Mercedes-Benz is recalling 24,000 vehicles over drive shafts that can fail without warning
The defect affects 2018–2020 E-Class and S-Class 4MATIC models and can cause sudden loss of propulsion with no prior warning
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Mercedes-Benz is recalling 24,092 vehicles after discovering that a front driveshaft component can fracture and cut power to the wheels without warning, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Among the vehicles subject to the action, as detailed by Carscoops, are 4MATIC-equipped E-Class and S-Class models from the 2018, 2019, and 2020 model years — specifically the E 400, E 450, S 450, S 560, and Mercedes-Maybach S 560, spanning coupe, cabriolet, and wagon body styles. All 24,092 vehicles in the recall are estimated to carry the defect.
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The problem comes from the universal joint in the front driveshaft. Because of a mistake in the supplier’s manufacturing process, the joint wears out faster than it should and starts to leak lubricant. If too much lubricant is lost, the joint can break completely, which disconnects the transfer case from the front-axle transmission and leaves the car unable to move.
In typical cases, drivers would notice noise or vibration hinting at trouble before a full driveshaft failure. That assumption was called into question when Mercedes looked into a non-U.S. complaint that surfaced in late 2025 — a case in which propulsion was lost with no prior indication of a problem. After months of follow-up testing, engineers established that a compromised driveshaft can give out without producing any noticeable symptoms. Those findings led Mercedes to initiate the recall on March 27. The company has logged 30 U.S. warranty claims related to the defect spanning January 2022 through April 2025; no accidents or injuries have been reported in connection with the issue.
The affected vehicles were made between October 1, 2017, and December 18, 2019. The supplier fixed the problem with a new process starting December 20, 2019. Owners should get notification letters by June 2, 2026, after dealers were alerted on April 10. If a car has a faulty driveshaft, Mercedes will replace it for free.
To check if a vehicle is included in the recall, visit NHTSA.gov and use the VIN lookup tool. For questions, Mercedes-Benz customer service can be reached at 1-800-367-6372.