Mercedes-Benz is renowned for luxury and engineering, but even these high-end cars can suffer serious problems. From 2022 to 2025, virtually all Mercedes models have been affected by recalls, defects, and reliability issues – frustrating owners from Fresno to Los Angeles. This comprehensive guide breaks down the major manufacturer recalls, common defects (mechanical, software, and safety), consumer complaints, and even pending lawsuits over Mercedes vehicle problems. Most importantly, it explains how California’s lemon law protects you and why contacting an experienced Mercedes lemon law attorney can get you back on the road.

Manufacturer Recalls (2022–2025)

Mercedes-Benz has issued numerous safety recalls for 2022–2025 models, many of them affecting tens of thousands of vehicles nationwide. These recalls address problems that could lead to fires, engine stalling, loss of power, or other dangers if left unfixed. California owners should be especially vigilant, as driving an unrepaired recalled car can put you and others at risk on busy highways from San Francisco to San Diego. Below is a summary chart of major Mercedes recalls since 2022, followed by details on each:

Recent Mercedes-Benz Recall Highlights (2022–present):

• 48V Ground Cable – Fire Risk: Over 134,000 Mercedes GLE and GLS SUVs (model years 2020–2024) were recalled because a 48-volt ground connection under the passenger seat may loosen and overheat, potentially causing a fire. No warning precedes this issue – one moment everything is fine, the next your SUV could ignite. Dealers will inspect and tighten the ground cable to fix this electrical defect.
• Transmission Software – Stalling: About 105,000 2020–2023 GLE 450 and GLS 450 SUVs received a recall due to a transmission control software error. If the transmission fails to complete a downshift from 7th to 6th gear during a slight brake (especially in cold conditions or with hybrid regen active), the engine can suddenly stall with no warning. Stalling in traffic is extremely dangerous if your power steering and brakes stop responding. Mercedes issued a software update to prevent these stall events.
• Fuel Pump Failure – Loss of Power: A recall expanding to ~87,000 vehicles (various 2021–2024 models including C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, GLC/GLE/GLS SUVs, and even the G-Class) was issued for faulty fuel pumps. The pump’s impeller can deform after soaking in fuel, causing the engine to shut off while driving – essentially a sudden loss of all power. Mercedes acknowledged thousands of warranty claims for this defect, which typically leaves owners stranded and needing a tow. Dealers are replacing the fuel pumps free of charge.
• Main Fuse Box – Electrical Failure: Mercedes recalled over 36,000 cars and SUVs (2023–2024 models, including C-Class, S-Class, SL sports cars, GLC SUV, and new EQE/EQS electric models) due to an 80-amp main fuse that could fail because of a manufacturing flaw. A blown 80A fuse can cause the vehicle to lose drive power or critical systems (like airbags and instrument cluster) without warning. In some cases a fire might even be possible. The fix is to replace the fuse box on all affected vehicles.
• Front Brake Hoses – Fluid Leak: Mercedes issued a recall for 20,339 S-Class sedans (2021–2023 S 500 and Maybach S 580) because the front brake hoses could rupture and leak brake fluid. A brake fluid leak may lead to longer stopping distances or even brake failure, so owners were warned not to drive their S-Class until repaired. Dealers will replace the defective hoses to restore full brake safety.
• Misaligned Headlights – Visibility Issue: Approximately 15,000 GLC-Class SUVs (2019–2022, including GLC 300, GLC 350e, and AMG GLC 43 models) were recalled when it was discovered that their factory headlight aim was slightly off, potentially reducing nighttime visibility. While a minor-seeming issue, poor headlight alignment can be a safety hazard by failing to illuminate the road or by blinding oncoming drivers. Mercedes dealers are adjusting the headlamps to proper specifications free of charge.
• EV Battery Software – Power Loss: Nearly 15,000 of Mercedes’s newest electric models (2023–2024 EQE and EQS sedans and SUVs) were recalled due to a battery management system bug. A software error could unexpectedly shut down the high-voltage battery, causing a sudden loss of drive power even at highway speeds. Losing propulsion in traffic is extremely dangerous, so Mercedes issued an over-the-air software update to fix the BMS programming.

What to Do: If you drive a Mercedes from the past few model years, check your VIN for recalls (you can enter it on the NHTSA website or Mercedes’s recall lookup). The law requires Mercedes to fix recall issues at no cost to you. Driving with an open recall is risky – for example, a stalled engine or fire while driving in Sacramento traffic could lead to an accident. Staying informed on recalls keeps you safer, and it also documents the vehicle’s problems in case you pursue a lemon law claim later.

