The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with hoppecke batteries. The battery maintenance schedule could be less than needed to maintain proper electrolyte levels.
The risk
The low electrolyte levels result in accelerated battery grid growth, increased potential for inter-cell rupture and sparking, and the potential for a battery explosion.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the batteries, including fluid levels. Some batteries May be replaced if necessary, on a case by case basis. In addition to the battery inspection, the addition of labels in the vehicle owner's manual and engine compartment will be included to conspicuously remind owners as well as dealer and service personnel of the need to perform battery maintenance. Owner notification began February 20, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 01V-366 (01V366000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Electrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery |
| Report date | December 4, 2001 |
| Owners notified | February 20, 2002 |
| Vehicles affected | 65,731 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 01V-366 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the batteries, including fluid levels. Some batteries May be replaced if necessary, on a case by case basis. In addition to the battery inspection, the addition of labels in the vehicle owner's manual and engine compartment will be…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 65,731 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.