Last updated: 2026-03-27

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS
RELIABILITY SCORE: 52/100 (MIXED)

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Reliability Report

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS scores 52/100 ("Mixed"). With 8 recalls and 61 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Recalls

8

Complaints

61

Complaint Rate

68.8

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$908

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity45/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact60/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity80/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (11)
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2023 is year 2 of the First generation (V297).

  • Redesigned for the 2022 model year.
  • A refresh arrives in 2024.
  • 1st generation EQS (US).

What this means for buyers

Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.

If you're comparing prices, check 2022 (redesign year) vs 2023+ pricing and recalls.

2022: First generation (V297) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is year 2 of the First generation (V297).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS scores 52/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. 2023 is year 2 of the First generation (V297).

With 61 owner complaints and 8 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in electrical system (16) — can be costly to repair.

An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on electrical system (16) is essential before committing.

Compared to the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS, which scored 9 points higher. See also the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Not a first-year model

Cons

  • Below-average reliability score
  • Above-average recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Charging faults, unexpected shutdowns, and software malfunctions (16 complaints)
  • 1 fire incident reported in owner complaints

Compare 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 8 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16)
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

8

recalls on record

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS has 8 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

68.8

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 15.2

LowAvgHigh
High

Safety Incidents

5

Crashes

1

Fires

18

Injuries

0

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Recall Details

8 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V3660002025-06-05

BACK OVER PREVENTION

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022-2025 S-Class, EQE SUV, EQE, EQS SUV and EQS vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. Software in the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) may cause an incorrect external pedestrian warning sound while reversing. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid Electric Vehicles."

Consequence

A vehicle that makes an incorrect sound may fail to alert pedestrians of a reversing vehicle, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the AVAS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 1, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025070005.

25V2550002025-05-12

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, GLC, EQE SUV, EQE, EQS SUV, and EQS vehicles that were incorrectly repaired under recall 24V-115. An incorrect fuse box that was not designed for the vehicle may have been installed.

Consequence

An incorrect fuse box can result in a sudden loss of drive power or a loss of critical safety functions such as the restraint systems or instrument cluster, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Additionally, there could be an increased risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the main fuse boxes, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025050003/4.

24V9600002024-12-20

AIR BAGS

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling a certain 2023 EQS 450+ vehicle. The mounting brackets near the roof may have sharp edges that can damage the side-curtain air bag during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection," and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

Consequence

An air bag that is damaged during deployment can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the window airbags, and mounting brackets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025010005.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mercedes-Benz EQS Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$908

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Carrier Bearing Replacement$623 – $894
Stabilizer Bar Link Kit Replacement$182 – $246
Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement$743 – $939
Washer Fluid Level Sensor Replacement$258 – $372
Active Suspension Air Spring Replacement$2,990 – $3,403
Radiator Fan Assembly Replacement$1,474 – $1,603
Liftgate Pulldown Motor Replacement$859 – $911
Coolant Reservoir Replacement$437 – $501
Power Seat Motor Replacement$1,501 – $1,587
Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis$198 – $291

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS.

  • Test for phantom braking by driving at various speeds and conditions

  • Inspect sunroof for cracks or signs of stress

  • Check charging port for signs of melting or damage

  • Verify all software updates are current, especially for collision avoidance

  • Ensure the vehicle includes a spare tire or run-flat tires

Buying a 2023 EQS? Check Its History First

Every 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Common Problems by Component

61 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

16
12
11
10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12)SERVICE BRAKES (11)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10)STRUCTURE (3)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)POWER TRAIN (1)WHEELS (1)Other (5)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

16 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several recurring electrical issues with the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS, primarily involving charging faults, unexpected shutdowns, and software malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention charging errors, including thermal events at charging interfaces and signs of melting at the charging port, with one instance resulting in a fire. Multiple owners describe sudden vehicle shutdowns accompanied by battery malfunction warnings, sometimes leading to complete immobilization and entrapment of occupants. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with some reports indicating problems as early as 16,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of unintended braking, abrupt stops, and one noted injury due to sudden deceleration, posing risks of collisions and entrapment.

16 complaints total1 fire1 injury

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

12 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS frequently report issues with the vehicle's sunroof glass spontaneously shattering, often described as a loud explosion followed by shattered glass. Additionally, several complaints highlight instances of phantom braking, where the car suddenly stops without obstacles present, leading to potential safety risks such as loss of control and crash incidents. Some owners also mention problems with the door handles retracting unexpectedly and issues with audio and communication systems. These problems are reported across various mileage ranges, often shortly after purchase, and can result in significant safety implications, including a crash and injuries.

