— Mercedes-Benz is recalling more than 3,600 vehicles with passenger frontal airbags that may not deploy correctly in a crash, although the cause is a bit strange and not related to problems associated with Takata airbags.
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE300d 4Matic
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE400 4Matic
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 4Matic
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG Coupe
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63S AMG
- 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE63S AMG Coupe
- 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 4Matic
- 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE550 4Matic
- 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG 4Matic
In 2016, Mercedes discovered a vehicle that had the vehicle identification number (VIN) label covered from excess bulkhead firewall insulation. The automaker investigated and found other vehicles with the same problems concerning the VIN labels located behind the windshields.
Engineers determined there were problems at the supplier that caused different sizes of firewall insulation in the bulkheads, leaving more insulation than needed.
In addition to blocking the VIN, the insulation can impair the windshield bonding in the area of the VIN label.
In June 2017, the investigation indicated a potential effect on the windshield bonding on the passenger side that could impair the passenger-side airbag inflation.
The automaker says no vehicles built after August 27, 2016, are affected because the supplier changed its production procedures.
Mercedes-Benz dealers will check the bulkhead insulation for excess insulation and remove it, and the windshield bonding will be worked on if needed.
The recall should begin in December 2017, but concerned owners may call Mercedes at 877-496-3691.