Mercedes-Benz has begun a voluntary recall of more than 300,000 vehicles due to locking problems. According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects older SUVs that have been manufactured since 2011.
Specifically, the affected units are 323,963 units of the third-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W166), which was later renamed the GLE-Class in its 2015 model year, and the GLE Coupe (C292). Identified through production records, the affected vehicles were manufactured as early as July 1, 2011. Production of the affected units ended on November 25, 2019.
NHTSA documents noted that the problem lies with water that could leak into the rear of the affected vehicles. These have been recorded in customer complaints filed as far back as 2018 outside the US market.
Mercedes-Benz investigated this issue several years ago and conducted analyzes of the potential dangers of water accumulating in the spare wheel well. The company concluded that the problem could lead to a malfunction of the said fuel pump and interruption of the fuel supply to the engine, which could then lead to the engine stalling without warning.
Although the documents did not state that a stalling problem has already occurred with customers, Mercedes-Benz initiated a voluntary recall as a precaution against this problem.
Dealers will inspect affected vehicles for any water intrusion into the spare wheel well, as well as replace the fuel pump control unit if deemed necessary. A drain plug will also be fitted in the spare wheel wells.