2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Check engine light6 owner complaints
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
- Sudden loss of power5 owner complaints
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- Electrical systemRecall number 24V207000, Mar 15, 2024
- Power trainRecall number 24V118000, Feb 16, 2024
- VisibilityRecall number 23V177000, Mar 17, 2023
- SeatsRecall number 22V732000, Sep 30, 2022
- StructureRecall number 22V680000, Sep 12, 2022
- Air bagsRecall number 22V466000, Jul 1, 2022
- Electrical systemRecall number 22V365000, May 20, 2022
- Electrical systemRecall number 22V231000, Apr 8, 2022
- Back over preventionRecall number 22V232000, Apr 8, 2022
- Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 21V961000, Dec 13, 2021
- SeatsRecall number 21V818000, Oct 18, 2021
- Back over preventionRecall number 21V354000, May 14, 2021
- EquipmentRecall number 21V288000, Apr 23, 2021
- Electronic stability control (ESC)Recall number 21V071000, Feb 12, 2021
- StructureRecall number 21V057000, Feb 5, 2021
- Electrical systemRecall number 21V058000, Feb 5, 2021
- SteeringRecall number 20V626000, Oct 9, 2020
- SuspensionRecall number 20V329000, Jun 5, 2020
- StructureRecall number 20V172000, Mar 20, 2020
- Electrical systemRecall number 20V089000, Feb 14, 2020
- StructureRecall number 19V709000, Oct 4, 2019
- EquipmentRecall number 19V587000, Aug 12, 2019
Repairs the maker may still cover
Warranty extensions can cover a known problem beyond the normal warranty. Check whether this car is still within the time or mileage limit.
- Fuel/propulsion systemJul 31, 2026
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
- Red coolant warning in instrument clusterSep 17, 2026
- CEL light on with no drivability concernsSep 9, 2026
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 problem
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Buying a used 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
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