— Mercedes-Benz is recalling 6,200 vehicles to fix problems that interfere with the active steering assist systems.
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450 4Matic
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 4Matic Coupe
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4Matic Coupe
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S560 4Matic
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 4Matic
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
- 2018 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4Matic Cabrio
According to Mercedes, the "hands-off detection" function monitors how long a driver takes their hands off the steering wheel when the active steering assist feature is activated.
Monitoring is performed by measuring the inner torque values of the steering system, but a malfunction could leave the active steering system engaged even when a driver removes their hands.
The automaker says all warnings, including the ability of the system to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, might not be triggered as intended.
Mercedes-Benz discovered the problem in April 2018 when two vehicles showed no deactivation of the active steering assist systems after the drivers removed their hands from the steering wheels.
The automaker opened an internal investigation, but one of the vehicles still had problems even when the steering boot installation was corrected. Additional research showed the hands-off warning failed due to incorrect steering control unit software.
Owners of the affected vehicles have probably received initial recall notices describing the problem and how Mercedes dealers will correct the installation of the steering boots. However, dealers are not ready to perform the work, so owners should watch for second notices when Mercedes is ready to make recall repairs.
Mercedes S450, S560 and S63 customers may call the automaker at 800-367-6372.
