The most reliable Mercedes SUV, based on J.D. Power owner ratings, is the GLE, with a Quality and Reliability score of 80 out of 100. The GLS follows at 78 and the GLC at 74. But owner ratings are only half the story, so we also checked every recent model against the official NHTSA recall database.
Here is how each model compares, which years to avoid and which Mercedes SUV we would buy if reliability matters most.
Most reliable Mercedes SUV: quick answer
- Best owner reliability rating: GLE, 80/100 (J.D. Power Quality and Reliability)
- Fewest recalls, 2021–2023: G-Class (9) and GLA (10)
- Year to avoid: 2020 GLE, with 18 NHTSA recall campaigns for the GLE 350 alone
Most reliable Mercedes SUV ratings compared
| Model | J.D. Power Quality and Reliability | NHTSA recall campaigns, 2021–2023 models |
|---|---|---|
| GLE | 80/100 | 16 |
| GLS | 78/100 | 15 |
| GLC | 74/100 | 20 |
| GLA | Not rated in this list | 10 |
| GLB | Not rated in this list | 11 |
| G-Class | Not rated in this list | 9 |
Sources: J.D. Power scores as reported by AOL; NHTSA recall database for the GLA 250, GLB 250, GLC 300, GLE 350, GLS 450 and G 550, model years 2021–2023, checked November 2026. Recall counts include campaigns shared with other Mercedes models.
A recall does not mean a car is unreliable. It means a fault was found and Mercedes will fix it for free. Models that sell in bigger numbers, like the GLC, also tend to collect more recalls and complaints.
Which Mercedes model is most reliable?
Among SUVs, the GLE has the best owner score in the J.D. Power ratings, making it the most reliable Mercedes SUV on that measure. Across the whole Mercedes range, the C-Class sedan scored highest at 84/100.
GLE: the most reliable Mercedes SUV by owner rating
As the most reliable Mercedes SUV by owner score, the GLE scores 80/100 for quality and reliability. The catch is the 2020 model, the first year of the current generation, which had 18 NHTSA recall campaigns for the GLE 350, against 5 for the 2022 model and 2 for 2023. If you buy a used GLE, choose 2022 or newer. See our GLE 350 4MATIC guide for the full recall breakdown.
GLS: the second most reliable Mercedes SUV
The GLS scores 78/100 and had 15 recall campaigns across its 2021–2023 models. Owner complaints to NHTSA most often mention the electrical system.
GLC: the most popular, but lower scores
The GLC scores 74/100 and had the most recall campaigns of any model we checked, at 20 for 2021–2023. Consumer Reports’ reliability page for the GLC lists recalls for issues including a loose steering coupling and an incorrect fuse box on 2023–2024 models. It remains a great SUV to drive, but check any used GLC for open recalls.
GLA, GLB and G-Class
These models were not in the J.D. Power list we checked, but they had the fewest recalls: 9 for the G-Class, 10 for the GLA and 11 for the GLB across 2021–2023. The G-Class sells in much smaller numbers, which partly explains its low count.
Which Mercedes to stay away from?
Even the most reliable Mercedes SUV can be a bad buy if you pick the wrong car:
- First-year models. The 2020 GLE had far more recalls than later years.
- Any used car with open recalls. Check the VIN on the NHTSA website before you buy.
- Cars without a service history. Mercedes SUVs are complex, and skipped maintenance is expensive later.
How we judged the most reliable Mercedes SUV
We combined two data sources. J.D. Power’s Quality and Reliability scores come from owner surveys. NHTSA’s recall database shows official safety recalls for each model year. We checked the core trim of each model, the GLA 250, GLB 250, GLC 300, GLE 350, GLS 450 and G 550, for the 2021 to 2023 model years.
What is the #1 most reliable SUV?
Outside Mercedes, Lexus and Toyota models usually lead reliability studies. Among luxury German SUVs, the GLE’s 80/100 owner score is a strong result.
Which is the best Mercedes SUV overall?
Reliability is one factor. For most people we recommend the GLC for its balance of price and quality; see our ranking of the best Mercedes SUVs. If reliability is your top priority, the GLE is the most reliable Mercedes SUV to choose.
Most reliable Mercedes SUV FAQs
Are Mercedes SUVs reliable?
They are average to good. The GLE and GLS score 80 and 78 out of 100 in J.D. Power owner ratings.
Is the GLC or GLE more reliable?
The GLE, with 80/100 against 74/100 for the GLC, and fewer recalls in 2021–2023.
What is the best used Mercedes SUV year?
For the GLE, 2022 or newer. The 2020 model had the most recalls.
Does Mercedes fix recalls for free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Related reads
- Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC: 2026 Price, Specs, Problems and Best Years
- GLC vs GLE: 2026 Price, Size, Space and Which Mercedes to Buy
- Best Mercedes SUV in 2026: 9 Picks Ranked
- Mercedes SUV Models: The Full Lineup
For more Mercedes SUV guides, visit MercedesSUV.com.