Mercedes-Benz G-Class recall: over 9,000 vehicles worldwide pulled for defective wheel bolts
Mercedes-Benz recalls more than 9,000 G-Class vehicles worldwide due to defective wheel bolts; 551 cars in Germany may be affected and repairs take about 30 minutes.
Mercedes-Benz issues global recall for G-Class
Mercedes-Benz has announced a global recall affecting more than 9,000 G‑Class SUVs due to potentially defective wheel bolts. The company said the recall targets specific vehicles after an internal review identified a manufacturing issue.
The recall notice was filed after data published in the German federal motor transport authority’s database flagged the problem. Mercedes-Benz said the affected vehicles include certain models within the Series 465 that are equipped with full‑electric drive components.
Faulty wheel bolts could loosen during operation
Company engineers determined that some wheel bolts in the affected G‑Class vehicles may not meet required specifications. Mercedes warned that this condition can lead to loosening of the wheel‑fastening over time.
A company spokesperson said that in extreme cases the connection between wheel and hub could become detached while driving, significantly increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle. The recall notice explicitly cites that loss of vehicle control is a potential safety consequence.
Scope of the recall and impact in Germany
The recall covers over 9,000 vehicles globally, with national authorities reporting different volumes by market. German registration records indicate roughly 551 vehicles in Germany that may be affected by the defect.
Mercedes-Benz is notifying owners through its dealer network and national authorities, and has provided lists of VINs to help identify impacted vehicles. Officials in other markets are expected to publish their own affected counts as dealers confirm numbers.
Targeted models: Series 465 fully electric variants
The company specified that the issue has been observed in certain Series 465 vehicles, including versions described as having full‑electric drive. Mercedes did not indicate that the problem affects all G‑Class model variants.
Owners of petrol or diesel G‑Class models are advised to check official communications from Mercedes-Benz or contact their local dealer to confirm whether their vehicle is included. Mercedes said diagnostics will be used to determine eligibility for the free repair.
Repair procedure and dealer response
To address the issue, Mercedes-Benz will replace the wheel bolts on all affected cars. The automaker estimates the workshop procedure will take approximately 30 minutes per vehicle under normal service conditions.
Dealers have been instructed to schedule appointments and to perform the bolt replacement at no charge to owners. Mercedes emphasized that the part replacement is straightforward and that owners should arrange service promptly to mitigate any safety risk.
Market implications for the luxury G‑Class line
The G‑Class is a high‑end off‑road SUV in Mercedes‑Benz’s luxury portfolio and commands premium pricing in regional markets, including the UAE. Recalls of this scale can affect brand perception, though prompt remediation and transparent communications can limit reputational damage.
Analysts note that safety recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry and that timely dealer action often preserves customer trust. Mercedes‑Benz’s quick identification and notification may help reduce the number of incidents tied to the defect.
Owners seeking verification or further guidance should contact their authorised Mercedes‑Benz dealer or national vehicle authority. Dealers will confirm whether a vehicle’s VIN is included and arrange the free replacement of the wheel bolts.
Mercedes‑Benz said it will continue to monitor the situation and cooperate with transport authorities as the recall is implemented.