12 complaints total1 crash3 injuries

SERVICE BRAKES

11 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS frequently report issues with sudden, unintended braking, often described as "phantom braking," where the vehicle abruptly stops without any apparent obstacle or warning. These incidents are noted both on highways and city streets, with speeds ranging from 5 to 60 mph, and often result in a violent stop that can cause injuries, including whiplash. Complaints also highlight instances of brake failure, where the vehicle fails to stop as expected, sometimes leading to crashes, with two reports involving injuries. The issues typically occur at low mileages, with one report noting problems as early as 1,000 miles. These braking malfunctions can pose significant safety risks, including the potential for rear-end collisions or loss of control, which prospective buyers should consider.

11 complaints total2 crashes4 injuries
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

10 complaints

Owners report frequent issues with the forward collision avoidance system in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS, primarily involving unexpected and abrupt braking, often referred to as "phantom braking." Complaints frequently mention the system engaging without any apparent obstacles or vehicles nearby, leading to sudden stops and seat belt tightening. This issue is noted across various driving conditions, including at highway speeds and during low-speed maneuvers, with occurrences reported as early as 200 miles. Safety implications are highlighted, with one injury reported and several near-miss incidents of potential rear-end collisions. These problems persist despite dealership visits and software updates, suggesting a pattern of unresolved system malfunctions.

10 complaints total1 injury
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)

STRUCTURE

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS report issues related to the vehicle's structure, with specific concerns about the panoramic sunroof and front bumper. One owner describes the sunroof shattering unexpectedly while driving at high speed, with no apparent external impact. Another owner reports damage to the front plastic grill and camera from minor impacts to the front bumper, suggesting potential vulnerability in these components. Additionally, a concern is noted about the absence of a hood latch safety release, which could pose a safety risk if the primary latch fails. These issues are reported at various times, with no specific mileage range indicated.

3 complaints total1 crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS report issues with the vehicle's speed control, particularly involving abrupt stops and failures in automatic emergency braking. One complaint details a crash with five injuries due to the automatic emergency braking system not engaging. Another owner describes multiple instances where the car unexpectedly stops or slows down without any apparent obstacles, both locally and on the highway, with no resolution from the dealership or corporate after reporting the issue. These complaints highlight potential safety risks, including crashes and sudden loss of vehicle control.

2 complaints total1 crash5 injuries
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2026-01-15

I am reporting a serious safety issue with my 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. On multiple occasions, the vehicle has suddenly lost power and completely stopped while driving on the freeway without warning. During these incidents, a red warning symbol appeared on the dashboard (a red turtle icon), indicating a critical malfunction. These failures created extremely dangerous situations, as the vehicle lost the ability to maintain normal driving speed in active freeway traffic. At the time of these incidents, my three children were in the vehicle, which significantly increased the risk of a serious accident. This issue has occurred multiple times, suggesting a serious and recurring defect. The sudden loss of power combined with dashboard warning signals presents a major safety hazard and could lead to severe injury or fatal accidents. I no longer feel safe operating this vehicle and request that this issue be investigated as a potential safety defect.

WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint
2025-11-08

I am submitting this complaint to raise a serious safety concern regarding the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 SUV. This vehicle is sold and delivered without a spare tire and without run-flat tires. This design choice is dangerous and creates a foreseeable risk of severe harm to motorists. Recently, my wife and I — both senior citizens — suffered a tire failure in a remote area with no cellular service. Because the EQS 580 SUV was equipped with neither a spare nor run-flat tires, we were completely stranded. We were forced to walk miles to find a cell signal to call for help. This was a frightening and potentially life-threatening situation. It is entirely foreseeable that tire failure may occur in remote areas or where cell service is unavailable. A modern vehicle sold in the United States should not leave occupants with no means of mobility or self-rescue in such a situation. This issue poses a heightened danger particularly to: Senior citizens Families with small children Physically disabled individuals Anyone traveling in rural or emergency-prone environments A flat tire in these circumstances can result in individuals being stranded, exposed to the elements, injured, or worse. Someone could easily die in such a situation. In addition, Mercedes-Benz did not disclose at the point of sale that the vehicle lacks both a spare and run-flat tires. Had we been informed, we would not have purchased this vehicle. The manufacturer and dealer have a duty to warn consumers of a safety-critical limitation that eliminates an essential emergency capability. To my knowledge, it is unheard of — for a modern SUV, especially a premium vehicle marketed for safety and long-distance comfort, to be delivered without any means of addressing a tire failure. This is a serious consumer safety issue, and I respectfully urge NHTSA to investigate. A requirement for either a spare tire, run-flats, or clear disclosure at the point of sale is essential to protect the driving public.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint
2025-06-13

Emergency braking system and violent seat belt retraction activated in error with no other vehicle in front of on my car . As I have vertigo and a pacemaker the seat belt retraction snapped my head forward in tightening my body but not my head resulting in severe head movement causing extreme dizziness. Also the rapid seat belt retraction place strong pressure on my pacemaker

