Mercedes-Benz Issues Voluntary Recall for 149 Luxury Vehicles in India
German luxury automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has announced a voluntary recall in the Indian market, targeting specific units of its high-end models. The recall campaign addresses a potential software-related issue in the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), with a focus on the Emergency Stop Assist function. This proactive measure underscores the brand's commitment to safety and customer satisfaction in one of the world's fastest-growing automotive markets.
Scope and Details of the Recall Campaign
The recall affects a total of 149 vehicles sold across India, encompassing select models manufactured within a defined timeframe. According to official statements from Mercedes-Benz, the impacted cars include:
- CLE models produced between September 2, 2024, and March 18, 2025.
- CLE 53 AMG Coupe versions manufactured from December 12, 2024, to March 18, 2025.
- C 63 S E Performance models from the AMG C-Class lineup, built between October 23, 2024, and November 23, 2024.
This targeted approach ensures that only vehicles with the identified software vulnerability are addressed, minimizing disruption for owners while prioritizing road safety.
Understanding the Emergency Stop Assist Function
The Emergency Stop Assist is a critical component of Mercedes-Benz's ADAS, designed to enhance driver safety in emergency scenarios. This sophisticated system activates under specific conditions, such as when the vehicle detects no steering input for an extended period or fails to sense the driver's hands on the steering wheel. In such instances, it is programmed to bring the car to a controlled stop and initiate an automatic emergency call, potentially preventing accidents caused by driver incapacitation.
However, Mercedes-Benz has identified a software-related problem that may cause this function to malfunction in certain situations. The issue could prevent the Emergency Stop Assist from activating as intended, compromising its safety benefits. While no accidents or injuries have been reported due to this glitch, the company is taking preemptive action to rectify it.
Steps for Affected Vehicle Owners
Mercedes-Benz has outlined a clear process for owners of the recalled vehicles. Authorized service centers across India will proactively contact customers to schedule inspections and necessary software updates. The entire procedure, including diagnostics and corrections, will be performed free of charge, reflecting the brand's dedication to customer care.
Owners are advised to:
- Wait for communication from their nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz service center.
- Alternatively, reach out directly to schedule an appointment if they suspect their vehicle is affected.
- Avoid relying entirely on the Emergency Stop Assist feature until the software update is completed, as a precautionary measure.
This recall highlights the increasing complexity of modern automotive technology, where software plays a pivotal role in safety systems. Mercedes-Benz's swift response demonstrates how luxury automakers are adapting to ensure reliability in an era of advanced digital integration.
