RoadVitals

2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
4
Latest Oct 8, 2020
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
3
Latest Nov 1, 2019
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
0

Overview

Our database contains 4 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S, most frequently naming the brakes, powertrain (other) and steering categories. 3 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 97 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

  • Brakes125.0%
  • Powertrain (other)125.0%
  • Steering125.0%
  • Suspension125.0%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

3 campaigns cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov

COMMUNICATION

Nov 1, 2019
24,226 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf
The risk: An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.
The remedy: MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.Manufacturer number 2019120008View on NHTSA.gov

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Mar 14, 2017
51 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2016 E350 vehicles, 2016-2017 GL450 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2014 ML350 4Matic BlueTec vehicles, 2015 S550, S550 4Matic and C300 4Matic Sedan vehicles, 2015-2016 C300 Sedan vehicles, and 2017 SL63 AMG vehicles. Various control units on these vehicles may have been updated with incorrect software, potentially affecting the correct deployment of the air bags in the event of a crash.
The risk: If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.View on NHTSA.gov

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

May 17, 2016
136 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 AMG GT S vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015 to July 24, 2015. In affected vehicles, the adhesive bond between the carbon-fiber driveshaft and the rear flange may fail, and as a result, there may be a loss of torque to the rear wheels.
The risk: If the adhesive bond fails and results in a loss of torque to the rear wheels, the vehicle operator may be unable to move the vehicle, or may experience deceleration if the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the carbon-fiber driveshaft, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on July 29, 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2016050008.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.View on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

Brakes
Filed Oct 8, 2020

I BOUGHT A C63 AMG 2016 FROM DCH FORD OF THOUSAND OAKS CA ON 9/18/20 AND 9/21 I HEARD BRAKE NOISE I CALL THE DEALER TO INFORM THEM ABOUT THE NOISE AND THEY SAID I BOUGHT AS IS, I TOOK THE CAR TO MERCEDES BENZ OF ENCINO CA TO GET A FULL INSPECTION . I GOT A REPORT STATING THAT THE BRAKES WERE 2 MM ALMOST NO BRAKES I CALL THE DCH FORD AND ALSO SEND THEM THE REPORT FROM MERCEDES BENZ DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE BRAKES WERE 4 MM WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR, I ONLY DROVE THE CAR FOR 273 MILES WHICH IS NOT ENOUGH FOR WEARING DOWN THE BRAKES AND ENDING WITH BAD BRAKES. I JUST NEED THEM TO TAKE CARE OF THIS ISSUE AS WE ALL KNOW THIS IS A SAFETY MATTER EVEN IF I BOUGHT IT AS IS , THEY CAN'T SELL A CAR WITH BAD BRAKES.

NHTSA ID
11363478
Incident
Sep 18, 2020
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 8, 2020

MY GLC300 2016 COULDN'T START AND THE INFORMATION APPEARED ON THE SCREEN: 'POWER STEERING MALFUNCTION'. ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE, I FOUND THAT MY CAR NEEDED TO BE RECALLED DUE TO STEERING PROBLEMS, BUT I DID NOT RECEIVE A CALL ABOUT IT.

NHTSA ID
11353885
Incident
Sep 8, 2020
Mileage
40,567 mi
Suspension
Filed Jul 22, 2020

THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF WAS ALMOST DETACHED WHEN I TRIED TO OPEN IT ON THE FREEWAY,AND THE PROBLEM NOW IS NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY.

