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Model reliability

Mercedes-Benz X reliability

The Mercedes-Benz X fails its MOT more often than most cars up to 5 years old: 20.3% of 3,482 tests failed in 2023, against 14% on average.

Up to 5 years old
20.3% failed their MOT
Worse than most
From 3,482 MOT tests of Mercedes-Benz Xs this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 5× as oftenExhaust emissions4.2% vs 0.8%Fix about £150
Fails 7× as oftenBrake performance3.5% vs 0.5%
Fails 78% more oftenMechanical brake components3.2% vs 1.8%
Fails 33% more oftenWipers2.8% vs 2.1%
Safety recalls

11 DVSA recalls for the Mercedes-Benz X

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2023/19121 Jul 2023Built 2017–2020On affected vehicles due to a potential error in the press-fitting process during production a leak at the radial shaft seals of the rear axle could occur and allow oil to enter the parking brake drum.

On affected vehicles due to a potential error in the press-fitting process during production�a leak at the radial shaft seals of the rear axle could occur and allow oil to enter the parking brake drum.

Fix: Replace the radial shaft sealing rings in the rear axle tube and parking brake shoes if contaminated

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 4,731 vehicles

R/2022/15515 Jun 2022Built 2017–2020On certain vehicles the glass of the canopy rear window could break

On certain vehicles the glass of the canopy rear window could break.

Fix: As a precautionary measure install EPDM blocks (ethylene-propylene-diene rubber) in the rear section of the canopy for vehicles that were additionally equipped with a canopy.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 4,738 vehicles

R/2021/38530 Nov 2021Built 2017–2020The return pipe of the oil cooler could chafe on the front axle cross member.

The return pipe of the oil cooler may chafe on the front axle cross member.

Fix: Measure the distance between the return line and the front axle cross member on the potentially affected vehicles and check the oil line for leaks and damage. If necessary the oil line will be replaced and the distance ensured with the aid of a new retainer.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 1,546 vehicles

R/2020/27014 Dec 2020Built 2017–2018The function of the child safety lock on the rear doors in combination with the super lock function cannot always be ensured

The child safety lock on the rear doors in combination with the �Super-Lock� function cannot always be ensured.

Fix: Install an additional grommet on the rear doors on the child safety lever on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 1,128 vehicles

R/2020/2585 Oct 2020Built 2017–2019Potential leakage and gradual loss of fluid from the hydraulic steering system may occur

Leakage and subsequently a gradual loss of fluid from the hydraulic steering system.

Fix: Check the screw connection of the hydraulic steering line and ensure the correct tightening torque is applied. Top up fluid level if required.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 4,535 vehicles

R/2020/17314 Sept 2020Built 2018The additional function for the trailer stabilization may not have been included as part of the retrofitting of trailer hitches

The additional function for the trailer stabilization (TSA) might not have been included as part of the retrofitting of trailer hitches.

Fix: Replace the ESP control unit on the affected vehicles to provide the TSA function.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 30 vehicles

R/2020/17114 Sept 2020Built 2007–2020The operator's manual does not indicate the correct maximum roof load values

The operator�s manual does not indicate the correct maximum roof load values.

Fix: Replace the operator�s manuals and update software for the vehicle�s digital operating manual.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 4,631 vehicles

R/2020/2163 Sept 2020Built 2017–2019The active brake assist may mistakenly detect an obstacle where there is no obstacle

Active Brake Assist system may mistakenly detect an obstacle where there is no obstacle

Fix: Update the software of the driver assistance systems control unit in the affected vehicle

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 4,089 vehicles

R/2019/16314 Jun 2019Built 2017–2019The maximum permissible roof load of 150 kg is not documented in the operating manual

The maximum permissible roof load is not documented in the operating manual

Fix: The vehicle operating manuals are to be exchanged. For all vehicles with canopies installed the corresponding accessory operating manual will also be exchanged

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 3,546 vehicles

R/2019/14414 Jun 2019Built 2017–2019Incorrect mounting instructions supplied for retrofitting a trailer coupling

Incorrect specified tightening torque for the mounting screws of a cross member to be installed in conjunction with towbar fitment.

Fix: Mounting bolts on the trailer coupling are to be replaced if already fitted. Instructions to be updated on supplied kits.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 2,324 vehicles

R/2018/1734 Aug 2018Built 2018Tyre pressure monitoring system software error

On affected vehicles the possibility exists that there may be a software error in the tyre pressure monitoring system of some X-Class vehicles If the tyre pressure falls below the minimum level required the intended warning message may not be shown in instrument cluster as a result of this error. Driving with tyre pressure that is too low causes increased and/or uneven tyre wear and changes the steering and braking behaviour of the vehicle. This may increase the risk of accident

Fix: As a precautionary measure recall the affected vehicles and perform a software check/update in the tyre pressure monitor control unit.

Recalled models: X-CLASS · 99 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Mercedes-Benz X before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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