The Mercedes-Benz illuminated star logo is the subject of a massive recall in the United States of America. The premium car company must contact owners of two SUV models and schedule an appointment at the service.
Mercedes-Benz has been offering the illuminated star logo as optional equipment for several years. But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has analyzed the topic. The authority in the United States considers that the illuminated badge in the radiator grille features an improper installation. It could thus affect the functioning of other components of the electric system, that share the same ground connection.
The components that may encounter malfunctions due to the manner of installment of the star could be power steering unit, the headlight on the left side and the motor of the wiper.
The recall focuses on GLE and GLS models. The models fail to comply with the in-force safety regulations, thus increasing the risk of possible accidents. No such traffic incidents have ever been reported though.
What are the variants that came with the faulty Mercedes-Benz illuminated star logo?
The recall involves 12,799 GLE and GLS units, with 9,642 of them being GLEs. All of them are estimated to feature the faulty installation. The safety campaign includes the GLE 350, the GLE 450 and the GLE 580, but also the GLS 450 and GLS 580. All of them rolled off the assembly lines between December 8, 2018 and February 2, 2020.
Authorized technicians will simply relocate the ground connection. The operation will be free of charge. Mercedes-Benz will contact all owners in the upcoming weeks. The program should begin on the 8th of December. It would have taken place earlier, but the coronavirus pandemic changed the plans of the car maker. Customers who have further questions or suspect that their cars suffer because of the issu should contact NHTSA or Mercedes-Benz customer service for immediate action.
