Is the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450?

The most-reported component is air bags, accounting for 62% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450

○ Not enough data

2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450
RENDERED 2026-11-01T14:00:23.797Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 55
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 1
Top problem: Air bags

Complaints per year

2011: 55 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2010	42
2011	55
2012	47
2013	37
2014	21
2015	18
2016	13
2017	1

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Air bags

62% · 34 reports

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

I [XXX] own. The Mercedes Benz, it was in recall for the Air Bag, I took it to the Dealer at the Coral Gables Dealership of the Mercedes, 300 Almeria Ave, Coral Gables 33134. Phone (305)306-3549. and it was check.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-01-31

Also filed under Service brakes

We were south bound on US131 and was struck in the drivers door. Entire drivers side of the vehicle has damage from front bumper to rear wheel. None of the air bags deployed and the computer has a stored code for both drivers side doors.

NHTSA ODI report, 2014-08-25

Suspension

16% · 9 reports

Most commonly citing front.

Show complaint excerpts

Were told by a mechanic at betten imports in grand rapids, mi, that the suspension was stuck in the 'low' position, causing the tires to become cupped and pitted.

NHTSA ODI report, 2013-10-30

Also filed under Wheels

Front end noise. Brought to dealer who replaced the right strut. 2 months later same noise on left side. Dealer replaced the left strut. Awaiting results.

NHTSA ODI report, 2011-06-16

Service brakes

11% · 6 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHINJURY

Electrical system

7% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing switch.

FIRE

Show complaint excerpts

We smelled smoke from under the passenger seat. We had the car in for a recall and service recently and didnât understand what was happening. Our three Children smelled the smoke too. Everyone exited the car and it burst into flames.

NHTSA ODI report, 2023-05-15

Fuel/propulsion system

4% · 2 reports

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2016-10-18Air bags16V081000 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Remedy: MBUSA will their notify owners, and Fiat Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler owners. Dealers for the respective brands will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. This recall began November 2016.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2021-09-17Engineering analysisOpen Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
R

2022-06-30Service brakes, hydraulic22V315000 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML-Class, GL-Class, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2024-05-24Service brakes, hydraulic24V298000 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Air bags: 34 reports on file for this year.
Suspension: 9 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 6 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 16V081000 · Air bags
Recall 22V315000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
Recall 24V298000 · Service brakes, hydraulic

FAQ

Is the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450?: The most-reported component is air bags, accounting for 62% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 have?: 3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.