Improperly Secured 12-Volt Ground Connection – 2021-2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

“This site contains affiliate links for which OEMDTC may be compensated”

December 8, 2023 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 23V835000

Improperly Secured 12-Volt Ground Connection

An overheated ground connection can increase the risk of a fire.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V835

Manufacturer Mercedes-BenzeBay USA, LLC

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 164

 

Summary

Mercedes-BenzeBay USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 GLE350 and GLE450 vehicles. A 12-Volt ground connection may not be secured properly, resulting in the ground connection overheating.

 

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and secure the 12-Volt ground connection as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 6, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

 

Check if your Mercedes-Benz has a Recall

 


January 12, 2024

Check the 12V Ground Connection Bolt Torque

2023120010

This is to notify you of the Recall Campaign Launch to check the 12V ground connection bolt torque on 164 Model Year (“MY”) 2021-2022 GLE (167 platform) vehicles. The recall campaign will be visible on the www.NHTSA.gov website and may generate questions from customers. Affected VINs will be flagged in VMI as “OPEN” on January 12, 2024.

 

Issue

Mercedes-BenzeBay AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-BenzeBay vehicles, has determined that on certain MY 2021-2022 GLE (167 platform) vehicles, a certain 12V ground connection might not meet current specifications. In this case, the connection might loosen over time and the electrical resistance of the connection might increase. Due to the high electrical currents that flow through this connection, the temperature on this connection could increase. This might increase the risk of a fire.

 

What We’re Doing

MBUSA will conduct a voluntary recall. An authorized Mercedes-BenzeBay dealer will check the 12V ground connection bolt torque and rework it, if necessary.

 

Parts

The remedy is available and can be performed.

 

Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to sell or lease any new vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired. Once the remedy is available, the vehicles will be flagged as “OPEN” and Work Instructions will be available in NetStar VMI and Xentry Portal. Once the repair is complete, the vehicle may be sold or leased.

Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired. As a matter of normal service process, please check for other repair measures which might be applicable to the vehicle(s).

Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for car rental companies to rent new vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.

Notice to California Dealers: As required by 13 CCR 2117, a proof of correction (“POC”) certificate showing that the vehicle has been repaired under this recall must be issued by the authorized service facility, and that such a certificate may be required by California as a condition of vehicle re-registration or operation. Please reference this POC in the attached work instructions. Failure to complete this step may result in fines and penalties and lead to customer dissatisfaction.

 

Customer Notification Timeline

Customer letters will be mailed on January 26, 2024.

 


Check the 12V Ground Connection Bolt Torque

Check/test Procedure 1:

1. Visually check ground point (W10, Figure 1) and ground line (1, Figure 1) under the driver’s seat for damage.

For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0002ME.

 

a. If no damage is present:

Carry out Check/test Procedure 2.

 

b. If there is damage to the ground line (1, Figure 1) or ground point (W10, Figure 1):

Carry out Work Procedure 2.

 

Check/test Procedure 2:

2. Check nut (2, Figure 1) for correct tightening torque.

For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0002ME.

 

a. If tightening torque of nut (2, Figure 1) is correct and no damage present: End measure.

b. If tightening torque of nut (2, Figure 1) is not correct: Carry out Check/test Procedure 3.

 

Check/test Procedure 3:

3. Remove nut (2, Figure 1) and ground point (W10, Figure 1) from body.

For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0002ME.

 

4. Check threaded pin (3, Figure 2) and cable lug or ground line (1, Figure 2) for damage.

 

a. If there is no damage at threaded pin (3, Figure 2) and cable lug or ground line (1, Figure 2):

Carry out Work Procedure 1.

 

b. If damage is present at threaded pin (3, Figure 2) and cable lug or ground line (1, Figure 2): Carry out Work Procedure 2.

 

Work Procedure

Work Procedure 1:

5. Install existing ground line (1, Figure 1) including battery sensor (B95, Figure 1) with new nut (2, Figure 1) and tighten with prescribed tightening torque.

For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0002ME.

 

Work Procedure 2:

6. Clean area around ground point (W10, Figure 1) and threaded pin.

If necessary, recut threaded pin using a thread cutter.

 

7. Replace ground line (1, Figure 1) including battery sensor (B95, Figure 1) and nut (2, Figure 1).

For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0002ME.

 

8. Perform commissioning of battery sensor (B95).

For basic information, see AD00.00-P-2000-06ME.

