CarRecallWatch- Component
- STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Problem
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, EClass Coupe/Convertible, CLS, AMG GT 4-doors Coupe, and EQS vehicles with a heated leather steering wheel. Due to a software error in the hand detection control unit, the hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel when using the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system.
- Risk
- Deactivated hands-off detection will prevent DISTRONIC system features from functioning, including warnings to grab the steering wheel and calling first responders as part of the Active Emergency Stop Assist, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040010.
- Notes
- Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
What this recall means for you
A software error in the hand detection control unit can keep the hands-off detection from recognizing when the driver's hands are off the steering wheel while the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system is in use. When that detection is deactivated, DISTRONIC features do not work as intended, including warnings to grab the steering wheel and the Active Emergency Stop Assist function that calls first responders. This can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
The affected vehicles are certain 2021 and 2022 Mercedes-Benz models with a heated leather steering wheel, including several AMG, E-Class, S-Class, CLS and EQS variants. Owners do not need to stop driving, but they should keep their hands on the wheel and pay close attention to the road while the system is active.
Authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Check your vehicle identification number for open recalls and, for questions, contact Mercedes-Benz USA customer service at 1-800-367-6372 (recall number 2022040010).
Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle