3 Minutes
Mercedes-Benz owners in the U.S. are being urged to take a closer look at their cars after the automaker issued a voluntary safety recall for more than 24,000 luxury models. The problem sits in a small but critical component, and the consequences can be serious: an unexpected loss of drive power.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall is tied to a defect in the driveshaft universal joint. In plain terms, the part can crack or break under certain conditions. If that happens while the vehicle is moving, propulsion can disappear without warning. On a highway, that is the kind of failure no driver wants to think about twice.
Which Mercedes models are affected?
The recall covers several 4MATIC-equipped models from the 2018 through 2020 model years, including some of Mercedes-Benz’s most recognizable sedans, coupes, and wagons.
- E-Class E 400 4MATIC Sedan, Wagon, Cabriolet and Coupe, 2018
- E-Class E 450 4MATIC Sedan, Wagon, Cabriolet and Coupe, 2019 to 2020
- S-Class S 450 4MATIC, 2018 to 2020
- S-Class S 560 4MATIC Coupe, 2018 to 2020
- Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4MATIC, 2018 to 2020
Mercedes-Benz says authorized dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace the driveshafts at no cost if needed. That is the good news. The catch is that owners should not wait around if their car is included in the campaign.
Official notification letters are expected to go out on June 2, 2026. In the meantime, drivers can verify whether their vehicle is involved by checking the 17-digit VIN on the NHTSA website. The recall database entry began updating on April 10, 2026.
If you own one of these Mercedes models and have not heard from the dealer yet, it is still worth checking. A sudden loss of propulsion can be especially dangerous in fast-moving traffic, during overtaking, or when merging onto a busy road. A premium badge does not make that risk any smaller.
Mercedes-Benz USA customer service can also provide support at 1-800-367-6372.
Leave a Comment