Summary
The Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class has 5 recalls spanning 2018 to 2021, with the most serious affecting 2021 models where a software fault causes excess fuel injection, overheating the exhaust and melting engine wiring, which can result in a sudden loss of drive power or a fire.
A second 2021 recall covers a separate software issue where the engine can shut off shortly after starting and refuse to restart, leaving the vehicle without power while driving. There is also a 2021 taillight control module fault that can disable the rear turn signals, hazard warning lights, and reverse lights, making the vehicle's intentions unclear to surrounding traffic and reducing its visibility when stopped with hazards on. On 2019 models equipped with the Driver Assistance Package, a software problem can prevent the Active Brake Assist feature from applying the brakes autonomously in an emergency, though audible and visual warnings still function. Going back to the 2018 model year, a steering assistant software issue on certain Maybach S 560 models means the Hands-off Detection feature may not recognize when the driver has removed both hands from the wheel.