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 GL63 has 4 recalls, the most serious involving axle bolts that may not be properly secured and a front suspension oil leak that can ignite and cause a fire.
The axle bolt concern affects the front and rear drive axle carriers, where bolts that were not correctly assembled can fracture over time. As additional bolts give way, the vehicle can become unstable and harder to control, raising the risk of a crash. The front suspension oil leak is a separate issue: if hydraulic oil escapes from the suspension system and contacts an ignition source, a fire can result.
On the steering side, water can enter the electric power steering control unit and cause the power assist to shut off without warning. When that happens, the steering wheel becomes significantly harder to turn, particularly at low speeds or during parking maneuvers, which can make it difficult to avoid a collision. There is also a software fault in the emergency call system, where the system's internal clock can fall out of sync with the actual date and time. If you are in a crash and the eCall system activates, it may transmit an inaccurate location to emergency responders, potentially delaying their arrival.
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
Oil in the Active Curve System reservoir can foam and leak from the cap's vent holes when the oil level drops below minimum during certain driving conditions.
What the fix does
Dealers will adjust the oil level as needed and replace the reservoir sealing cap to stop oil foam from leaking.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electric power steering connector may not be properly sealed, allowing water to enter the control unit.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the connector and inspect the electric power steering rack, replacing it if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Front and/or rear drive axle carrier bolts may have been assembled incorrectly, causing remaining bolts to fracture.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the axle carrier bolts at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.