Mercedes-Benz is recalling 27,190 S-Class sedans—including high-end Maybach versions—because their engines may stall or trigger fires.
The recall covers 2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz S 580 and Mercedes-Maybach S 580 sedans, which share a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with cylinder deactivation and Camtronic variable valve lift. These cars have faulty engine control unit software that could allow the engine to stall or overheat in certain conditions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
2021 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class
In the event of a failure of the Camtronic system (a separate issue not covered by this recall), the amount of fuel injected into cylinders could be erroneously increased during cylinder deactivation, according to the NHTSA. This can cause the engine to stall, as well as raise exhaust temperatures, which in turn could damage components like wiring harnesses or catalytic converters, as well as start a fire.
Mercedes told the NHTSA that it is in fact aware of one potential fire-related claim, but said it is not aware of any injuries, deaths, or crashes related to this issue. Drivers won't receive any warning before this problem occurs, though they may see a check engine light after a failure.
2021 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class
The remedy is an update to the engine control unit software, which dealers will perform free of charge. Mercedes plans to mail owner notification letters Nov. 26. Owners can also contact Mercedes customer service at 1-877-496-3691 for more information.
After failing to revive Maybach as a standalone brand in the early 2000s, Mercedes made it a sub-brand selling ultra-luxury versions of the main brand's vehicles. The Maybach S 580 was introduced alongside the current-generation S-Class for the 2021 model year as the second Maybach model under this new strategy, following the Maybach GLS-Class SUV. Mercedes soon followed it up with a Maybach S 680 variant powered by a V-12 engine, and has since introduced Maybach versions of the electric EQS SUV and SL roadster.
