Mercedes-Benz USA has issued two recall notices affecting a range of its vehicles, with one involving a very limited number of units and the other covering a far broader portion of its recent production. The smaller recall concerns only 16 vehicles and relates to a defect in the front passenger seatbelt system.
The larger and more consequential action addresses a software issue within the infotainment control unit, affecting 144,049 vehicles across multiple model lines. These recalls reflect the increasing integration of advanced technology in modern vehicles, where both mechanical components and digital systems must function reliably to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
While the scale of the two recalls differs greatly, both raise concerns that require prompt attention from the manufacturer and vehicle owners.
Infotainment Software Issue Affects Over 144,000 Vehicles
The larger recall centres on a software-related fault within the infotainment system, which has been identified across a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles produced between the 2024 and 2026 model years. The affected vehicles span multiple segments, including sedans, coupes, sport utility vehicles, and high-performance AMG variants.
According to the official notice, a total of 144,049 vehicles are impacted. These include the 2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 e 4MATIC, 2025-2026 E 350, 2024-2026 E 450 4MATIC, 2024-2026 E 350 4MATIC, and the 2024-2026 E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain. Also listed are the 2025-2026 GLC 300, 2025-2026 AMG GLC63 S E 4MATIC+ Coupe, 2025-2026 C 300, 2025-2026 GLC 300 4MATIC, and the 2025-2026 GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe.
Additional affected models include the 2025 AMG GLC43 4MATIC Coupe, 2025-2026 C 300 4MATIC, 2025-2026 AMG C43 4MATIC, and the 2025 AMG C63 S E 4MATIC+. The recall also covers the 2024-2026 CLE 300 4MATIC, 2024-2026 CLE 450 4MATIC, 2024-2026 CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet, and the 2024-2026 CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet.
Further entries include the 2024-2025 AMG CLE53 4MATIC+, the 2025 AMG CLE53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet, and the 2025-2026 AMG GLC63 S E 4MATIC+. Newer 2026 models such as the AMG CLE53 4MATIC Cabriolet, AMG CLE53 4MATIC, AMG GT43, AMG C63 S E Performance 4MATIC+, AMG SL43, AMG SL55 4MATIC+, AMG SL63 S E Performance 4MATIC+, AMG SL63 4MATIC+, and the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 4MATIC+ are also included.
The list continues with the 2025-2026 AMG GLC43, the 2026 AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Wagon, AMG E 53 4MATIC+, and the AMG GLC43 Coupe. This broad coverage highlights the extent to which the software issue has affected multiple vehicle platforms within the Mercedes-Benz portfolio.
The problem itself relates to the infotainment control unit resetting more frequently than intended. While such resets are part of the system’s protective response, repeated occurrences may interfere with the proper functioning of the instrument cluster. This creates a situation where the driver may temporarily lose access to essential driving information, including speed and warning indicators, which raises safety concerns under regulatory guidelines.
Mercedes-Benz introduced updated software versions beginning in August 2025 to improve system stability. However, customer complaints, particularly from international markets, indicated that the issue persisted. This led to further investigation and eventual action by regulatory authorities in the United States.
In April 2026, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration engaged with Mercedes-Benz USA regarding the issue. It was confirmed that the company had already developed a corrective measure through an over-the-air software update. As a result, the update campaign has now been formalised as a recall to ensure full compliance and coverage.
Dealers were notified of the recall on May 8, 2026, and customer notifications are scheduled for June 26, 2026, in line with statutory requirements.
Also Read: Mercedes-Benz Recalls 12,000+ EQBs, Warns Owners to Park Outside Over Fire Hazard
Seatbelt Defect Recall Targets Limited CLA Models
The second recall involves a much smaller number of vehicles, specifically 16 units of the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA sedan. This includes four units of the CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology and twelve units of the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology.
The issue concerns the front passenger seatbelt retractor mechanism. Certain units may have been produced incorrectly, preventing the proper operation of the child seat safety feature. In such cases, the seatbelt may remain locked in position, limiting its usability and potentially affecting passenger safety.
The seatbelt assemblies were manufactured by Autoliv KFT in Hungary. Mercedes-Benz identified the issue in January 2026 during a certification test, where an abnormal locking condition was observed. Following this discovery, a design modification was implemented on November 17, 2025, to prevent the defect in subsequent production units. Vehicles manufactured after this date are not affected.
To resolve the issue, authorised dealers will replace the faulty seatbelt assemblies. Dealers received notification on May 8, 2026, while owners and lessees are expected to be contacted by June 30, 2026.
Also Read: S-Class Becomes The Platform for Mercedes-Benz Robotaxi Push
Overview of the 2026 CLA and Its Technical Features
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA introduces a new design and engineering direction for the brand, as it is the first model built on the Modular Mercedes Architecture platform. This platform supports both conventional and electric powertrains, offering flexibility in vehicle development.
The internal combustion variant is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that incorporates hybrid assistance. This configuration is available with front-wheel drive and is designed for efficiency and everyday practicality.
Electric variants of the CLA are offered with both rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations. These models are marketed under the EQ Technology designation in the United States. The CLA 250+ with EQ Technology serves as the entry-level electric model, with a starting price of $47,250. The more powerful CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology starts at $49,800.
These recalls highlight the challenges associated with integrating advanced electronic systems and safety components into modern vehicles. They also emphasise the importance of continuous monitoring, testing, and prompt corrective action to maintain safety standards and customer confidence.
