Manufactured at MBUSI in Alabama, both the mid-size GLE and full-size GLS have been subjected to a recall due to an improperly secured 48-volt ground connection beneath the front passenger seat. A total of 116,020 vehicles designated for the US market are affected, ranging from the Benz-branded GLE 350 to the opulent Maybach GLS 600.
Mercedes-Benz AG commenced investigations into the reported issue in June 2022 following numerous field reports of battery-related warnings. Initial findings suggested that an inadequately tightened ground cable connection for the 48-volt system contributed to these warnings.
Consequently, Mercedes-Benz initiated two rework campaigns at the assembly plant, first in July 2022 and subsequently in September 2022.
Despite these efforts, escalating field reports between October 2022 and April 2023 prompted further internal reviews of the ground connection’s assembly process. Unfortunately, the root cause remained elusive.
Extensive investigations continued through January 2024, leading to the hypothesis that mechanical rework operations near the ground connection may have contributed to the issue. As a precaution, Mercedes-Benz introduced additional gauges for bolting the ground connection starting January 2023 to prevent recurrence.
The affected SUVs, produced between June 20, 2017, and January 5, 2023, for model years 2020 through 2024, are included in the safety recall identified as 24V-207 by the NHTSA. A loose ground cable lug may result in increased electrical resistance, potentially causing overheating of the ground connection. Mercedes-Benz’s safety assessments have highlighted the risk of fire associated with this issue.
Authorized retailers have been instructed by Mercedes-Benz USA to inspect the bolting of the ground connection. Affected components listed in documents published by the federal watchdog include part number A0029906850 for the hexagon nut/flange and A0009915303 for the flange. GLE and GLS owners can anticipate receiving notification letters via mail by May 14, 2024.
The GLE, underpinned by a rear-biased platform, holds the distinction of being Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling vehicle in the United States of America. Last year alone, a total of 57,696 units were sold, compared to 24,056 units of the GLS.
Both models come standard with 4MATIC Permanent AWD, with higher-performance variants utilizing AMG Performance 4MATIC Permanent AWD. The GLE lineup starts at $62,650 before destination charges for the base 350 variant, while the GLS lineup starts at $87,000 for the base model, with the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 commanding a starting price of $174,350 for MY24.