Mercedes-Benz recalls SUVs for water leak

Jacksonville, FL – July 16, 2021 – Daimler AG (OTCMKTS:DDAIF), the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, has recalled 5,680 SUVs because water may seep into the floor at the front of the car, potentially damaging electronics installed there.  This may lead to a stall, upping the risk of a crash and injury.

The recall affects 2020 Mercedes GLB 250 SUVs.

Recall summary  

The recall concerns a leak between the front wheel wells and the front footwells, where drivers and passengers put their feet. The 2020 GLB 250 4matic SUV’s body may not have been sealed properly during manufacturing, allowing water to leak inside. 

Previous recalls   

This recall expands on a 26-car recall from May  2020 for the same issue. Mercedes received reports in October 2020 that vehicles which had supposedly been “fixed” at the factory were still showing signs of water damage in the front  footwells. Because Mercedes-Benz can no longer be sure that all GLB250s in production were fixed, the automaker will recall the whole lot to make sure every SUV is properly sealed.

Risks

Sensitive electronics installed under vehicle occupants’ feet could be water-damaged by this kind of leak. This damage could cause the car to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. It could also black out the information panel, including important warning lights for the engine and brakes. 

Read more about what to do if your car stalls on the road in this article about a Chrysler truck recall.

Potential fire risk?

While the manufacturer does not say it explicitly, its previous water leak recall also carried a risk of electrical short, which may lead to a fire. For tips on what to do in the event of a car fire, please visit this article.

Warning signs

Mercedes SUV owners should keep an eye out for wet carpets in the front seat and fogged-up windows, which could be a sign that a puddle is forming under their feet.

The repair

Mercedes Benz dealers will check the front footwells for  signs of water and will, if needed, properly seal the front of the car and repair any water-damaged components. This inspection and repair are free. Mercedes will notify owners by mail in early August.

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

Over 5,600 vehicles are included in this Mercedes Benz recall. To see if your SUV is one of them, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.

Rebecca RandMercedes-Benz recalls SUVs for water leak