2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
πŸ›‘οΈExcellent Safety Record

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class stands out with a clean slate, boasting no recalls and only one complaint, indicating high reliability and quality engineering. This clean record reflects the brand's commitment to manufacturing excellence, especially in the luxury segment.

Key Factor:Flawless safety record

πŸ“‹Why This Matters

Having zero recalls is a standout feature in today's automotive landscape, particularly for a luxury vehicle like the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. It highlights not only the manufacturer’s rigorous quality control processes but also their dedication to customer safety and satisfaction, which is crucial for retaining buyer confidence in a competitive market.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
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Expert Analysis

  • πŸ“ˆ
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • ⚠️
    Primary Risk Area:Accident
  • βš–οΈ
    Vs Brand: Better than avg (0.2)
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    Summary: Year-over-year, this model shows impressive reliability with its absence of recalls or significant issues reported. Given Mercedes-Benz's reputation for producing high-quality vehicles, this model exceeds expectations in terms of safety and mechanical soundness.

Safety & Reliability Score

100/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-0
Complaint Impact-0.05
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class

Model Year2021
MakeMERCEDES-BENZ
ModelCLS-Class
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Jan21
NEWProduction
Jul22
ISSUEFirst Report

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

1 complaints (100% of total)
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Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data
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Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 1 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟑Medium
1(100%)
βœ…Good News: No critical or high-severity complaints reported for this vehicle.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

General Quality Assurance

Issue: No reported defects or major TSBs.

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Enjoy peace of mind with your vehicle; regular maintenance is still crucial.

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Consider the track record when assessing overall value; request any available service records.

πŸ’‘Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your MERCEDES-BENZ dealer to verify recall completion status.

No Recalls Found

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Clean Safety Record Verified

2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class

Safety Milestone: The 2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class maintains a perfect record. As of February 2026, there are 0 official recalls.

Compared to other 2021 models which average multiple safety campaigns, this vehicle's clean sheet is a testament to its engineering integrity.

πŸ›‘οΈ Proactive Safety Maintenance Guide

Even with a perfect recall record, regular maintenance safeguards your vehicle's reliability. Our experts recommend monitoring these systems:

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Brake System HealthInspect pads and fluid levels every 12,000 miles to ensure stopping power.
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Electrical & BatteryTest battery load annually; modern electronics are sensitive to voltage drops.
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Visibility ComponentsReplace wiper blades every 6-12 months and polish clouded headlights.
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Tire & Wheel CheckRotate tires every 5,000 miles and check TPMS sensors for accuracy.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
βœ“

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

1 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 CLS-Class.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Accident100%
Crack100%
Steering/SuspensionπŸ”Ά Medium
WHEELS

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 pressure condition. Upon inspection of the rim, the only possible solution was to have it welded in order to continue the trip. When the rim was taken to the repair shop, three more cracks were discovered on the rim inner surface. None of these three cracks have not gone through the rim wall yet. All crack were on the shoulder opposite the spoke side which cantilevers towards the center of the car. Welded cracks are shown in Picture3 through Picture6. Picture 3 shows the weldment of the crack that went through the rim wall. This cracks developed during normal driving conditions and were not the result of impacts. They could have resulted in a catastrophic failure that might have resulted in loss of control of the car and a potentially serious accident. I had the welded rim replaced by a new one at the Mercedes Benz Service Center in Ontario, CA. The service center retained the welded rim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class reliable compared to competitors?

The 2021 CLS-Class is reliable due to its impressive build quality and lack of recalls or major defects. In contrast to many competitors that face ongoing safety recalls, this model offers drivers confidence in their investment without worrying about potential roadside issues.

How does the safety rating of the 2021 CLS-Class compare within its class?

With no recalls recorded and only a single complaint, the CLS-Class holds an exceptional safety rating compared to other luxury sedans. This positions it favorably within its class, emphasizing Mercedes-Benz's commitment to industry-leading safety standards.

πŸ“ŠYear-over-Year Context

➑️Stable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

🧭What This Means for You

This clean safety profile is particularly valuable for risk-averse buyers and families prioritizing reliability.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

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If You Own This Vehicle

  • Your 2021 CLS-Class currently shows zero open recalls. Maintain this status with scheduled preventive maintenance.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in MERCEDES-BENZ's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
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If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
  • This specific CLS-Class year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.