NHTSA (USA)Medium Risk
At a glance
What can fail
A software error causes the eCall emergency system's date and time to be incorrect, which may result in an inaccurate vehicle location being sent during an emergency call.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz G63 has 4 recalls, with two tied for most serious: a steering coupling that can wear loose and cause complete loss of steering control, and an adaptive cruise control fault that can prevent the engine from cutting power when braking.
The steering issue stems from a coupling that may not have been tightened adequately, allowing it to wear over time until the connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels breaks down. The adaptive cruise control problem occurs when the electronic stability program malfunctions while Distronic Plus is engaged, leaving the engine producing full power regardless of speed or how hard the driver presses the brakes, which significantly extends stopping distance.
Two other recalls address safety in and around the cabin. The emergency call system can carry a software fault that causes it to report an incorrect date, time, and potentially an inaccurate vehicle location when placing an emergency call, which can delay first responders reaching the scene. There is also a door latch concern: the cable that releases the door latch when you pull the inner handle can snap if the door is stuck or jammed after a crash, trapping an occupant inside when a quick exit may matter most.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error causes the eCall emergency system's date and time to be incorrect, which may result in an inaccurate vehicle location being sent during an emergency call.
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What the fix does
Mercedes-Benz will send a remote software update to your vehicle. Dealers will verify the update worked or install a new communication module software at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The Electronic Stability Program may malfunction when Distronic Plus is active, preventing the engine from reducing power even when braking or in situations requiring lower speed.
What the fix does
Dealers will reprogram the Electronic Stability Program control unit software at no cost to restore proper engine power reduction.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering coupling may not have been tightened enough during manufacturing, causing the steering connection to wear over time.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the steering coupling at no cost once parts become available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The cable connecting the inner door handle to the door lock may break if the door becomes difficult to open, such as after a crash, preventing the door from being released from inside.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the door handle-to-lock cable on all four doors at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.