A recall campaign has been started by Mercedes to repair 59,574 cars produced between 2018 and 2022. The problem exists in certain GLS SUVs that have third-row seats. These seats may not lock into place during an accident, presenting a danger to passengers.

The automaker's recall affects 51,998 model year 2020-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS450s made between September 18, 2018, and July 4, 2022; 5,212 model year 2020-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS580s made between September 18, 2018, and July 4, 2022; and 2,364 model year 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS63s made between September 18, 2018, and July 14, 2022. This recall affects 100 percent of the vehicles included.

The problem was first identified in February 2022 when Mercedes' supplier, Brose North America, told the company about a possible issue. It advised the German firm that it may have installed or improperly positioned the springs in some third-row seats' locking mechanisms.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The sub-supplier eliminated this production deviation by introducing an automated process in March 2022. What's more, an additional test step was introduced to confirm proper spring installation with the help of laser and camera controls.

In April, Mercedes investigated the issue and its possible consequences. It found that the troublesome spring could result in the failure of the seatback lock in the event of a crash. If the seat collapses in a crash, it could increase the risk of an injury. Although Mercedes has not received any reports of complaints or injuries, there is no easy way for an owner to check if their seat is part of the recall.

Vehicles built during that period will get a new seatback where necessary, to ensure that the unit works properly. Owners can expect to start being contacted by Mercedes on November 29.

Source: Autoevolution

Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
15 years driving