Table 1 shows one common seats related problems of the 2014 Mercedes Benz GL450.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Front Seat Head Restraint problems |
To the best of my knowledge - certain high end gl model have optional easy third row entry. The second row in such models folds with a touch of a button. However when fully deployed - the second row seat's head rest in such models prevent proper installation of kid's carseat � such that the upper part of the carseat is projected forward. I am 6 feet and can easily put the whole of my forarm behind my kid's carseat after installation. The result is � a very uncomfortable forward positioning of the kid's carseat. My kid has reported neck sprain multiple times. The issue does not resolve with using a booster only (without backrest) or with car's headrest not deployed � as in all situations the car's head rest still pushes my kid's head forward. I believe that it's a potential safety issue as well. This issue has been widely reported online. I guess mercedes took note of it and as per the local dealer - they have fixed it in the newer models (2016 onwards). In order to fix mine - my first plan was to remove the second row headrest (the one on which I install my kid's carseat). Dealer told me that it's not possible - and instead recommended a retrofit. Quote was $1300. Given that it's primarily a manufacturing defect I called mercedes USA - they replied promptly. Basically acknowledged that there is an issue and offered me $350 in service credit, but expected me to shell out the remaining $ 950 out of my pocket. When I told them that it's unfair to do so � as it's primarily a manufacturing defect � the agent basically told me that I should instead be happy that there's a remedy available and that also at my local mercedes dealer. He tried to use my current mileage (62k) as a justification for not picking up the cost - even though this has nothing to do with mileage and my vehicle has an unlimited mileage warranty until 08/2020.