 

Primary Parts Information

Qty.Part NamePart Number
As required (1)Ground line incl. on-board electrical system battery sensorA 000 905 39 16
As required (1)Hexagon Nut with Flange – Ground ConnectionA002990685064

 

Small parts such as screws, lock nuts, sealing rings, cable ties, fluids, sealant, etc. are not listed in the parts list. The required small parts are taken into account in the budgeting.

 

The following step applies to California dealers only.

Apply Proof of Correction Label (A 000 584 54 13) to area identified in Figure 1. Fill in the blank areas of the label. The campaign number for the California Proof of Correction is unique and must be entered as such (231210), your dealer code, and the date of the repair, using a black permanent marker.

Note: Clean bonding surface prior to affixing label.

 

The following step applies to California dealers only.

Provide the owner with the completed and signed Proof of Correction Certificate (A 000 584 42 14) (Figure 2), after you scan a completed form and attach to the RO. The recall number for the California Proof of Correction is unique and must be entered as such (231210).

 


Chronology Supplement for ODI  23-00855-30153-10

In March 2021, Mercedes-BenzeBay received an isolated report from a customer alleging their GLE vehicle displayed a battery warning message and they were unable to of start the vehicle. MBAG was not able to attribute the reported event to any deviation in the vehicle’s production or systemic failure at that time.

In late 2021/early 2022, an internal post-production quality feedback found a vehicle with a similar issue. MBAG’s further review determined that the vehicle had been designated for quality assurance rework during production. Contemporaneous documentation indicated that the rework action had been completed. During the course of MBAG’s subsequent investigation, however, it found evidence suggesting that in some instances the rework may not have been correctly completed. Based on that determination MBAG then reviewed field reports to determine if those reworked vehicles had reported any incidents that might be related to an incorrect rework. That review identified two vehicles that were the subject of March and October 2021 field reports, and determined that the erroneous rework could have contributed to the reported inability to start the vehicles.

Additional investigation and analyses determined that one individual reworker incorrectly performed the rework task (adjusting torque applied to a bolted 12V ground connection) during a limited production period, while documenting the rework as correctly performed.

Beginning in October 2022 and continuing through July 2023, MBAG conducted extensive investigations and analyses to determine whether there might be other potential consequences of the identified issue. This investigation determined that bolting that was not tightened with the force specified in the rework instructions could result in increased resistance at the 12V ground connection. Thermal testing during that time further determined that such current resistance could lead to heat development in the area under the driver’s seat.

Based on these findings, beginning in July 2023, MBAG analyzed material properties (including heat sensitivity) of components surrounding the 12V ground connection.

On December 1, 2023, MBAG determined that a potential safety risk cannot be ruled out and decided to conduct a recall.

MBAG is aware of one related field report in the US (described above). That report did not involve any claim of a crash, injury, or property damage. MBAG is not aware of any reports of property damage, fatality, or injury related to this defect.

 


4 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKEMODELYEAR
MERCEDES-BENZeBayGLE3502021-2022
MERCEDES-BENZeBayGLE4502021-2022

 


7 Associated Documents

Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-23V835-5650.pdf 645.495KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [630.37 KB]

 


Chronology Report

RMISC-23V835-9634.pdf 79.816KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [77.95 KB]

 


Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-23V835-1827.PDF 214.917KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [209.88 KB]

 


Recall 573 Report – December 13, 2023

RCLRPT-23V835-4531.PDF 214.932KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [209.89 KB]

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-23V835-0093.pdf 143.595KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [140.23 KB]

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-23V835-9447.pdf 1198.24KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [1.14 MB]

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-23V835-6417.pdf 1063.688KB

Loader Loading...
EAD Logo Taking too long?

Reload Reload document
| Open Open in new tab

Download [1.01 MB]

 


Latest Recalls Documents

For the Latest and Most recent Recall Information Visit the link below…

 


 

