repaired · 2025 Q4
Electrical system: wiring
Risk. An overheated ground cable increases the risk of a fire.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 2 owner complaints about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450, most often about the wheels. It is covered by 8 safety recalls, and for recall 21V-354 the manufacturer reports only 81% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through November 12, 2026. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 has problems
2 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
2Wheels
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 2 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
8 recalls
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
repaired · 2024 Q4
Electrical system: 12v/24v/48v battery
Risk. The inability to operate safety features (eCall system, hazard lights, electric seats, or automatic door locks) can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
repaired · 2026 Q2
Communication: auto crash notification
Risk. A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency…
repaired · 2023 Q2
Sensor: side impact
Risk. Air bags and seatbelts that don't function as intended can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Show 4 more recalls
repaired · 2023 Q2
Rear/other: retractor
Risk. An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
repaired · 2023 Q4
Sensing system: camera
Risk. A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
repaired · 2023 Q1
Sensor: occupant classification
Risk. Air bags and seat belts that do not perform properly in a crash can increase the risk of injury.
repaired · 2023 Q4
Communication: auto crash notification
Risk. Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Mercedes-Benz.
Best & worst years
2021 vs. every other CLS 450 year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the CLS 450 median. How we score
'19'20'21'22'23
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
In owners' words
What CLS 450 owners report
Recent wheels complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
I own a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 and have experienced three separate incidents involving cracked rims on this vehicle. Approximately 18 months ago, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership identified a cracked rear rim, which was replaced through insurance. During the replacement process, an…
During a trip driving from Sedona to San Diego, the rear passenger side rim (Part No. 25740120007x23) (see Picture1) failed with a through crack on the shoulder opposite the spoke side (see Picture2). This led to the loss of air pressure in the tire. The tire pressure sensor did indicate a low…
Own a 2021 CLS 450?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.