Mercedes-Benz South Africa has announced a recall of its GLE model vehicles due to a potential safety risk linked to the high-voltage starter-alternator system. This move follows concerns that a fault in the control unit processor could lead to a loss of propulsion power, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The recall affects a limited number of vehicles but raises serious safety concerns that owners are being urged to address immediately.

Contents

The Nature of the Safety Risk

The issue stems from the high-voltage starter-alternator system in the GLE models, which is a critical component in hybrid and electric drive systems. According to the supplier’s report submitted to the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the processor in the control unit may experience occasional overload. This overload could cause the vehicle’s system to incorrectly identify a component as faulty—even when it isn’t.

The result? The control unit might shut down the high-voltage starter generator unexpectedly. If this happens while the vehicle is in motion, the driver could experience a sudden and unanticipated loss of propulsion power. The NCC warned that this kind of malfunction could significantly increase the risk of a collision, especially in fast-moving traffic or during overtaking maneuvers.

“This situation could increase the risk of an accident,” the NCC said in its statement, emphasizing the urgency with which affected vehicles should be brought in for inspection and repair.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall applies specifically to GLE models produced between 2022 and 2026. Mercedes-Benz South Africa has confirmed that a total of 54 vehicles are affected by the recall. These units were made available for sale throughout South Africa, and some may have also been exported to neighboring countries including Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland).

While the number of vehicles may seem small, the potential consequences of the defect make this recall significant. Mercedes-Benz South Africa and the NCC are urging all GLE owners to check whether their vehicle falls within the affected batch.

What Should Owners Do?

Mercedes-Benz has committed to rectifying the issue at no cost to vehicle owners. If your GLE model is one of the 54 affected units, you are advised to contact any authorised Mercedes-Benz dealership as soon as possible to schedule an inspection and, if necessary, a replacement of the faulty component.

The replacement procedure will be carried out by certified technicians and will ensure that the control unit’s processor is functioning properly, eliminating the risk of unexpected shutdowns.

You can verify whether your vehicle is included in the recall by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Mercedes-Benz South Africa website or by contacting the company’s customer service line.

Broader Implications for Mercedes-Benz Lineup

This recall comes amid broader changes to Mercedes-Benz’s global vehicle strategy. The automaker recently confirmed that the current A-Class will be the last of its kind, as the company shifts its focus to more globally aligned models.

Speaking to Italian publication Quattroruote, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius noted that the decision to streamline the lineup was not easy but necessary. “Reducing complexity is a key task for us. For this reason, bringing the compact family from seven to four models was necessary in this segment,” he said.

In line with this simplification strategy, coupe versions of the GLC and GLE are reportedly under review and may be discontinued in the near future. Additionally, the C-Class Estate is expected to be phased out by 2028.

These changes are part of Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to optimize its offerings for global markets like China and the United States, where certain body styles are more popular than others.

Take Action Now

If you own a Mercedes-Benz GLE produced between 2022 and 2026, don’t delay—check your VIN and book a service appointment with your nearest dealership. With vehicle safety at stake, it’s better to be proactive and ensure your car is operating as it should. The recall is a reminder of the importance of staying informed about manufacturer updates and addressing them promptly.