Recall Alert: Massive 2019-2020 Mercedes SUV Electrical Problems
This recall should have happened sooner were it not for the coronavirus. The pandemic postponed this voluntary recall by Mercedes but now it has been issued. The massive recall involves thousands of Mercedes SUVs with electrical problems.
A total of almost 13,000 GLE-Class and GLS-Class Mercedes SUVs are involved
At issue is the optional illuminated Mercedes-Benz star logo emblazoned in the grille. A total of almost 13,000 GLE-Class and GLS-Class SUVs are involved. They were built between December 8, 2018, and February 2, 2020. Had owners not chosen the obnoxious option their GLE or GLS would not be involved in this recall.
The gaudy star logo’s electrical ground may not be grounding the unit. There are other electrical components that use the same ground causing them to malfunction. As all electrical components communicate with each other any component not responding affects the entire electrical system.
Components affected are the power steering, windshield wiper, and left headlight
Components affected include the power steering control unit, windshield wiper motor, and the left headlight. Dealer technicians will have to relocate the ground point and then apply the component connections to the new ground. It’s a general rule that if you’re building or restoring an automobile make sure your grounds are solid. Bad grounds can lead to a lot of electrical gremlins that take lots of time to find for such a simple fix.
Of the two models, the GLE-Class has the most units recalled at 9,642 GLE350, GLE 450, and GLE580-all from 2020. There are 3.157 GLS-Class models also affected. Mercedes had been notified last year and an investigation ensued. Personnel furloughs delayed implementing the recall. According to the NHTSA, no accidents have been reported.
This recall affects the 2019-2020 GLE- and 2020 GLS-Class models
This affects the fourth-gen GLE-Class SUVs which debuted in 2018 as 2019 models. The third-gen GLS-Class SUVs were all-new this year. So this recall affects the latest GLE- and GLS-Class models. Earlier versions of these models are not affected.
Mercedes dealers have been notified and owners will start being notified soon. Scheduled fixes will begin by December 8, 2020. The ground relocation will be performed free of charge. If you are concerned or have questions about your GLE or GLS SUV you can contact your local dealer or Mercedes-Benz USA customer service.
