Mercedes ordered the recall after discovering that certain automated steering functions in affected models, including lane centering and lane keeping assist, may continue to work even when the driver’s hands are off the wheel for a prolonged period of time.
When working as intended, the computer should sound a warning if it doesn’t detect the driver’s hands on the wheel. If the driver doesn’t respond to repeated warnings, the vehicle will turn on its hazard lights and slowly come to a stop.
NHTSA says the potential defect is a problem because a driver’s inattention may increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, the system may not trigger warnings that should notify drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel, and won’t bring the vehicle to a complete stop automatically.
The recall follows a similar issue Mercedes had with the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus SUV. The automaker recalled 2,700 of the SUVs in January because of a defective hands-off detection system.
To date, there have been no accidents or injuries associated with the recall, NHTSA said.
Source: Consumer Reports