Mercedes-Benz Recall 22V-189: Steering – steering wheel/handle bar

Affected: 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS53, 2021–2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53, 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63S and 13 more. Filed with NHTSA on March 25, 2022, covering about 8,396 vehicles.

The problem

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, EClass Coupe/Convertible, CLS, AMG GT 4-doors Coupe, and EQS vehicles with a heated leather steering wheel. Due to a software error in the hand detection control unit, the hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel when using the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system.

The risk

Deactivated hands-off detection will prevent DISTRONIC system features from functioning, including warnings to grab the steering wheel and calling first responders as part of the Active Emergency Stop Assist, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

The fix

Dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040010.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign22V-189 (22V189000)
Manufacturer number2022040010
ManufacturerMercedes-Benz USA, LLC
ComponentSteering › Steering wheel/handle bar
Report dateMarch 25, 2022
Owners notifiedMay 9, 2022
Vehicles affected8,396
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.

Owner complaints about the steering

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 22V-189 repair free?

Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 8,396 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.