Mercedes-Benz recalls GLE models in South Africa due to safety issues

CAR company, Mercedes-Benz has announced a recall of some of its Mercedes-Benz GLEs sold in South Africa.

So far, at least 54 affected cars have been sold in SA while others have been possibly exported to Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland.

According to the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the production dates of these vehicles range from 2022-2026.

In a statement on Monday, the NCC explained that the recall was a result of a high-voltage starter-alternator processor load.

"According to the supplier, the vehicle’s processor in the control unit of the high-voltage starter generator may experience sporadic overload. Consequently, the system’s monitoring function might incorrectly detect a faulty component in the high-voltage starter-alternator," the commission said.

It added that the functions of the high-voltage starter generator could be deactivated, potentially leading to an unexpected loss of propulsion power without warning. This situation could increase the risk of an accident.

"Consumers with affected vehicles are urged to make a booking with any authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer for a replacement, at no extra cost," the NCC stated.

Three years ago, Mercedes recalled around one million vehicles globally, over issues around the braking systems.