Mercedes has recalled more than 12,300 Mercedes-Benz models due to a faulty front seat position switch. A faulty electrical contact within the switch might prevent driver and passenger seat belt force limiters and airbags from activating correctly during an accident. Mercedes-Benz began an investigation in 2020 based on a report from a supplier about seat and airbag problems.

Doubling up with customer complaints, the auto manufacturer saw it important to recall the Mercedes-Benz models affected. According to Consumer Reports, the faulty models don’t comply with the requirements of the FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) no. 208, “Occupant Crash Protection,” according to the NHTSA.

If the seat belt doesn’t fully retract due to the faulty switch, the occupant might find it hard and an inconvenience to wear it, which increases the risk of injury in the event of a car crash.

The faulty front seat switches 

As noted by Car Complaints, the seat position switch signal does not function properly or is totally missing. This prevents the airbag limiter and the seat retraction and activation system from functioning as per the manufacturer’s specifications.  

According to Cars.com, the models affected include the 2021 E350, E450, E450 Wagon, and E63S AMG. The well-acclaimed auto manufacturer is also recalling the 2020 E63S AMG Wagon and the 2020-2021 E53 AMG models. In these models, the passenger seat limiter is positioned too close to the airbag. This may prevent the airbag from activating correctly. 

Mercedes-Benz is also recalling some 2021 C-Class, GLC, CLS, Convertible, and G-Class vehicles. Customers who want to know whether their vehicles are affected can check the Mercedes-Benz USA. In these models, a faulty electrical component within the seat position switch can disrupt the normal deployment of driver and passenger airbags during a crash. 

Previous Mercedes-Benz recalls

This won’t be the first time that Mercedes-Benz recalls some of its models. In the most recent recall, some Benz models a potential communication software failure. The software design might fail to communicate the vehicle’s correct location for the eCall system during a crash. This might result in the first aid responders going to the wrong location, increasing the risk of further injury after a crash.

As Car Complaints puts it, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models were recalled due to a cluster issue. Some of the cars couldn’t adjust the multifunctional display in the instrument cluster. The vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 101, “Control and Displays,” and the display might appear too bright, hindering the driver’s vision and increasing the risk of crashing.

Moreover, the 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz and Freightliner Sprinters were recalled due to a fuel line problem. The fuel line clamps could loosen, leading to a fuel leak that can increase fire risk.

The latest recall for Mercedes-Benz

In December 2020, a supplier filed a report concerning the possible production problems. The supplier that a batch of seat position switches might have problems with the solder. Mercedes-Benz launched investigations to look into the matter.

In some cars, the seat position switch signal was missing or incorrect, resulting in the seat belt force limiter and airbags fail to activate when needed. The recall is set to begin on May 31, 2021. Owners of these models are to return the cars to the dealership to replace the seat position switches.

What owners can do

Mercedes-Benz will notify owners and dealers of the problem and replace the seat position switches for free. If you think your car might have that problem, you can contact Mercedes customer service for more information or check if your car has a recall on MBUSA. You can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline or visit SafeCar.gov.