Mercedes Recalls Electric SUVs, Citing Fire Risks

Mercedes-Benz is recalling 12,000-plus EQB electric sport utility vehicles due to fire risks associated with their high-voltage battery systems. 

This is the second time Mercedes-Benz has recalled the 2022-2024 SUVs for the same issue. The company says this time around it will replace very high-voltage battery packs in the SUVs.

The vehicles’ early production batteries are more susceptible to damage from external factors, Mercedes-Benz told federal auto safety regulators. The batteries could wear down and short-circuit, increasing the risk of fires.

“Due to the combination of certain production and use conditions, an internal short circuit of a battery cell in the high-voltage battery might lead to a thermal event,” the company said in a recall notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Subsequently, an increased risk of a fire cannot be ruled out.”

Mercedes-Benz said it plans to notify owners of recalled vehicles and will begin fixing the cars in April. The automaker will replace the SUVs’ high-voltage battery packs with newer versions that the company said are already used in later models. 

In the meantime, the company wants owners to take certain precautions. Owners should park their cars outside and limit battery charging to no more than 80 percent, Mercedes-Benz said.

The company first recalled the SUVs in October 2025, issuing a software update designed to reduce fire risk. Mercedes-Benz said it is aware of at least two fires in recalled vehicles, incidents that occurred before the initial software fix. 

How the California Lemon Law Works

These kinds of safety recalls are all too common for Mercedes-Benz and other major carmakers. Automobile manufacturers recall millions of vehicles across the U.S. every year, citing serious defects that increase the risk of accidents. 

Last year, for example, Mercedes-Benz recalled a small number of Sprinter vans over a braking problem. The move came shortly after the company called back some high-end sport utility vehicles over a similar problem.

The good news for car owners in California is that you have some important rights and protections under the state’s lemon law.

The California lemon law generally requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces manufacturers to buy back vehicles that they are unable or simply refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the vehicle’s purchase price, as well as financing charges, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of recall requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replacement requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and take action.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.