The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 has 8 recalls, the most serious being a loose 48-volt ground cable connection in the engine compartment that can overheat and start a fire.
Several recalls affect occupant safety in a crash. Loose side impact sensor connectors can delay airbag and seatbelt activation during a side collision. A seat-related defect can also prevent airbags and seatbelts from performing properly when needed. The rear seatbelt retractors may deactivate too early, which can keep a child safety seat from locking in securely. On the electrical side, a battery issue can disable safety features including the emergency call system, hazard lights, and automatic door locks. The emergency call system has two separate concerns: one where it may stop working entirely and leave occupants unable to reach emergency services, and another where it can send responders to the wrong location after a crash. The multimedia system software can cause the backup camera display to go black or restart on startup, reducing the driver's view when reversing.