Two recall campaigns announced
Safety concerns have prompted two separate recalls of Mercedes SUVs. The first concerns the transmission in some GLE and GLS models. The second, affecting fewer units, poses the risk of brake pedal failure for 2024 GLE drivers.
The transmission problem affects 2020-2023 model year vehicles equipped with a six-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. In the US, a total of 105,071 vehicles were affected — 32 308 GLE 450 and 72 763 GLS 450.
Mercedes initially became aware of the problem in March 2022, attempting to identify the problem before May 2023 after collecting data from a significant number of vehicles. The complexity of the problem, caused by various factors, was ultimately linked to the SUV's transmission software.
The automaker's investigation found that the problem occurs when the vehicle shifts from seventh to sixth gear. During such a downshift, if the GLE or GLS attempts to abort the shift while the transmission fluid temperature is low and the 48V starter-generator attempts to regenerate, the engine may stall.
The company says it has developed software to prevent vehicles from stalling in such circumstances. Beginning April 16, Mercedes will contact owners and ask them to deliver their GLE and GLS to their nearest dealer, where the new software will be installed free of charge.
The second problem is with the pedal assembly in the 2024 GLE350, GLE450, and AMG GLE53 (both standard and coupe). Only 466 vehicles are affected by the recall, but due to welding problems at the supplier's end, the accelerator and brake pedals may break off.
During the recall campaign, problematic welds will be further strengthened.