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint
2024-03-024 injuries

I am writing to formally document and express serious concern regarding a lighting issue with my Mercedes-Benz EQS, which presents a significant safety hazard for both me and my family. Since December 2024, I have been facing a recurring problem with a dark shadow or image that appears while driving, particularly noticeable after dark. This shadow often resembles the shape of a person and unexpectedly enlarges or shifts, creating an alarming visual that demands immediate attention while driving. On numerous occasions, I have instinctively applied the brakes suddenly, believing that someone was standing in front of the vehicle, only to realize it was a visual distortion. This is not only disturbing but also dangerous, especially when driving at higher speeds or in traffic. Due to this ongoing issue, I have been unable to use the vehicle for commuting to work and have avoided driving it during family outings after dark. It has affected my daily routine, my family’s comfort, and our overall trust in the vehicle's safety. In the past few months, I have visited multiple authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships—including San Jose, Stevens Creek, and Fremont—all of which confirmed the presence of the shadow issue. I have also shared the concern with a Mercedes Product Manager, and the email correspondence is attached for reference. Despite their acknowledgment of the issue, all parties have stated that this visual distortion is "as per design" and that they are unable to offer a solution. I was further informed that this issue exists across all Mercedes-Benz EQS vehicles, and therefore, nothing can be done. This is unacceptable. A known design flaw that causes visual confusion and repeated panic braking should not be dismissed. The fact that multiple dealers acknowledge the problem but claim it cannot be fixed raises serious questions about product safety and accountability. Mercedez is not helping at all This is a clear safety defect and needs to be addressed seriously.

When Do 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

200–8,000 milesPhantom braking
16,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz EQS Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Mercedes-Benz EQS Years to Buy

The best Mercedes-Benz EQS year is 2024 with a reliability score of 61/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (52/100) and 2022 (44/100).

Top Pick
61
Good

2024

4Recalls
6Complaints
52
Mixed

2023

(Current Model)

8Recalls
61Complaints
44
Mixed

2022

14Recalls
45Complaints

Mercedes-Benz EQS Years to Avoid

The worst Mercedes-Benz EQS year is 2022 with a score of 44/100, primarily due to service brakes (11) issues.

Mercedes-Benz EQS Reliability Score Trend

Mercedes-Benz EQS reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 57/100 compared to 44/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Mercedes-Benz EQS reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202244/100Mixed
202352/100Mixed
202461/100Good

Mercedes-Benz EQS Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202461/100+9Good46
2023(selected)52/100+8Mixed861
202244/100Mixed1445

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS Common Questions

10 questions from 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS owners.

No crank no start

My car was running fine until it got down to freezing point outside and then I went out to start the next day and my dash lights came on and my windows work but I have to jump the starter relay to start the car but it won’t shift outta 1st gear and my brake lights are staying on until I turn the ignition switch off but everything was fine b for the battery went dead and I changed the starter relay and still no crank no start….. Jumping the relay for the starter starts it but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month

Mar 26, 2026

Tumping Noise back right side

When driving slow and coming to a stop, my car make tumping noises, but when you drive at normal speed, it drives like a baby

VisitorMar 26, 2026

New battery

My car won’t start when i turn the key over it don’t do nothing don’t make a sound but if i jump the starter relay with the car in the on position it’ll start but then when u drive it it won’t shift outta 1st gear my break lights stay on until i turn the car off all my dash lights come on like there supposed to and i got a check engine light on a abs lights stay comes on a bsa or something like that light comes on my srs light comes on and none of them turn off until i turn the key off all my windows work radio works seat memory still works and i haven’t had a battery on it in about a month a good one I’ve tried a couple diferent ones on it and none of the had enough juice to do anything but turn ones on it my dash lights and then it would die out i even tried jump starting the batterys but it still wouldn’t start the car the only way i can start it is by jumping the starter relay and i never had any of these problems until i changed the battery ooooo and my key fob isn’t working right When i jump start the starter relay makes it better but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month

VisitorMar 20, 2026

Seat belt

Seat belt indicator won’t go off

VisitorMar 14, 2026

Convertible top frame

When putting the Convertible Top down the left side frame doesn’t go in the boot far enough for the boot cover to close when we bring the top back up. It works correctly. It worked fine one day and stopped the next when you put a little pressure on the frame to see if it will go down it’s stiff. It won’t budge. A few days

Mar 13, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS reliable?
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS has a "Mixed" reliability rating (52/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 8 recalls and 61 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (11 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10 complaints), STRUCTURE (3 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS have?
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS has 8 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS may have above-average maintenance costs. Its reliability score of 52/100 and 61 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely.

Don’t buy a 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue