- Mercedes is issuing a third fire-related recall for the EQB.
- A previous software fix didn’t work and fires continued.
- The automaker will replace batteries in thousands of EVs.
Another day, another fire-related recall involving an electric vehicle. This has become a common occurrence, but the déjà vu goes much deeper as Mercedes is recalling the EQB for a third time.
The latest campaign is known as 26V073 and it replaces two recalls from last year that involved 7,531 vehicles. Unfortunately for owners, crossovers that were previously ‘repaired’ under those recalls will need to get the new fix.
More: Mercedes EQB Recalled Over Fire Risk
According to the government, 11,895 EQBs from the 2022-2024 model years have a battery that may fail internally. If this happens, the vehicle could catch on fire while parked or being driven.
Software Fix Under Question
While there’s a lot of back story, the initial recalls were sparked by a series of thermal events. The company tried to address the problem with a software update, but two crossovers that received the upgrade caught on fire late last year.
This kicked off an investigation, which eventually determined the effectiveness of the software update to reduce fire risks could not be “fully confirmed.” As a result, Mercedes decided to conduct a new recall that will see thousands of batteries replaced.
The batteries were supplied by China’s Farasis Energy and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said they could experience an internal short circuit of a battery cell. This is being blamed on deviations in the production process, which resulted in batteries that are “considered to be less robust against different stress factors potentially occurring during the life of the vehicle.”
What Should Owners Do Now?
Since a high state-of-charge appears to be a factor, owners are being advised to limit battery charging to a maximum of 80 percent. They should also park outside and away from structures until the battery is replaced. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done as a final remedy isn’t available at this point.
That’s bad news for owners, but notification letters will go out later this month. When replacement batteries are available, a second letter will be sent out. This impacts the 2022-2024 EQB 300 4MATIC, 2022-2024 EQB 350 4MATIC, and the 2023-2024 EQB 250+.