NHTSA ID
11340800
Incident
Jun 12, 2020
Mileage
42,354 mi
Steering
Filed Feb 15, 2019

DRIVING THE CAR IN THE HIGHWAY AND STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AT 40 MILES PER HOUR (MIRACLE THAT I DID NOT HAVE AND ACCIDENT. SENT THE CAR TO THE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES AND SAID IT WAS A ELECTRONIC (SOFTWARE ISSUE ). SAME PROBLEM CAME BACK AFTER TRYING TO TURN OUT OF A BUSY STREET. CAR IS AT THE DEALER AND I DO NOT THINK THEY KNOW WHAT IS THE ISSUE OTHER THAN REPLACE ALL KINDS OF PARTS. I NEED HELP SINCE MERCEDES DOES NOT FEEL THAT IS A PROBLEM THAT SHOULD MOBILIZE THEIR EFFORTS TO RESOLVE- I GUESS IF I HAD LET THE CAR GET TO THE DITCH AND CRASH THEY WOULD BE MORE RESPONSIVE. THE CAR STILL AT THE DEALER 2/14/19

NHTSA ID
11180427
Incident
Dec 19, 2018
Mileage
47,000 mi

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

LI20.10-P-072886

ENGINE

Complaint Check Engine Light ON with DTC P012800 "The Coolant Temperature is Below the Specified Temperature" active and/or stored in the ME (N3/10). There are no drivability concerns related to this complaint. Cause Root cause varies Remedy Prior to performing any repairs for this complaint: With a cold engine, pressurize the high temp coolant circuit and while it's under pressure, release the cap on the low temp coolant circuit and check if the pressure drops right away or not. If the pressure drops, the lower coolant hoses are swapped. Correct this, fill, bleed and test drive the vehicle. If the complaint returns, then continue with the steps below. IMPORTANT: Use VMI to check for the following emission extended warranty –> Engine Thermostat (incl. software update) MY19-23, Various Models and Platforms (167, 190, 205, 213, 217, 222, 223, 232, 253, 290, 463) If the vehicle is covered under the above emission extended warranty, please perform steps outlined in the accompanying NCU prior to those outlined in this document. If vehicle is not covered under the above emission extended warranty or the complaint continues to occur, then proceed as follows: Check for available software updates to the ME (N3/10). If updated software is available, perform the update, clear the DTC and the perform each of the "WARM START" and "COLD START" test drives listed below twice. If the code does not re-appear then release the vehicle. If there is no new software available OR the DTC returns after the test drives then perform the following steps: • Drain the coolant through a fine mesh sieve and check for signs of debris. Additionally, inspect the coolant reservoir for debris. If any debris is found take pictures of the reservoir and the mesh filter and "flush" the system at least 2-3 times to clear as much of the debris as possible • Replace the thermostat and bleed the system as outlined in AR20.00-P-1142-04A, evacuate the system for 20-30 minutes instead of the 5 minutes specified in step 22 • NOTE: Please use all the tools specified in the AR document. The DTC will continue to populate if the circuit is not properly bled • NOTE: There are two valid thermostats to choose from in the parts section of this LI. Please verify which PN is applicable for the vehicle being worked on via XENTRY Parts Information • After bleeding the system clear the DTC and perform each of the "WARM START" and "COLD START" test drives listed below twice. If the DTC does not reappear after the tests, release the vehicle If the ME (N3/10) software is up to date, the thermostat has already been replaced, and the complaint persists open a TIPS case and attach the following documents: • Initial quick test • ME (N3/10) control unit log • The results of an R48 test from a “yes” response and from a “no” response • Pictures of the coolant reservoir and mesh sieve (mentioned above) WARM START · Begin with the engine coolant temperature at approximately 50 degrees C · Activate the AC system, if defrost is not in use open the windows · Drive the car normally until a coolant temperature of 75 degrees C is achieved · Depress the accelerator pedal 50% for ~5 seconds (partial acceleration) · Let off the accelerator pedal and let the car coast for ~10 seconds · Continue to drive the car normally COLD START · Drive for ~7 miles (normal driving) · Shut off the engine in a parking lot (or similar), wait 30 seconds, then restart and continue driving · Depress the accelerator pedal 50% for ~5 seconds (partial acceleration) · Let off the accelerator pedal and let the car coast for ~10 seconds · Continue to drive the car normally

LI35.30-P-058566

POWER TRAIN

Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by experimentally loosening the outboard collar nut (by 1 turn), the problem is due to cracking of the microweld between the wheel bearing inner race and the joint housing of the side shaft. Note: The collar nut must always be replaced after being loosened. See also LI33.20-P-078406 Remedy Coat contact surface of side shaft with wheel bearing with Molykote paint. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Remove side shafts 2. Clean contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing before") before coating with Molykote, using "spirit" (free of dust and grease) 3. Coat contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing after") with Molykote and leave to dry for "one hour" in removed condition 4. Reinstall side shafts Note: Before using the antifriction coating (Molykote), stir it or shake it thoroughly for (at least 1 minute).

