Mercedes-Benz’s US division recalls 1.29 million vehicles due to a problem with its eCall emergency call system that can send incorrect location information to emergency relief after an accident, which which can delay rescue at a critical time.
In a statement to Reuters on Saturday, the manufacturer said that “a temporary collapse of the power supply of the communication module caused by an accident could cause the position of the vehicle during a potential emergency call to be incorrect.” However, “other features of the automatic and manual emergency call function remain fully operational,” he added. Mercedes-Benz USA told the dam that it was unaware of any material damage or personal injury resulting from the problem.
The withdrawal, which will begin on April 6, covers a wide range of vehicles from 2016 to 2021, including the CLA, GLA, GLE, GLS, SLC, A, GT, Class C, class E, class S, class CLS, class SL, class B, class GLB, class GLC and class G, according to a request to the National Administration of Road Traffic Safety. The carmaker plans to fix the problem with a free software update that can be installed over the air or at a dealership.
Last year, Mercedes-Benz in Europe investigated a report from the Mercedes-Benz eCall center of a unique incident in which the eCall system sent inaccurate location data from its vehicle, Reuters reports. In the company’s lengthy investigation and review of its eCall software, it discovered additional incidents in which the incorrect position of the vehicle was relayed. Mercedes-Benz USA did not immediately return Gizmodo’s request for comment.