Almost 20,000 Mercedes-Benz CLS and E-Class models have been recalled in the United States.
An investigation from the car manufacturer has revealed that the 12-volt battery could move in the spare wheel well in the event of a crash. If this were to occur, the electrical connections from the battery could be dislodged, meaning important post-crash functions such as eCall, electric seat adjustment, hazard warning lights, and automatic door unlocking may not function.
A defect report issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that a deviation in the development process means the 12-volt battery mount might not withstand certain mechanical loading in the event of a crash.
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Involved in the recall are a total of 9,741 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Coupe models from the 2019-2022 model years, 2,096 AMG CLS 53 Coupe models from 2019-2021, 3,428 examples of the E 450 from 2021-2022, and 4,433 examples of the 2019-2022 Mercedes-AMG E 53. All affected models were produced between January 8, 2018 and August 23, 2022.
Mercedes-Benz started investigating the issue in early 2021 when an internal standard crash test saw the 12-volt battery move. While it was not able to replicate the same result in subsequent tests, the automaker developed an improved battery mount to provide additional protection and on September 23, 2022, decided to conduct a recall.
Owners of impacted vehicles will be notified on or before November 29 and instructed to take their vehicle to a Mercedes-Benz dealer where additional mounting support for the 12-volt battery will be fitted free of charge.
