impaired Active Brake Assist may not automatically apply partial or full braking as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the radar sensor control unit software, free of charge. The recall began September 13, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019080008.

Air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator moduleJun 14, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V458000 · 11 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350 4Matic and GLE450 4Matic vehicles. In the event of a crash while the temperature in the passenger cabin is very high, the passenger frontal air bag deployment may be delayed or may not completely deploy.

Risk: An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Fix: MBUSA has notified dealers. All affected vehicles are still within the manufacturer's control. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began August 14, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019070011.

StructureJun 14, 2019 · NHTSA campaign 19V459000 · 753 vehicles

Problem: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLE350 4Matic and GLE450 4Matic vehicles. A welding error during production may have resulted in a small hole in the floor, possibly allowing water to leak into the passenger cabin.

Risk: Water in the passenger compartment may affect the vehicle's electrical systems, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will seal the affected area, free of charge. The recall began July 31, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019060007.

To see whether a specific car still has an open recall, enter its VIN on NHTSA's official recall lookup. You can also decode a VIN here.

Recent owner reports

Short excerpts of the latest complaints filed with NHTSA, with personal details removed. Full reports can be searched on NHTSA.gov.

My vehicle was in for a normal service to have the spark plugs replaced. However I was told that the engine wiring harness had become brittle (apparently a common and reoccurring problem with my vehicle) and would likely cause misfiring after changing spark plugs. This did indeed happen and if I…

Engine · received Apr 21, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11732609

Engine compartment heat causes wiring harness insulation to melt and Electrical shorting while driving. Engine has lack of power and acceleration due to heat damage to the engine harness. Check Engine light came on. This is a potential fire risk and should be address by MBUSA. This is a know issue…

Engine · received Feb 9, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11716779

The air conditioning in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV has failed due to a refrigerant (freon) leak, leaving the system unable to cool and properly defrost the windshield. This is not an isolated issue—many other GLE owners have reported the same failure on forums and blogs, suggesting a…

Electrical System · received Oct 28, 2025 · NHTSA complaint 11696116

Both left and right headlamp/turn signal/marker light assemblies and control modules have been replaced. One under warranty in 2023, the second in 2025. Infotainment system displays error messages Messages may increase as assembly/control module becomes increasingly dysfunctional.

Exterior Lighting · received Aug 26, 2025 · NHTSA complaint 11683243

The rear shock absorbers have failed on my vehicle. The vehicle makes sounds when going over bumps in the road. There is an active recall on other GLE 2020 450 models but not my specific VIN. The vehicle has less then 30,000 miles on it before the shock absorbers went out.

Suspension · received Jul 10, 2025 · NHTSA complaint 11672426

Other Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 years

← 2017 GLE 450 · 2021 GLE 450 →

YearComplaintsRecalls
2024 GLE 450104
2023 GLE 45074
2022 GLE 4501411
2021 GLE 4501517
20202632
2017 GLE 45001
2016 GLE 4502511

See all Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 problems by year, every Mercedes-Benz model, or the Mercedes-Benz VIN decoder.

Similar Mercedes-Benz models

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Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450?

Owners most often report electrical system, engine, vehicle speed control problems. The top one, electrical system, accounts for 14 complaints.

Was there a recall on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450?

Yes, 32 safety recalls. Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check whether the repairs were done on your car.

Was the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 a good year?

Complaint data can't fully answer that, because counts aren't adjusted for sales. Compared with other GLE 450 model years, the 2020 has more complaints than most years. Always get a pre-purchase inspection and check the VIN for open recalls.