Montvale, N.J. – Mar. 8, 2017 – Mercedes Benz USA has recalled almost 6,000 vehicles with defective interior console latches, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall affects a number of sport utility models produced between July and October of last year, including:

 

 

 

• GLE 400 4Matic
• GLE 350 and 350 4Matic
• GLE 550E 4Matic
• GLE 63 AMG, 63S AMG and 63S AMG 4Matic Coupe
• GLE 43 AMG 4Matic Coupe
• GLS 450 4Matic
• GLS 550 4matic
• GLS 63 AMG 4Matic

The Defect

Affected models are equipped with defective center-console door latches. Consequently, items stored in this space may escape during traffic accidents. This has the potential to harm motorists involved in crashes. As yet, there have been no injuries reported due to this defect.

Timeline of Events

In July 2016 engineers for Daimler AMG, Mercedes’ parent company, discovered the defect during certification tests. One month later, the German automaker discovered that the OEM parts supplier Inteva Products Europe had instituted fabrication changes during production and failed to notify its partners, including Daimler AG. The defective parts were immediately removed from circulation.

Over the following months, engineers assessed the potential impacts of the defect and compared their performance to internal quality assurance codes. Daimler AMG officials deemed the parts non-compliant in late 2016. In February, the car manufacturing company confirmed its non-compliance with local and international safety regulations and initiated an official recall.

The Solution

Daimler AMG has instructed dealers to replace defective center console latches free of charge, according to a recall acknowledgment filed with NHTSA. Currently, the recall is in its voluntary stages, meaning owners with affected vehicles should come forward and request replacement latches. The automaker may launch a more exhaustive campaign should few owners react to the voluntary announcement.