PSL-NCU Return Parts 6/26

STRUCTURE:BODY

Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 16th, 2026. After July 16th, returns of these parts will no longer be accepted. These parts should be returned via ZSR Special Return, using item category SCM Authorized Part Return. Please include a copy of this NCU as your authorization to return these parts. This procedure will not affect your return allowance. All returned parts will be replaced in accordance with the chart provided below.

LI82.85-P-080559

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Complaint The customer requests deactivation of the N112/9 HERMES communication module Note: Deactivation of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) is not supported for gray-market vehicles. Cause Before deactivating the HERMES control unit (N112/9), it must be clarified by the legal department of the respective MPC whether and under what conditions deactivation may be carried out. If deactivation is not permissible under applicable law, the HERMES control unit (N112/9) must not be deactivated. Remedy Please inform the customer that, following deactivation, the vehicle will no longer be able to place an automatic emergency call, nor will the customer be able to place a manual emergency call. After deactivation, the Mercedes-Benz Digital Extras will also no longer be available. Please have the attached sample form checked by your market's legal department, adapted to local requirements if necessary, and approved. Furthermore, after informing the customer about the effects of deactivation, please have the workshop complete and sign the approved form together with the customer, and send it to the MPC via a TIPS case for audit-compliant documentation. Furthermore, the workshop must affix a sticker to the emergency call button cover on the overhead control panel and to the emergency call button itself. After affixing, pictures of the overhead control panel need to be attached to the TIPS case for audit-proof documentation. After deactivation, the HERMES control unit (N112/9) is in the "Out of Service" operating status, and the display "SOS NOT READY" appears in the Audio/COMAND system. This display message tells the customer that the emergency call function is not available. In detail, the following steps must be carried out 1. The workshop must inform the customer about the effects of deactivation (see above) 2. Legal review by the MPC Legal department to determine whether deactivation is permissible for the vehicle and provision of a market-specific customer form based on the examples (see "Example - Deactivation communication module HERMES customer declaration English V3.0.pdf") 3. Completion of the market-specific customer form by the workshop and obtaining the customer’s signature 4. Creation of a XSS ticket by the workshop for the MPC with the signed customer form attached 5. Written confirmation of legally reviewed and approved deactivation by the MPC in the TIPS case (see attachment How+to+request+adding+Code+09o+via+XSS+v2.pdf, point 1) 6. Creation of an XSS ticket for documentation of the SA code "09o" (zero nine oh) in the Vehicle Documentation System (see attachment How+to+request+adding+Code+09o+via+XSS+v2.pdf, steps 2–7) 7. Ordering of stickers (part number A9078172900), quantity: 2 8. Affixing of the sticker (part number A9078172900) to the cover of the emergency call button on the overhead control panel (see attachment HERMES-Deactivation_+pictures+of+sticker.png) 9. Affixing of the sticker (part number A9078172900) to the emergency call button on the overhead control panel (see attachment HERMES-Deactivation_+pictures+of+sticker.png) 10. Taking photos of the applied stickers and attaching them to the TIPS case 11. After the XSS ticket has been successfully processed, the communication module must be deactivated using XENTRY: • Connect XENTRY Diagnosis • Access the HERMES control unit (N112/9) • "Adaptation" tab, menu item "Teach-in processes" -> "Deactivation" • Follow the instructions

