Mercedes recalls nearly 1,000 vehicles over fire risk

The recall covers three models – C300, GLE and GLS imported via official channels in Vietnam. Of these, 126 recalled Mercedes C300 cars were made between May 2021 and May 2022.

The remaining 840 units – GLE 450 4Matic, GLS 450 4Matic, GLS Maybach 480 4Matic and GLS Maybach 600 4Matic – were made between July 2019 and January 2022.

With the C300 model (W206 generation), there is a risk of rain water ingress at the rear trunk. Moisture can thus seep into the signal acquisition and actuation module (SAM module) inside the trunk, the carmaker said.

In this case, short circuits may occur in the control modules and fire risks cannot be completely eliminated. In addition, short circuiting can lead to various other problems, for instance, damage to the taillights. The company has recalled vehicles to fit a waterproof cover over the module that receives the signal and activates it to prevent problems.

The GLE and GLS models are being recalled to repair the trim bar in the triangular window (rear door) because they may not meet specifications due to deviations in the assembly process. As a result, the decorative bars may detach from the vehicle while it is in motion, potentially causing accidents or injuries to other road users.

The recall of the above models is being carried out at Mercedes Vietnam’s authorized dealers system nationwide and repairs are done free of charge. Fixing the error on the C300 takes about 60 minutes and procedures for the remaining lines about half that time. The recall program will run from November 10, 2022 to December 31, 2027.

Mercedes Vietnam has said that it will also provide free error correction support for C300, GLE and GLS models not imported via official channels that are on the global recall list of Mercedes AG.