Bestseller No. 1
LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click 10~150 Ft-Lb/13.6~203.5 Nm (LX-183)
  • PRECISE & HIGH QUALITY - Manufactured in Taiwan, our torque wrench is engineered for superior precision. It ships pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy, ensuring dependable results every time. Includes a calibration certificate with a trackable serial number for your assurance.
  • DURABLE - Built to last, featuring a reinforced ratchet gear head made from hardened, heat-treated Chrome Vanadium alloy steel for maximum strength and durability.
  • LONGEVITY - Protect your investment with our proprietary Electro-Black finish, providing advanced rust and corrosion resistance for extended tool life.
  • PERFORMANCE - Easily read and set torque levels with our patent-pending dual-range scale. The high-contrast, yellow-on-black markings are designed for easy visibility, even in low-light conditions.
  • OMFORT - Equipped with a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction. The ergonomic, knurled handle ensures a non-slip, comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue.
Bestseller No. 2
EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10-150 ft/lb, 13.6-203.5 N/m
  • Durable Ratchet Head: Made from Hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V) Corrosion-Retardant: Satin Finish. Made in Taiwan
  • Easy Storage: A sturdy plastic storage case is included. Non-Slip Grip: Knurled handle
  • Easy to Read: High Contrast & Dual Range Scale. Accurate: Pre-Calibrated to ± 4%
  • Accessories included: 1/2" Drive 5" long Extension Bar
  • Simple and Reliable: “Click” sound tells the preset torque value is reached. Stop applying force when you hear and feel it.
SaleBestseller No. 3
CRAFTSMAN Torque Wrench, 3/8" Drive (CMMT99433)
  • Portability: durable case for portability or storage
  • Added comfort: bi-material handle for comfort and grip
  • Hassle free use: locking feature adjusts quick and easily for hassle free use
  • Quick identification: scales stamped into housing showing inch and metric torque setting
  • Meets or exceeds ASME specifications
SaleBestseller No. 4
SUERCUP 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench - 5-45 Ft-Lb/6.8-61Nm, ±3% High Accuracy 72 Tooth Click Torque Wrench for Bike, Motorcycle and Car Repair
  • High Precision and Quick Reading: 3/8 torque wrench has high contrast and dual range scale( 5-45 Ft-Lb/6.8-61 Nm),making it clear and easy to read. We have professional torque wrench production technology, and after 20000 tests, the calibration error range of the torque wrench is around 3%, making it an essential helper for you
  • Safe and Reliable Operation: Equipped with a bidirectional drive ratchet head, torque can be measured clockwise or counterclockwise. When the set torque value is reached, a "click" sound will remind you to stop applying force to prevent damage to the item due to excessive torque
  • Good Quality and Durable Material: Made of hardened chromium vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V). At the same time, the bottom buckle tail plug adopts a red anodizing process to improve the product's oxidation resistance during use and enhance surface wear resistance. 72 tooth ratchet head, made of chromium molybdenum steel.We use the quality materials which are resist corrosion and are durable
  • Quick Torque Setting: Simple and fast torque setting, pull down the locking knob and hold it down to rotate to the torque you need. Release the hand and the locking knob will automatically rebound to lock the torque value. And the designer referred to the appearance of the flashlight handle and designed a non slip and labor-saving knurled handle, making it more comfortable and easy to hold when using
  • Easy to Store and Widely Use: You will receive the 3/8-inch drive click torque wrench with a sturdy plastic shell storage box, which is very delicate and durable. Torque wrench is suitable nuts and bolts on various occasions, such as bike, motorcycle, car spark, and torque wrench is suitable for repairing cars and motorcycles, which are essential maintenance tools for car owners
SaleBestseller No. 5
Hairich 1/2 Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, Dual-direction Torque Wrench 10-170.0ft.lb/13.60-230.5Nm, 72-tooth Torque Wrenches with Dual Range Scales, ±3% High Precision For Bike
  • ±3% HIGH PRECISION AND COOL APPEARANCE: 1/2 inch drive torque wrench (10-170ft.-lb/13.6-230.5Nm)has a calibration error range of ±3%, high precision, and comes with a corresponding serial number, which is easy to trace the original data, and you can use it with confidence.Hairich torque wrench not only has superior quality but also has a superior appearance. The classic combination of black and red is fashionable and textured, allowing you to enjoy a visual feast during use.
