At a Glance
The Mercedes-benz Gls-class has 5 identified common problems across 2 generations, with the X166 (2015-2019) being the most affected generation and tyres & wheels the most common problem category. Based on 11K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Mercedes-benz Gls-class common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Mercedes-benz Gls-class generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Mercedes-benz Gls-class owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Mercedes-benz Gls-class owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Mercedes-benz Gls-class Generations
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Most Common Mercedes-benz Gls-class MOT Failures
Every reason Mercedes-benz Gls-class vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 38.68% |
| 2 | Tyre condition | 13.39% |
| 3 | Brake pads or linings worn | 9.33% |
| 4 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 5.04% |
| 5 | Driveshaft fault | 4.44% |
| 6 | Windscreen washer not working | 3.24% |
| 7 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.24% |
| 8 | Indicator fault | 2.41% |
| 9 | Seat belt condition | 2.11% |
| 10 | Brake performance below minimum | 2.03% |
| 11 | Brake disc or drum worn | 1.88% |
| 12 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 1.81% |
| 13 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 1.35% |
| 14 | Airbag warning light on | 0.98% |
| 15 | Position lamp not working | 0.75% |
| 16 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.75% |
| 17 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.75% |
| 18 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.68% |
| 19 | Brake caliper fault | 0.53% |
| 20 | Number plate lamp not working | 0.53% |
| 21 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.53% |
| 22 | Headlamp fault | 0.38% |
| 23 | ABS fault | 0.30% |
| 24 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.30% |
| 25 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.30% |
| 26 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.30% |
| 27 | Stop lamp not working | 0.30% |
| 28 | Suspension air bellows damaged | 0.30% |
| 29 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 0.23% |
| 30 | Driver seat fault | 0.23% |
| 31 | Passenger seat fault | 0.23% |
| 32 | Transmission oil leak | 0.23% |
| 33 | Tyre pressure monitoring system fault | 0.23% |
| 34 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.23% |
| 35 | Towbar fault | 0.23% |
| 36 | Daytime running lamp not working | 0.15% |
| 37 | Horn not working | 0.15% |
| 38 | Propshaft fault | 0.15% |
| 39 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.15% |
| 40 | Suspension unit fault | 0.15% |
| 41 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.15% |
| 42 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.08% |
| 43 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.08% |
| 44 | Exhaust leak | 0.08% |
| 45 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.08% |
| 46 | Full power hydraulic brake fault | 0.08% |
| 47 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.08% |
| 48 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.08% |
| 49 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.08% |
| 50 | Steering arm worn | 0.08% |
| 51 | Steering lock fault | 0.08% |
| 52 | Steering rack fault | 0.08% |
| 53 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.08% |
Showing all 53 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Mercedes-benz Gls-class MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Mercedes-benz Gls-class, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Mercedes-benz Gls-class problems?
Based on analysis of 11K Mercedes-benz Gls-class MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 5 identified common problems across 2 generations. The most frequently flagged issue is "Tyre condition". Tyres & Wheels is the most common problem category.
Which Mercedes-benz Gls-class generation has the most problems?
The Mercedes-benz Gls-class X166 (2015-2019) (2015–2019) has the highest number of identified common problems (5). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Mercedes-benz Gls-class?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Mercedes-benz Gls-class owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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