Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for 116,020 SUVs built between 2019 and 2024 due to a potential safety risk involving a loose 48-volt ground cable located under the passenger front seat. The issue could lead to overheating and potentially a fire, although there have been no reported incidents of property damage, injuries, or crashes related to this problem. The recall affects various models and trims, including high-performance AMG versions and the Maybach GLS600.
The affected models include the Mercedes-AMG GLE53 and GLE63 S (2021-2024), Mercedes-AMG GLS63 (2021-2023), Mercedes-Benz GLE350 (2023-2024), GLE450 (2020-2024), GLE580 (2020-2023), GLS450 (2019-2023), GLS580 (2020-2023), and the Maybach GLS600 (2021-2023).
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the high-voltage ground connection may not have been correctly tightened during assembly. Investigations found that the connection could loosen due to rework related to the cable or work performed in the cable’s vicinity. With 31 field reports received between August 2022 and late November 2023, Mercedes determined that the loose ground cable poses a potential safety hazard.
Mercedes-Benz has initiated the recall to address the issue, with dealer technicians set to inspect and tighten the ground cable as needed. While the company does not expect any visible warning signs before the cable becomes loose, it advises owners to be cautious and watch for any abnormal heating in the vehicle. Dealer notifications for the recall are scheduled to begin on March 22, with direct owner notifications following in May.
As a precautionary measure, owners of the affected SUV models should contact their nearest Mercedes-Benz dealership to schedule an inspection. It is important to address the issue promptly to avoid any potential risks associated with the loose ground cable. By taking proactive steps, owners can ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicles.
In conclusion, the recent recall issued by Mercedes-Benz underscores the importance of addressing potential safety concerns in vehicles. While the issue with the 48-volt ground cable may seem relatively minor, the risk of overheating and fire is a serious matter that should not be overlooked. By promptly addressing the problem through the recall process, Mercedes-Benz is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers. Owners of the affected SUV models should heed the manufacturer’s advice and take necessary precautions to prevent any potential hazards associated with the loose ground cable.