Mercedes-Benz S 500 Recalls

The Mercedes-Benz S 500 has 15 recalls covering 2021 through 2023 model years, with the most serious being a fuel pump that can shut down without warning on 2022-2023 vehicles, cutting drive power and raising the risk of a crash.

On 2022-2023 models, a separate concern involves 80-amp fuses that can fail and cause a sudden loss of drive power or knock out critical systems including the airbags and instrument cluster. Also on 2022 models, a rear axle subframe weld can fail, causing the thrust arm to break free and pull the vehicle sharply to one side or produce sudden loss of control. A loose dashboard on one specific 2022 vehicle can cause the front passenger airbag to deploy incorrectly in a crash. On 2022 models with a heated leather steering wheel, a software fault can disable the hands-off detection system, which in turn prevents the driver assistance features from issuing steering warnings or triggering the automatic emergency stop function.

The 2021-2022 model years share a front brake hose recall where the hoses can rupture, leak fluid, and extend stopping distances. On 2021 models specifically, a loose electrical connector in the steering column can disable gear shifting, electronic stability control, the driver's airbag, and turn signals all at once. Also on 2021 models, airbag control unit software can deactivate the front passenger airbag sensor, leaving that seat without airbag protection in a crash. A software error on 2021 vehicles can disable the rear turn signals, hazard lights, and reverse lights, reducing visibility to other drivers. The rearview camera on 2021 models can fail to display an image due to a software fault in the infotainment system. The emergency call system on both 2021 and 2022 models can fail to place a call or transmit the vehicle's location after a crash, potentially delaying emergency responders. On 2022 models, the infotainment system can allow television and internet content to play on the screen while the vehicle is moving.