Consumer Reports Ranks MB Dead Last in Reliability (11/15/2022)
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 6,987
Likes: 2,187
From: Colorado
'21 AMG53 wDPP & ARC, 19 GLC300 - Former-03 C240,2 ML BlueTecs,20 GLE450 E-ABC,15 Cayenne D,17 Macan
As is normally the case, there is something materially wrong with their top pick.
In this case, Hyundai recalled almost twice the number of cars they sold. Engine failures and fires. It's an improvement for Hyundai, since it's been higher than that for several years now.
JD Powers isn't a reliability score, it's a "Was the car what you expected / hoped" survey.
Neither influence my buying decisions.
Last edited by mikapen; Nov 17, 2022 at 09:59 AM.
Member
Joined: Aug 2021
Posts: 246
Likes: 74
SUV
or the folks that plan to keep cars for a long time, yes, these reports do have a meaning and will swing them one way or the other. I have not known anyone that buys a German car and plans to keep it long time past warranty let alone driving it to 100K. Lol. But there are plenty for Lexus.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 6,987
Likes: 2,187
From: Colorado
'21 AMG53 wDPP & ARC, 19 GLC300 - Former-03 C240,2 ML BlueTecs,20 GLE450 E-ABC,15 Cayenne D,17 Macan
Grouping CU or Powers with Car Magazines is a horrible disrespect for Car Magazines.
I peruse lots of Car Magazines and they influence me. Actually did some minor work for Automobile Mag when David E. Davis was publisher.
CU is no Automobile Mag. I don't trust its toaster reviews these days, either.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,062
Likes: 4,565
From: Maryland
2024 S580
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 775
Likes: 413
From: Pennsylvania
2024 GLE 450 4matic
These ratings are designed more to sell subscriptions than provide any meaningful insight. Your best bet is to either follow or participate in enthusiast groups like this one with the caveat that you'll have to weed out the haters and extreme fanboys, leaving the middle of the road owners opinions as valid information. And, keeping in mind a small percentage of folks with a gripe are the ones doing the majority of posts. The silent majority happily motoring along usually have less to say.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 289
Likes: 94
Subaru BRZ
These ratings are designed more to sell subscriptions than provide any meaningful insight. Your best bet is to either follow or participate in enthusiast groups like this one with the caveat that you'll have to weed out the haters and extreme fanboys, leaving the middle of the road owners opinions as valid information. And, keeping in mind a small percentage of folks with a gripe are the ones doing the majority of posts. The silent majority happily motoring along usually have less to say.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2020
Posts: 4
Likes: 3
From: Erie, PA
2020 GLE 350 4matic
I can attest to that rating as I have a 2020 GLE 350 bought new and and it is the worst mistake I eve made. Has 3,600 miles on it as of now and had a lot of issues with it. The main issue is it will go into limp mode without warning (all of a sudden and have to drive 15 MPH or have it towed numerous times. The safety systems BSW shut off by themselves. Mercedes service said it was bad gas, but I have an F150, Acura RDX and Subaru OB 3.6 touring that use the same brand of gas with no issues.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,539
Likes: 3,670
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
I can attest to that rating as I have a 2020 GLE 350 bought new and and it is the worst mistake I eve made. Has 3,600 miles on it as of now and had a lot of issues with it. The main issue is it will go into limp mode without warning (all of a sudden and have to drive 15 MPH or have it towed numerous times. The safety systems BSW shut off by themselves. Mercedes service said it was bad gas, but I have an F150, Acura RDX and Subaru OB 3.6 touring that use the same brand of gas with no issues.
https://mbworld.org/forums/gle-class...ctane-gas.html
All the other cars you mentioned only require regular gas instead of premium so it's not a meaningful comparison...
