Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for almost 20,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to potential electrical short circuits and fire risks stemming from previous faulty repairs. The recall affects several models, including the AMG GT43 and AMG E53, initially recalled in August 2022 for the same issue.
Mercedes-Benz said the transmission wiring harness connection may not have been correctly fixed during the 2022 recall, potentially exposing the electrical connectors to corrosion, leading to short circuits.
According to Mercedes-Benz, "In this case, water might enter the connector, over time, and result in a short circuit. The short circuit might lead to thermal overload of the connector when the vehicle is parked. Subsequently, the risk of fire cannot be ruled out."
Drivers might become aware of the issue if they notice the yellow battery indicator light illuminating or a “4MATIC malfunction” warning message on the instrument cluster.
In addition to the nearly 20,000 vehicles recalled in the U.S., approximately 2,700 units are also affected in Canada. The recall includes the following models:
2021-2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT43
2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53
2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz E53 Coupe
2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz E53 Cabriolet
2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT53
2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS53
Mercedes-Benz has advised all owners of the affected vehicles to have the new repairs performed. Dealers will replace the two-part wiring harnesses and connectors once recall letters are mailed out Aug. 13. For further information, owners can contact Mercedes-Benz at 877-496-3691.
Owners of any vehicle can check for open recalls using their vehicle's VIN or license plate number at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
