Massive Recall Alert: Mercedes EQE and EQS in Serious Trouble
In a sweeping move, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a colossal recall for Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles, specifically targeting the EQE, EQS, EQE SUV, and EQS SUV models. This concerns a whopping 14,912 vehicles affected by a troubling issue with the battery management system, potentially leading to catastrophic power loss.
A Lingering Issue
This isn't merely a footnote in the annals of automotive recalls; it's the 12th recall that Mercedes models have faced in the U.S. alone during the first five months of 2024. The core of the problem resides in the battery management system software. When this software malfunctions, it can cause the high-voltage battery to shut down suddenly, and consequently, the vehicle could lose all drive power while in motion. Such failures are dangerous and pose critical safety risks.
Recurring Nightmares
Dishearteningly, this issue isn't new for Mercedes-Benz. It first surfaced a year ago, affecting 24,873 vehicles globally. Of those, 3,699 units were flagged in Germany and a substantial 8,281 units in the U.S. Models bearing the brunt of this flaw included the 2022-2023 Mercedes EQS 450, AMG EQS, EQS 580, and the 2023 AMG EQE. The models subjected to this latest recall list are extensive:
- MERCEDES-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC/2024
- MERCEDES-AMG EQE SUV 53 4MATIC/2024-2025
- MERCEDES-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC/2024
- MERCEDES EQE 350 4MATIC/2024
- MERCEDES EQE 350+/2024
- MERCEDES EQE 500/2024
- MERCEDES EQE SUV 350 4MATIC/2023-2025
- MERCEDES EQE SUV 350+/2023-2025
- MERCEDES EQE SUV 500 4MATIC/2023-2025
- MERCEDES EQS 450/2024
- MERCEDES EQS 450+/2024
- MERCEDES EQS 580/2024
- MERCEDES EQS SUV 450 4MATIC/2023-2025
- MERCEDES EQS SUV 450+/2023-2025
- MERCEDES EQS SUV 580 4MATIC/2023-2025
- MERCEDES-MAYBACH EQS SUV 680 4MATIC/2024-2025
Sigh of Relief
Fortunately, despite the grim outlook, no accidents or injuries have been attributed to this software glitch in either Germany or the U.S. These affected models roll off production lines in Sindelfingen and Bremen in Europe and Tuscaloosa in the U.S.
Half Measures and Next Steps
Mercedes-Benz had previously conducted a recall to install updated software—a task estimated to take 45 to 90 minutes. Unfortunately, this temporary fix did not resolve the underlying issue. The problem lies deeper, in the high-voltage battery control module which could be overwhelmed by the diagnostic volume demanded by other control units. When this happens, the software might reset the battery control module, leading to reduced power or complete shutdown. Although these vehicles can be restarted after a full stop, the risk of an accident remains high.
In a proactive measure, Mercedes confirmed the problem has been rectified in newly manufactured vehicles since May 13, 2024. Instructions for dealerships to install fresh software will commence on June 3, 2024, and affected owners will get notifications from NHTSA by July 23, 2024.
Ripples Across the Market
This recurring issue has not boded well for the sales figures of EQE and EQS models which lag behind Mercedes' expectations. In light of these ongoing problems, the automaker has chosen to discontinue the development of the MB.EA Large platform earmarked for the next-generation EQS/EQS SUV, citing unsatisfactory sales of the current EQS. Instead, Mercedes-Benz will focus on upgrading the EVA II platform to a higher voltage 800V technology for upcoming models.
The EQE seems to face an uncertain future, with no new successor in sight. Instead, Mercedes-Benz aims to pivot toward developing new electric models, specifically, the Mercedes C-Class EV and Mercedes GLC EV, which will ride on the fresh MB.EA medium platform.