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 289
Likes: 94
Subaru BRZ
I can attest to that rating as I have a 2020 GLE 350 bought new and and it is the worst mistake I eve made. Has 3,600 miles on it as of now and had a lot of issues with it. The main issue is it will go into limp mode without warning (all of a sudden and have to drive 15 MPH or have it towed numerous times. The safety systems BSW shut off by themselves. Mercedes service said it was bad gas, but I have an F150, Acura RDX and Subaru OB 3.6 touring that use the same brand of gas with no issues.
Brand of gas isnt what matters, what octane are you using?
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 356
Likes: 103
2021 GLE 450
My wife has a Honda Pilot. It’s been a good car but Consumers Reports just don’t like Honda and have never rated them favourably compared to a Toyota.
Same might be true with Mercedes. CR don’t like the electronics in cars and this drags down the ratings.
Toban
Same might be true with Mercedes. CR don’t like the electronics in cars and this drags down the ratings.
Toban
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 2,129
Likes: 940
From: Costco
2023 S500
I also think some of this has to do with the type of buyer for these models. **Stereotype warning** They’re well off but not really rich like an S class buyer to not overly care if things break or younger C class buyer who could care less about Consumer Reports.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 289
Likes: 94
Subaru BRZ
I can only surmise that the entire E/GLE line has issues and they are design and engineering related since that’s the only thing they share since they are assembled at different plants. I say that under the assumption that they share some inherent engineering designs (I have no idea if that is true).
I also think some of this has to do with the type of buyer for these models. **Stereotype warning** They’re well off but not really rich like an S class buyer to not overly care if things break or younger C class buyer who could care less about Consumer Reports.
I also think some of this has to do with the type of buyer for these models. **Stereotype warning** They’re well off but not really rich like an S class buyer to not overly care if things break or younger C class buyer who could care less about Consumer Reports.
If it was a systemic problem on the E and GLE lines, across 22 years of models, then nearly all MB vehicles must have some serious issues since they all share so many different parts/tech.
Another possibility is they only managed to get a bare minimum number of survey respondents who all happened to have cars from the early 2000s and are clearly experiencing more problems by now.
I have no idea how statistically relevant these rankings from CR are, i.e. whether or not they adjust for variables like the age of a respondent's car, whether they were the first owner, etc etc. Maybe all of this is better detailed behind the paywall... but I'm not going to bother paying.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 2,129
Likes: 940
From: Costco
2023 S500
Well, it also states that the issues included in the rankings only cover the previous 12 months. It’s not hard to imagine that most of those issues are from the newer models, as anyone still driving an early 2000’s model likely has everything fleshed out.
And, while I agree that enthusiast forums tend to amplify issues, there’s likely some significance to the reported issues on a whole. I agree that most happy drivers aren’t here reporting as such. But conversely, not everyone with issues complain about them here, either. Take your typical Soccer mom who has a 48-volt failure. I doubt she’s here writing about it, either. The fact of the matter is that over and underreporting goes both ways and I would estimate the average buyer of the GLE aren’t necessarily the type that might be an “enthusiast.”
And, while I agree that enthusiast forums tend to amplify issues, there’s likely some significance to the reported issues on a whole. I agree that most happy drivers aren’t here reporting as such. But conversely, not everyone with issues complain about them here, either. Take your typical Soccer mom who has a 48-volt failure. I doubt she’s here writing about it, either. The fact of the matter is that over and underreporting goes both ways and I would estimate the average buyer of the GLE aren’t necessarily the type that might be an “enthusiast.”
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 2,838
Likes: 1,601
From: Florida
An article from the Drive stated this was the biggest issue:
I think it would be better if the publications would divide reliability between mechanical and electronics.
Originally Posted by The Drive
The publication says that this is due to extensive "problems with the in-car electronics such as screen freezing or going blank." It also notes that sometimes these issues get so bad that physical hardware must be replaced to fix it.
