Mercedes-Benz Recalls EQB Electric SUVs Over Fire Risk
Mercedes-Benz has initiated a significant recall affecting 12,236 of its EQB electric SUVs across the 2022, 2023, and 2024 model years. This action addresses a critical safety concern stemming from the high-voltage battery system, which presents a potential fire hazard due to internal short-circuiting. The German automaker is committed to replacing the affected batteries in all implicated vehicles to mitigate this risk, advising owners to take immediate precautions.
The root cause of the recall lies within the high-voltage battery system, where specific manufacturing variations in early production batches have been identified. These variations render certain battery cells more susceptible to internal short circuits, particularly when operating at a high state of charge. Such an event can lead to thermal runaway, significantly increasing the risk of fire. This vulnerability was not fully resolved by a previous software update, prompting Mercedes-Benz to opt for a comprehensive battery replacement for all affected units.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue is widespread, affecting 100 percent of the identified recall population. Vehicles not included in this recall are already equipped with a more resilient battery design. Should a thermal incident occur while driving, drivers are expected to receive a warning message. However, given the lack of pre-event warnings, Mercedes-Benz strongly advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors, away from other structures and vehicles. Furthermore, owners are instructed to limit their vehicle's charge to a maximum of 80 percent until the new battery is installed as a precautionary measure.
This current recall is a direct consequence of an internal investigation by Mercedes-Benz and its suppliers, which determined that a voluntary recall implemented in October 2025, involving a software remedy, was not entirely effective in eliminating the fire risk. The company became aware of two incidents in the United States where EQB vehicles, part of the original recall group, caught fire prior to receiving the initial software update. These incidents underscored the necessity for a more definitive solution.
Mercedes-Benz has already informed its dealer network about the recall. Owners of the affected EQB models can expect to receive initial notification letters by February 27, 2026, with subsequent remedy letters detailing the battery replacement process scheduled for early April. This proactive measure aims to ensure the safety and peace of mind of Mercedes-Benz EQB owners.
In summary, Mercedes-Benz is undertaking a substantial recall of its EQB electric SUVs to address a critical fire risk associated with the high-voltage battery. This decision to replace all affected batteries follows the inadequacy of a prior software fix and underscores the company's commitment to safety. Owners are urged to adhere to the recommended parking and charging guidelines while awaiting the necessary repairs.