  • PREMIUM MATERIAL AND DURABLE: Experience the ultimate durability and antiskid with the torque wrench. The main body of Hairich torque wrench set is made of chrome vanadium steel alloy, which is more strong and more durable. The head of the inch-pound torque wrench adopts a ratchet design with a reversing device to improve work efficiency. The square knurled handle is made of aluminum titanium alloy, which is ergonomic and comfortable to hold for long-time use.
  • DUAL SCALE AND QUICK SETTING: Laser Printed by dual-range(ft-lb and Nm). Our professional torque wrench is easy to read and provides direct unit conversion, When the set torque value is reached, the torque wrench will make an audible and felt click to remind you to stop applying force. Pull down the lock knob and hold it until the torque setting is completed. Release the hand, and the lock knob will automatically rebound back to lock the value.
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN AND POWERFUL: Every design of our industrial torque wrench conforms to ergonomic, easy to handle.72-tooth ratchet, 5° ratcheting arc head, a quick-release button for easy loading and unloading, and an aluminum non-slip handle for excellent grip and control. A recent research review that, 72-tooth ratchets are very professional tooth ratchets, you just only rotate 5 degrees to finish it. Not easy to slip and wear, can be used in small spaces, and is more durable and powerful.
  • EASY OPERATION AND SAFETY: Thanks to its bidirectional drive ratchet head, our torque wrench can be measured both clockwise and counterclockwise. When the set torque value is reached, a "click" sound will remind you to stop applying force to prevent damage to the item due to excessive torque. Notice: At low Nm settings under 5 Nm the "click" sound can be too light to hear.
Bestseller No. 6
TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench (10-80 ft.-lb.) | 24330
  • Includes 1-pc. 3/8 in. drive torque wrench; Storage case; Product manual with torque conversion chart
  • Wrench emits a click that can be heard and felt when the preset value is reached
  • Permanently marked, high-contrast dual-range scale is easy to read, even in low light
  • Reversible ratchet head drives in both directions and measures torque in clockwise direction
  • Durable all-steel construction has no plastic parts to break or wear out
SaleBestseller No. 7
YIYEIE Upgrade 1/4" Drive Torque Wrench, 10-220 in.lb/1-24.9 Nm, Small Inch Pound Torque Wrench for Bike, MTB, Bicycle & Motorcycle, ±3% High Accuracy, with Easy-to-Use Locking Ring
  • 57% Efficiency Boost: Our upgraded collar eliminates the need to hold locking rings mid-adjustment like classic torque wrenches. Push up to unlock → Rotate adjustment knob → Pull down to lock. Quicker, easier, save your time and effort!
  • Become a Torque Pro: The laser-engraved scale on a black background with white markings ensures clear readability, even in sunlight. Perfect for car, truck, and motorcycle repair. Great gift for car owners or anyone in need of a reliable and durable torque wrench tool
  • ±3% High Precision: Pre-calibrated to ±3% accuracy with 1 in-lb micro-adjustments. Boasting a dual-range scale (10-220 IN-LB/10-24.9 Nm) and traceable serialized certification - your assurance of reliable torque control for bicycle repair and industrial maintenance
  • Reliable Click-Stop: Simply hear the "CLICK" sound or feel the vibration through the torque wrench handle when you've reached the pre-set torque value. This signals you to stop applying force, ensuring bolt nuts are safe and secure. Simple and reliable, No more guess
  • 72 Tooth, Dual-Direction: Comes with a reversible 72-tooth ratchet head, this 1/2-Inch drive torque wrench allows for dual directions with ease. Quick-release button ensures a secure fit and rapid socket swapping. Anti-slip handle provides comfort and security during use
Bestseller No. 8
Hairich 1/4 3/8 1/2 in Drive Click Torque Wrench, 3Pcs Torque Wrench 1/4 3/8 1/2, 20-240in.lb, 10-45ft.lb, 10-170ft.lb,72-Tooth Dual Range Scales, with Quick Release Reversible Head for Bike, Car
  • 【Perfect Torque Wrench Set】:Including 1/4 drive torque wrench 20-240in.lb/2.3-27.1 Nm, 3/8 drive torque wrench 10-45ft.lb/61Nm, 1/2 drive torque wrench 10-170ft.lb/13.6-230.5Nm.Dual Range Scales Graduated in FT.LB and M.M. High contrast and dual range scale pre-calibrated to ± 3%.
  • 【Premium Material And Durable】:Experience the ultimate durability and antiskid with the torque wrench. The main body of Hairich torque wrench set is made of chrome vanadium steel alloy, which is more strong and more durable. The head of the inch-pound torque wrench adopts a ratchet design with a reversing device to improve work efficiency. The square knurled handle is made of aluminum titanium alloy, which is ergonomic and comfortable to hold for long-time use.
  • 【Effortless Torque Setting】:Simply pull down and hold the locking knob, rotate the handle to your desired torque, and release the knob. The locking knob will automatically snap back, securely locking the torque value in place. Adjustable wrenches save you from struggling with complicated settings.
