When Mercedes-Benz recalls some of its classiest vehicles due to an electrical issue, Mercedes-Benz drivers should check to see if they are affected before speeding to conclusions.
Mercedes-Benz in the United States has initiated a recall for a limited number of 2024 Executive Class vehicles as a result of a potential electrical issue that could potentially pose a fire risk. The affected models that are being recalled include E 350 4MATIC, E 450 4MATIC, and E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain, all built on the 214-platform. Vehicle owners need to be in the loop about this situation and ensure that they take the required precautions.
Why is Mercedes-Benz recalling these vehicles?
The reason as to why these Mercedes-Benz vehicles have been recalled is particularly due to improperly secured and untightened bolts of 12-volt and 48-volt ground connections in all the affected vehicles. As stated by Mercedes-Benz USA, certain ground connections may have been insufficiently tightened during the manufacturing process and as such may cause potential electrical resistance. Due to the resistance, the temperature in the area of the ground connections could increase and then the risk of a potential fire cannot be ruled out completely. While there have been no reported incidents thus far, a risk of fire is a cause for concern.
The reason as to why the issue got picked up was solely due to markets outside of the United States. According to an internal investigation performed by Mercedes Benz, the problem could be traced to deviation in the rework process, which was attributed to two workers. Mercedes Benz has since implemented changes to the rework procedure to prevent any further issues in the future.
Who does this recall affect?
Although most Mercedes-Benz drivers in the U.S. will be slightly on edge due to the news of a recall, the recall affects a rather small number of units, approximately 14 units of the 2024 Executive Class models mentioned earlier. All of these vehicles were produced with that potential grounding issue and are currently only in the United States market. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) has not reported any incidents thus far related to this concern; however, precautionary measures are necessary.
This recall follows the news that the German automaker has decided to stop producing and developing fuel cell-powered hydrogen cars.
What MBUSA will do once the recalled vehicles have been brought in?
The process of handling these recalled vehicles entails having an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer checking the potentially affected ground connections and going ahead with the necessary repairs when applicable. MBUSA has further emphasized its mission to keep up with their high-level vehicle quality whilst maintaining customer satisfaction.
Thankfully, this recall is not as huge as the Lexus and Toyota recall that was undertaken to ensure passenger protection.
What are owners expected to do?
Drivers of the affected Mercedes-Benz’ models need to hang tight for now. Mercedes-Benz has stated that they will be notifying all affected owners via mail before June 10, 2025. While hanging tight and awaiting the official notice from the company, owners of the affected vehicles should stay away from selling or leasing their vehicles at least until the necessary repairs have been completed. Dealers have already been alerted as to what ground connections inspection is necessary and how to perform any necessary repairs at no additional charge to the owner.
Mercedes-Benz drivers of the affected vehicle models should contact their local authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer to book an inspection. U.S. Mercedes-Benz drivers can also contact the customer service at 1-800-367-6372 for more information. Additional details pertaining to this recall and any updates will be available on the official Mercedes-Benz USA recall page.
For more information about this recall, check the 25V-240 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association.
