Mercedes-Benz Recalls 254,000 Cars, Vans, and SUVs to Fix Emergency Call Function
A software problem may prevent these vehicles from calling emergency services after a crash
By Keith Barry
Mercedes-Benz is recalling over 254,000 cars, SUVs, and vans because their automatic crash notification systems might not work. Included in the recall are CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles from the 2017 through 2022 model years, and Freightliner Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Metris, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans from the 2019 through 2021 model years.
The automaker told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it is aware of 191 complaints related to this issue but says there have been no reports of crashes, injuries, or property damage.
Mercedes will automatically issue an over-the-air (OTA) software update to fix the problem. If this update fails, owners can bring their vehicles to a Mercedes-Benz dealer for a free software update.
OTA updates are becoming more common as new vehicles increasingly feature built-in wireless connections. In addition to Mercedes-Benz, Tesla and GM have previously used over-the-air updates to address product recalls as well.
The Details
Vehicles Recalled
• 2017-2022 A-Class, C-Class, CLA-Class, CLS-Class, E-Class, and S-Class sedans and E-Class wagons
• 2017-2022 AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, SLC-Class, and SL Class coupes
• 2017-2022 G-Class, GLA-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, GLE-Class, and GLS-Class SUVs
• 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Metris, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans
The problem: The SIM cards installed in the affected vehicles have faulty software that can prevent them from making a connection.
The fix: Mercedes-Benz will provide a free software update—either over the air or during a visit to a dealership.
How to contact the manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz will contact owners by mail starting in mid-June. Owners of cars and vans may also contact the automaker at 800-367-6372. Van owners can call 877-762-8267.
NHTSA campaign number: Cars and SUVs were recalled as part of campaign number 22V365. Vans were recalled as part of campaign number 22V360.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.
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