I think it would be better if the publications would divide reliability between mechanical and electronics.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
Let’s not forget the 25-30,000 GLE’s that Mercedes built in mid 2019 (MY2020) and stored waiting for completion as components became available. They had them packed so tight that many couldn’t be put together even as parts became available. Anything done off the Assembly line loses some quality control. Ford is currently doing much the same with trucks.
Most of us can live with minor issues that are corrected under warranty. The power train and especially the engines seem to be solid.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 2,129
Likes: 940
From: Costco
2023 S500
Mercedes isn’t the only one dealing with electronics. It shouldn’t be a pass unless Mercedes is doing something other manufactures aren’t doing. What electronics is MB doing that others aren’t and that should give MB a pass on their poor score?
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,666
Likes: 4,568
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
It is humorous to see excuses made for MB, that the vehicles are complex and many third party suppliers are involved - these and more are table stakes for the auto industry. MB fails time and again with their products, and does not deliver customer care from corporate or their clown ring referred to as dealers. Adding salt to the many grievous wounds is the price level at which MB participates, which should be connected with superior product and customer care, but isn't. MB quality and dealer experience is on par with Kia and Hyundai, and is several steps below Honda, Toyota, Ford and VW.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,539
Likes: 3,670
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
@Frenetic you are spot on again. It shouldn't be a pass. MB is using garden-variety everything in their products. Base- and mid-model MBs have nothing that other car companies don't also offer.
It is humorous to see excuses made for MB, that the vehicles are complex and many third party suppliers are involved - these and more are table stakes for the auto industry. MB fails time and again with their products, and does not deliver customer care from corporate or their clown ring referred to as dealers. Adding salt to the many grievous wounds is the price level at which MB participates, which should be connected with superior product and customer care, but isn't. MB quality and dealer experience is on par with Kia and Hyundai, and is several steps below Honda, Toyota, Ford and VW.
It is humorous to see excuses made for MB, that the vehicles are complex and many third party suppliers are involved - these and more are table stakes for the auto industry. MB fails time and again with their products, and does not deliver customer care from corporate or their clown ring referred to as dealers. Adding salt to the many grievous wounds is the price level at which MB participates, which should be connected with superior product and customer care, but isn't. MB quality and dealer experience is on par with Kia and Hyundai, and is several steps below Honda, Toyota, Ford and VW.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 289
Likes: 94
Subaru BRZ
Well, it also states that the issues included in the rankings only cover the previous 12 months. It’s not hard to imagine that most of those issues are from the newer models, as anyone still driving an early 2000’s model likely has everything fleshed out.
And, while I agree that enthusiast forums tend to amplify issues, there’s likely some significance to the reported issues on a whole. I agree that most happy drivers aren’t here reporting as such. But conversely, not everyone with issues complain about them here, either. Take your typical Soccer mom who has a 48-volt failure. I doubt she’s here writing about it, either. The fact of the matter is that over and underreporting goes both ways and I would estimate the average buyer of the GLE aren’t necessarily the type that might be an “enthusiast.”
And, while I agree that enthusiast forums tend to amplify issues, there’s likely some significance to the reported issues on a whole. I agree that most happy drivers aren’t here reporting as such. But conversely, not everyone with issues complain about them here, either. Take your typical Soccer mom who has a 48-volt failure. I doubt she’s here writing about it, either. The fact of the matter is that over and underreporting goes both ways and I would estimate the average buyer of the GLE aren’t necessarily the type that might be an “enthusiast.”
I wonder how many issues a MB from 2000 could have from Nov 2021 to Nov 2022 lol
The GLE clearly has known issues, particularly with the 48V system, but it doesn't seem as wide spread as this specific forum makes it look. I'm hoping that once I get my GLE 63, all of the defect-related issues (if any) will crop up in the first year, I'll get it sort it under warranty, and then be a happy camper for the rest of my time with that car.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 14,666
Likes: 4,568
From: unbegrenzt
2017 GLE350 4MATIC
MB dealer: inattentive, indifferent and unavailable salesmen/women. No loaners, coffee or granola bars (whoops we forgot to buy more!), which in former times were held up as distinguishing features of a MB dealer "experience".