LI82.85-P-080507

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Complaint After successful commissioning of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis DVD 03/2026, the message "SOS - service not activated" appears on the instrument cluster. In addition, the following two conditions are also met: • HERMES (N112/9) control unit: event code B15CE00 is ACTIVE and STORED (A+S) • Vehicle Documentation System: For the HERMES control unit, the EID1, EID2, ICCID, IMEI, IMSI, TELNR fields in the "Identification/Serial number" column have the value "-" Cause Still under analysis Remedy Recommission the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis 03/2026 and add-on 33399 installed or carry out the procedure with a newer version of XENTRY Diagnosis: XENTRY→ "N112/9 - Control unit for telematics services (HERMES)" -> "Adaptations" -> "Control unit commissioning" -> "Commissioning of previously installed control unit"

LI82.30-P-059239

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Complaint There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper blades squeaking, chattering, shuddering B: The windshield is not wiped completely (streaking) C: During the downward movement water is pulled back onto the windshield from the A-pillar (Figure 1) D: After windshield cleaning, water keeps spraying onto the windshield for several wipe cycles (Figure 2) A1: The windshield and wiper blades are contaminated with residues from car washing facilities, identifiable by the water beading. The resulting differences in the friction values between the wiper blades and the windshield can excite the wiper blades to vibrate. Note: It is mostly wax residue from the washer system, but also water-repellent nano-particle coating for paint and/or silicone-based washer fluid, that could cause this problem. A partially dry windshield also has different friction values, which can likewise result in squeaking of the wiper blades A2: The wiper blades are worn by mechanical damage (wiper lip damaged by ice or insect debris, or deformed by long periods of disuse). A3: Incorrect angle of incidence of the wiper arms to the windshield. Because of this, the rubber lip of the wiper blade may not flip over at the reversal point. Cause B: B1: Wax/ dirt residues on the windshield B2: Wiper blades deformed or worn B3: Downforce of wiper arm not OK (Figure 3) Cause C: Water is pulled back onto the windshield by the differential pressure created as the wiper arm moves downwards. Cause D: Washer water collects in the fastening of the wiper blade and is blown onto the windshield by the airstream over several wipe cycles. Note and supporting information: Wiper blades are wear parts which, even when "not used" for long periods (kept in park position), may become permanently deformed and damaged. Further stresses on the rubber wiper blade arise due to various environmental influences which progressively change the effectiveness of the rubber wiper blade and accelerate the aging process. Due to the natural aging process and wear, the wiper blades should be replaced twice a year, preferably in Spring and Fall (see operator's manual). Remedy Remedy A: A1: Cleaning entire windshield with A 000 986 40 71. A2: Checking water's flow behavior after windshield has been cleaned (see Video 1). If, after cleaning, there are still areas with water beading, then the cleaning process must be carried out again until a rejection reaction is no longer present. • Note: On the vehicle in the video (Video 1), water still beads on the bottom left of the windshield. The windshield is still not properly clean, even though it appears to be clean. The windshield is only properly clean when there are no more areas on the windshield where water beads. A3: Replace wiper blades with genuine wiper blades. Important: Only exchange wiper blades if windshield no longer has water-repellent areas Note: Replacement of wiper blades is not covered under warranty and can be replaced at the expense of the customer. Remedy B: B1: Clean windshield with intensive cleaner A 000 986 40 71. Important: Do not clean the wiper blades otherwise the graphite coating will be damaged. B2: Replace wiper blades with genuine wiper blades • Note: Replacement of wiper blades is not covered under warranty and can be replaced at the expense of the customer. B3: Check the wiper arm for excessive resistance in the bearing. Restore mobility or replace wiper arm if necessary. Remedy C: Problem inherent in design for which there is no technical remedy. Exception: X204 up to 02/2014. In these vehicles, it is possible to install the design configuration of vehicles as of 02/2014. This includes wiper arms (styled arms) with improved behavior in this respect. It is also necessary to replace the wiper blades because the styled arms feature a Top Lock connection (previously Side Lock).

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2020000
2019020
2018030
2017020
2016Viewing430

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.