Mercedes-Benz Recalls 116,020 SUVs Due to Fire Risk
Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall covering 116,020 SUVs across several models, including vehicles by Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach. The recall covers an issue with a 48-volt ground connection under the passenger seat, which left unattended, could result in a fire. Vehicles affected, all within model years between 2019 and 2024, include the Mercedes-Benz GLE350, GLE450, and GLE580; GLS450 and GLS580; Mercedes-AMG GLE53 SUV and coupe and GLE 63S; the Mercedes-AMG GLS63; and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600.
Introduction:
Mercedes-Benz has recently announced a recall of 116,020 SUVs due to a potential fire risk. This recall affects several models, including vehicles from Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach. The issue stems from a faulty 48-volt ground connection under the passenger seat, which, if not addressed, could lead to a fire in the vehicles. In this article, we will delve into the details of this recall and explore what owners of these SUVs need to know.
**The Recall Details**
Mercedes-Benz is ordering a recall of 116,020 SUVs from several models, among which are vehicles produced by Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall is to fix an issue relating to a 48-volt ground system located under the front passenger seat. Vehicles covered by the recall include the 2021–2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE53 and GLE63, 2021–2023 GLS63, 2023–2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, 2020–2024 GLE450, 2020–2023 GLE580, 2019–2023 GLS450, 2020–2023 GLS580, and the 2021–2023 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600.
**Fire Risk and Potential Hazards**
The NHTSA documents explain that the ground on affected models may become loose under the passenger seat during production, which could lead to the ground connection overheating. In turn, the overheating connection may result in a fire. Of the vehicles involved in the recall, Mercedes estimates that 100 percent are potentially affected by the loose connection. The recall documents also state that due to the nature of the issue, drivers will not be warned by their vehicle unless the connection has already come loose; in which case, the vehicle may display a warning message in the instrument cluster relating to the 48-volt power supply.
**Resolution Process**
Dealers will inspect and tighten the ground connection as necessary, free of charge, and vehicles from the same model year but outside of the recall population are already bolted to production specifications. Dealers will be notified of the recall on March 22, while owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by May 14. In the meantime, owners can check the NHTSA recalls website to see if their vehicle is affected.
**About the Author**
Jack Fitzgerald, an auto enthusiast with a passion for Formula 1, turned his love for cars into a career in auto writing. Starting as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, Jack eventually landed his dream job at Car and Driver, where he continues to pursue his love for cars. His goal now is to extend the life of his beloved 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz’s recall of 116,020 SUVs due to a potential fire risk is a serious issue that owners need to address promptly. By understanding the details of the recall and following the resolution process outlined by the manufacturer, owners can ensure the safety of their vehicles and prevent any potential hazards. It is crucial for owners of the affected models to take action and have their vehicles inspected and repaired as necessary to address the faulty ground connection and mitigate the risk of a fire.