Mercedes-Benz recalls some G-Wagon EVs due to risk of wheels falling off
Before you take your electric G-Wagon for its next off-roading excursion, you may want to stop by an authorized dealer. The German automaker issued a recall for every Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ technology with the 2025 model year, as first spotted by InsideEVs . According to the recall on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website , the current wheel bolts could "allow a wheel to loosen or detach from the vehicle," potentially affecting 3,734 models on the road. The recall report explained that the electric G580's wheel bolts were "not adapted to the increased vehicle mass and higher torque loads associated with the electric variant." According to the NHTSA report, Mercedes-Benz used the same wheel assembly and bolts as its other G-Class vehicles for the electric model, but conducted an analysis from September 2024 to January 2025 that confirmed these wheel bolts could loosen from repeated rough driving and wheel changes, specifically with the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ technology models. In the end, Mercedes-Benz concluded in the report that it couldn't rule out the risk, even though the wheel bolt loosening was "unlikely to occur under real-world operating scenarios." To get it fixed, owners have to bring their affected G580s to a Mercedes-Benz authorized dealer, who will replace the bolts for free. Owners of the electric G580s, whose 2025 model year started at around $160,000, will get mail notices starting in late May. Besides this luxury SUV model, Mercedes-Benz had to issue another recall for another EV in
Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for all 2025 model year G580 electric G-Wagons, following concerns that wheel bolts may loosen or detach, posing a significant safety risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the issue affects 3,734 vehicles currently on the road. The recall stems from the fact that the electric G580's wheel bolts were not designed to withstand the increased vehicle mass and higher torque loads associated with the electric variant.
Mercedes-Benz initially used the same wheel assembly and bolts as its other G-Class vehicles for the electric model. However, an analysis conducted between September 2024 and January 2025 revealed that the wheel bolts could loosen due to repeated rough driving and wheel changes, particularly in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ technology models. The automaker concluded that, while the risk of wheel bolt loosening was "unlikely to occur under real-world operating scenarios," it could not entirely rule out the possibility.
To address the issue, Mercedes-Benz is offering free replacement of the problematic wheel bolts at authorized dealerships. Owners of the affected electric G580s, which start at around $160,000 for the 2025 model year, will receive mail notices starting in late May, urging them to schedule a visit to a dealer for the necessary repair.
This is not the first time Mercedes-Benz has faced a recall for an electric vehicle. In 2021, the company had to recall a smaller number of EQS EVs and S-Class sedans due to a different issue: the vehicles allowed video playback on the dashboard even while the car was moving.
The G580 electric G-Wagon recall highlights the challenges automakers face when transitioning to electric vehicles, as they must not only adapt to new powertrains but also ensure that other components, such as wheel assemblies, are compatible and safe. Mercedes-Benz's proactive approach to addressing this issue demonstrates a commitment to customer safety, even for its high-end electric models.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles, it is crucial for manufacturers to thoroughly test and validate all components to ensure they meet the unique demands of electric powertrains. While the risk of wheel detachment in the G580 electric G-Wagon is deemed "unlikely," the recall serves as a reminder that no potential hazard should be overlooked, especially when it comes to the safety of drivers and passengers.
Mercedes-Benz has a history of producing durable and reliable vehicles, and this recall is a rare setback for the brand. However, it underscores the importance of continuous improvement and rigorous testing in the development of electric vehicles. By promptly addressing the issue and offering free repairs, Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating its dedication to maintaining the trust of its customers and upholding its reputation for quality and safety.
In the context of the broader electric vehicle market, this recall serves as a cautionary tale for other automakers. As more companies transition to electric powertrains, they must ensure that all components are thoroughly evaluated and adapted to the unique characteristics of electric vehicles. This includes not only the powertrain but also elements such as wheel assemblies, which may require modifications to accommodate increased mass and torque loads.
For Mercedes-Benz, the recall of the G580 electric G-Wagon is a temporary setback, but it is a necessary step to ensure the safety of its customers. The automaker's prompt response and commitment to addressing the issue demonstrate a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, it will be crucial for all manufacturers to prioritize thorough testing and validation to minimize the risk of recalls and ensure the safety of their vehicles.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz's recall of the 2025 model year G580 electric G-Wagon highlights the challenges and responsibilities faced by automakers in the transition to electric vehicles. While the risk of wheel detachment is deemed "unlikely," the recall serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous testing and validation. By addressing the issue proactively and offering free repairs, Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating its commitment to customer safety and the ongoing evolution of electric vehicle technology.
