Mercedes-Benz Recall 21V-071: Electronic stability control (ESC) – software

Affected: 2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, 2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450, 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE580 and 2 more. Filed with NHTSA on February 12, 2021, covering about 41,838 vehicles.

The problem

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, and 2020 GLS450, GLE580, GLS580 vehicles. During certain evasive driving maneuvers, the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software may apply torque to one of the front wheels, pulling the vehicle to one side. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

The risk

If the vehicle unexpectedly pulls to one side during an evasive maneuver, it can increase the risk of a crash.

The fix

MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the ESP software, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030004.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign21V-071 (21V071000)
Manufacturer number2021030004
ManufacturerMercedes-Benz USA, LLC
ComponentElectronic stability control (ESC) › Control module › Software
Report dateFebruary 12, 2021
Owners notifiedMarch 31, 2021
Vehicles affected41,838
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the stability & traction control

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 21V-071 repair free?

Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the ESP software, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030004.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 41,838 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.