Mercedes-Benz is recalling around 300 units of the EQB, an electric version of the GLB SUV, due to a problem that could cause them to roll away while parked. The issue is with a faulty weld in the front axle’s electric motor.
The recall, assigned number 24V-331 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), covers 183 units of the 2022 EQB 300 and 100 examples of the 2022 EQB 350, totaling 283 cars. Only the front-wheel-drive EQBs and the gasoline-powered GLBs built between February 18, 2022, and January 23, 2023, are affected.
The problem lies in a welded spur gear within the front axle’s motor. Mercedes-Benz explains that this weld might fail, allowing the gear to rotate freely. Consequently, the crossover might roll away even when the driver has put it in Park. However, using the electronic parking brake should prevent this from happening.
The company states that the weld can break without any warning signs and may result in loud rattling noises while driving. Engineers started investigating the issue in June 2022 after receiving reports from outside the American market. They found that the weld breaks due to excessive material hardness but clarified that it doesn’t affect the EQB’s ability to drive because the rear motor continues to function as normal. While there have been five warranty claims and service reports related to this issue, Mercedes-Benz hasn’t received any reports of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
The remedy involves replacing the front axle’s motor, and all affected EQBs will need this fix. Mercedes-Benz will inform owners by mail before July 9, 2024, and they’ll have to visit an authorized dealership for the repair.