  • 【Reliable Torque Indication】:Hairich drive torque Wrench provides clear and unmistakable feedback when your desired torque is reached. You will feel a slight vibration or hear a reassuring "click" indicating that you've achieved the preset torque value. This feature ensures that you will not over-tighten or apply too little force.
  • 【All-in-One Solution】:Hairich torque wrenches set provides a comprehensive solution for all your fastening needs. Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this set will meet your demands. Torque wrenches versatility, durability, and ease of use make it an essential tool for anyone working with nuts and bolts.
SaleBestseller No. 9
SUZUME 3PCS Torque Wrench Set 72 Teeth Dual-Direction Adjustable Torque Wrench Dual-Scales 1/4 & 3/8 & 1/2-Inch ±3% Accuracy Click Torque Wrenches for Bicycle, Motorcycle, Car,Maintenance
  • [𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋] SUZUME torque wrenches are made of CR-V steel to ensure the durability of the torque wrench. The surface is also chrome-plated, which not only improves corrosion and wear resistance, but also gives the torque wrench set automotive a mirror-like luster, adding a touch of eye-catching beauty. For the handle, we chose a lightweight aluminum alloy, whose low-density characteristics greatly reduce the overall weight of the tool, making it easier to operate.
  • [𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇 𝐀𝐂𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐘]The SUZUME 3PCS torque wrench set, covering torque wrench 1/2 drive,torque wrench 3/8 drive and 1/4 torque wrench, is each a commitment to superior workmanship. After rigorous fatigue testing, this torque wrench kit can withstand more than 10,000 repeated uses and still maintain an incredible ±3% accuracy, which means you can use them with confidence and without worrying about re-calibration.
  • [𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤] SUZUME torquimetro are designed with a bi-directional ratchet head that makes it easy to apply precise torque, whether you operate the wrench clockwise or counterclockwise. When your operation reaches the preset torque value, the wrench will immediately emit a clear "click" sound, accompanied by a vibration, to ensure that you can sense and stop the operation at the first time, avoiding damage to bolts, nuts and even torque wrench' due to excessive application of force.
  • [𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥-𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬] precision at a glance! SUZUME strives for perfection in every detail of every product. Every click torque wrench is equipped with a clearly visible torque scale that makes setting and reading torque values effortless. We use laser printing technology to ensure the durability of these scales, so you don't have to worry about the values becoming blurred by wear and tear, even under frequent use over a long period of time.
  • [𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞]We understand that superior products and service are the key to earning your trust. That's why SUZUME products are backed by a comprehensive aftermarket service, our commitment to quality and your peace of mind. Our mission is very clear - 'Your Reliable Tool Partner' Our team will respond promptly to any questions you have and resolve your queries and problems quickly.
Bestseller No. 10
AEROFORCE 1/4 & 3/8 & 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 3Pcs Torque Wrench Set 4-20Ft.lb, 5-45Ft.lb, 15-165Ft.lb 72-Tooth Dual Scale for Bike, Moto, Car Repair
  • 【Broad Application】🔧 For your convenience, The 3-in-1 torque wrench set can meet your different needs. Including 1/4 inch 4-20Ft.lb; 3/8 inch 5-45Ft.lb; 1/2 inch 15-165Ft.lb. Each torque wrench has a calibration certificate.
  • 【Higher Accuracy】 🔧 Each Torque Wrench is equipped with components calibrated for accuracy, With +/-3% accuracy. Each torque wrench extends the life of high-performance components and prevents damage from over-tightening.
  • 【Easily Use And High-Quality】🔧 The main part of torque wrench is made of chrome vanadium alloy. When the preset torque value is reached, the inch pound torque wrench will make a "click" sound that can be both heard and felt, which is a reminder that force is prohibited.
  • 【Convenient and comfortable】 🔧 Torque Wrench features a quick-release reversible mechanism that allows easy installation and removal of the sleeve and prevents it from falling off. The torque wrench can be adjusted in direction at any time, so that the torque wrench can be used in both directions.
  • 【Quality Assurance】🔧 As a professional tool manufacturing enterprise over ten years, we are committed to providing you with the best quality products and the most satisfactory service, so we are also very concerned about your use experience. If you have any problems in use, please let us know and we will respond as soon as possible and do our best to give you the most satisfactory response.

 


Last update on 2025-06-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

Leave a Comment

Share to...