283 Mercedes EQBs in the U.S. at Risk of Rolling Away Due to Safety Defect

Mercedes-Benz has identified a safety issue in 283 EQB models in the U.S. that could lead to the vehicles rolling away even when parked. The problem stems from a brittle weld in the front drive unit that may cause it to snap, rendering the parking pawl ineffective.

Issue Detection and Resolution

Mercedes first became aware of the problem in June 2022 when customers outside the U.S. reported drivetrain noises and vibrations. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a spur gear in the front motor could break due to a weak weld, leading to potential safety hazards.

Recall and Replacement

Owners of affected 2022 EQB 300 and 350 models will receive notification from Mercedes on July 9. The automaker will replace the front motors of these vehicles free of charge to rectify the issue and ensure the safety of the drivers and passengers.

Potential Risks

The faulty weld could cause the differential spur gear in the front motor to rotate freely, resulting in a loss of power to the front wheels. This defect not only affects the vehicle’s drivability but also poses a risk of the EV rolling away unexpectedly, even when parked.

Next Steps for Owners

Owners can check if their vehicle is affected by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. Signs of a potential issue include loud rattling noises while driving or changing gears, indicating a possible failure of the spur gear.