Ford/Honda/VW/Porsche/BMW dealer: attentive, warm, friendly and available Sales Professionals. The VW dealer had fresh coffee, granola bars and bottled water there for the enjoyment of its customers. Lowly VW!
There is nothing offered by MB dealers that is isn't offered with better quality or in greater quantity than other vehicle brands. MB dealers additionally offer the service of lying service department schleppers. I have recounted this story several times.
Member
Joined: Jan 2021
Posts: 82
Likes: 31
From: Calgary, AB
2021 GLE63S
Sigh.... Only a few days from when I picked my GLE out of the shop and it developed a new habit of making enormous creaks when driving over a speed bump. Sad to see MB is last and a little surprised dead last...behind even VW and Jeep. Even more surprising is that BMW got 3rd place.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,062
Likes: 4,565
From: Maryland
2024 S580
Quite possibly, the dealers we each visit may be in different universes.
MB dealer: inattentive, indifferent and unavailable salesmen/women. No loaners, coffee or granola bars (whoops we forgot to buy more!), which in former times were held up as distinguishing features of a MB dealer "experience".
Ford/Honda/VW/Porsche/BMW dealer: attentive, warm, friendly and available Sales Professionals. The VW dealer had fresh coffee, granola bars and bottled water there for the enjoyment of its customers. Lowly VW!
There is nothing offered by MB dealers that is isn't offered with better quality or in greater quantity than other vehicle brands. MB dealers additionally offer the service of lying service department schleppers. I have recounted this story several times.
MB dealer: inattentive, indifferent and unavailable salesmen/women. No loaners, coffee or granola bars (whoops we forgot to buy more!), which in former times were held up as distinguishing features of a MB dealer "experience".
Ford/Honda/VW/Porsche/BMW dealer: attentive, warm, friendly and available Sales Professionals. The VW dealer had fresh coffee, granola bars and bottled water there for the enjoyment of its customers. Lowly VW!
There is nothing offered by MB dealers that is isn't offered with better quality or in greater quantity than other vehicle brands. MB dealers additionally offer the service of lying service department schleppers. I have recounted this story several times.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,539
Likes: 3,670
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
Quite possibly, the dealers we each visit may be in different universes.
MB dealer: inattentive, indifferent and unavailable salesmen/women. No loaners, coffee or granola bars (whoops we forgot to buy more!), which in former times were held up as distinguishing features of a MB dealer "experience".
Ford/Honda/VW/Porsche/BMW dealer: attentive, warm, friendly and available Sales Professionals. The VW dealer had fresh coffee, granola bars and bottled water there for the enjoyment of its customers. Lowly VW!
There is nothing offered by MB dealers that is isn't offered with better quality or in greater quantity than other vehicle brands. MB dealers additionally offer the service of lying service department schleppers. I have recounted this story several times.
MB dealer: inattentive, indifferent and unavailable salesmen/women. No loaners, coffee or granola bars (whoops we forgot to buy more!), which in former times were held up as distinguishing features of a MB dealer "experience".
Ford/Honda/VW/Porsche/BMW dealer: attentive, warm, friendly and available Sales Professionals. The VW dealer had fresh coffee, granola bars and bottled water there for the enjoyment of its customers. Lowly VW!
There is nothing offered by MB dealers that is isn't offered with better quality or in greater quantity than other vehicle brands. MB dealers additionally offer the service of lying service department schleppers. I have recounted this story several times.
But in the end, the car matters more than the service as I can choose different dealers to improve that part. I can state that whatever Ford, Volvo, VW, Infinity, etc. I have driven I consider vastly inferior to the MB's, BMW and Audis.
Admittedly though I also Iook at cars from a safety perspective in addition to design and features. Coming from Germany and seeing and experiencing hi-speed accidents first hand I will only trust a few brands in that respect.
