NHTSA (USA)Medium Risk
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the communication module's SIM card can prevent mobile network connection, which disables the emergency call (eCall) system.
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S 450 has 8 recalls, the most serious involving a front body panel that can detach from the vehicle while driving and become a road hazard for other traffic.
On the occupant safety side, seatbelt pretensioners may fail to tighten in a crash, raising the risk of injury, and on certain vehicles the A, B, and C pillar covers may have been installed incorrectly, which can prevent side curtain airbags from deploying properly and allow the covers themselves to come loose in a collision. There is also a separate issue affecting vehicles where the instrument cluster has previously been replaced: the seatbelt reminder chime and warning light may not function, leaving front occupants without a prompt to buckle up. Two recalls cover the automatic emergency call system, which can either send responders to the wrong location or fail to connect entirely after a crash. The Active Brake Assist radar system may not apply automatic braking when needed, and the hands-off detection for the Active Steering Assist can malfunction, allowing the steering assist to stay engaged even when the driver's hands are off the wheel for an extended period.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the communication module's SIM card can prevent mobile network connection, which disables the emergency call (eCall) system.
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What the fix does
The communication module software will be updated at no cost through an over-the-air update or by a dealer.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front roof panel between the windshield and panoramic sunroof may not be properly bonded to the vehicle from a previous repair, risking separation.
What the fix does
The dealer will remove and replace the front roof panel using proper bonding materials and procedures at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The communication module software may fail to send your vehicle's correct location to emergency services when the eCall system activates during a crash.
What the fix does
A dealer will update the communication module software, or the update will be sent over-the-air, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The replacement instrument cluster software may fail to activate the seat belt warning system correctly, showing only a steady light instead of a blinking light with sound when a seat belt is unfastened.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the instrument cluster software at no cost to restore proper seat belt warning operation.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The A, B, and C pillar covers may not be properly installed. This could prevent the side curtain air bags from deploying correctly in a crash and allow the covers to separate from the vehicle.
What the fix does
A dealer will inspect the pillar covers and reinstall them as needed at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the radar sensor control unit may reduce or disable the Active Brake Assist system's ability to function properly.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the radar sensor control unit software at no cost to restore proper system function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The system that detects whether your hands are on the steering wheel may fail, allowing the Active Steering Assist to stay on even when your hands are off the wheel for an extended time.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the steering control unit software at no cost to restore proper hand-detection operation.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The seatbelt buckle may incorrectly signal that the belt is unfastened even when properly fastened, which can prevent the seat belt pre-tensioners from engaging during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the seat belt buckles at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.