The U.S. division of Mercedes-Benz is recalling 1.29 million vehicles over a problem with its eCall emergency call system that could send the wrong location information to emergencies after an accident, which could delay rescue at a critical moment.
In a statement to Reuters On Saturday, the carmaker said “a temporary breakdown of the power supply of the communication module caused by an accident could result in the vehicle’s position being incorrect during a possible emergency call.” “However, other functions of the automatic and manual emergency call function remain fully operational,” he added. Mercedes-Benz USA told the outlet that it was unaware of any case of material damage or personal injury as a result of the problem.
The recall, which begins on April 6, covers a wide range of vehicles from 2016 to 2021, including CLA Class, GLA Class, GLE Class, GLS Class, SLC Class, A Class, GT Class, C Class, E Class, S Class, CLS Class, SL Class, B Class, CAP Class, GLC Class and G Class vehicles, according to a submission at the national highway traffic safety administration. The car manufacturer plans to fix the problem through a free software update that can be installed over the air or at a dealer.
Last year, Mercedes-Benz in Europe investigated a report from the Mercedes-Benz eCall center about a single incident where the eCall system sent out inaccurate location data for its vehicle, reports Reuters. In the lengthy investigation and review of the eCall software, the company discovered additional incidents where the wrong position of the vehicle was transmitted. Mercedes-Benz USA did not immediately return Gizmodo’s request for comment.