Common Defects and Issues in Mercedes Vehicles

Beyond official recalls, many Mercedes owners have encountered ongoing defects and annoying problems in their 2022–2025 cars. These issues span everything from high-tech software glitches to old-fashioned mechanical troubles. If these problems keep happening despite repeated repairs, your Mercedes might be a “lemon” under the law. Below we outline the most common defect themes:

• Electronic & Software Glitches: Modern Mercedes models are packed with computers – and not all of them work flawlessly. Owners report infotainment system crashes, MBUX software bugs, backup cameras going blank, and even safety sensors malfunctioning. One particularly scary issue is phantom braking – where the automated emergency braking engages for no reason. For instance, some 2022 S-Class drivers experienced sudden braking at highway speeds with no obstacles present. Software updates have been issued to address some of these glitches, but if your car’s electronics repeatedly misbehave (navigation freezing, warning lights flashing, etc.), it’s a serious defect. Electrical gremlins can also show up as battery drain issues – a class action alleges many Mercedes from 2004–2022 have a defect that causes the battery to die quickly.
• Mechanical Failures & Noises: Even with cutting-edge engineering, Mercedes isn’t immune to mechanical problems. Owners have reported engines stalling or misfiring (as in the GLS/GLE transmission issue above), rough gear shifts, and abnormal engine noises. Some models had issues with engine mounts – for example, a recall in 2024 found improper welds on the engine support in certain GLC SUVs, risking the mount breaking. Suspension and structural complaints have popped up too, like premature rust in the rear subframe (frame component) that can make the car unstable – a problem so severe it led to a lawsuit calling those cars “too dangerous to drive”. If you notice clunking sounds, vibrations, or parts failing under normal use, don’t ignore it.
• Safety System Problems: Some Mercedes owners have faced failures in systems that are supposed to protect you. We already mentioned brake hose leaks in the S-Class. Additionally, earlier Mercedes models had an infamous issue with the emergency call (eCall) system: a 2021 recall covered 1.3 million vehicles whose crash notification system could send responders to the wrong location. Airbag and seat belt complaints in newer models are rarer, but any airbag warning light or seat belt defect is obviously critical. If your airbags didn’t deploy when they should have (or deployed unexpectedly), that’s a serious safety defect. Always get such issues documented and repaired immediately.
• Build Quality & Other Complaints: Various niggling issues can make a new luxury car feel like a letdown. Owners have reported rattling noises in the cabin (for example, GLC SUVs with rattles in the rear hatch), peeling paint or trim (there was even a class-action settlement over peeling “Mars Red” paint on certain Mercedes), water leaks from sunroofs, and malfunctioning features (like a panoramic sunroof that won’t close, or power sliding doors acting up in SUVs). While some problems don’t pose an immediate danger, they still impact the car’s use and value. If your brand-new Mercedes spends more time at the dealer for fixes than in your garage, that’s not normal – it’s a lemon law concern.

Real-World Example: The 2022 Mercedes S-Class, the brand’s flagship sedan, had a number of owner complaints logged with NHTSA. These included electrical system failures and phantom braking incidents as top issues. In fact, there was an urgent recall in 2022 on the new S-Class because a bad weld in the rear axle could cause a suspension arm to break and loss of control – twelve owners were told do not drive your car for that issue. This shows that even the most expensive Mercedes can suffer serious defects.

Mercedes Consumer Complaints & Reliability Ratings

It’s important to look at what owners are saying about their Mercedes vehicles. Many drivers have filed complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and on consumer sites about the issues above. Patterns in these consumer complaints can reveal if a problem is widespread. For example, multiple owners of the 2022–2023 C-Class have complained of electronic malfunctions and engine issues, and  data shows the C300 and E350 models have each amassed over 100 owner complaints on various problems. Common themes include the electrical system, engine performance, and build quality concerns.

When it comes to reliability, recent surveys place Mercedes towards the lower end among car brands. In Consumer Reports’ 2023 reliability survey, Mercedes-Benz was ranked near the bottom – only a couple of brands scored worse. Owners reported more problems on average than with most competing brands. J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study told a similar story: Mercedes owners reported 240 problems per 100 vehicles, significantly worse than the industry average of 186. This was described as a “shocking freefall” in reliability, as Mercedes had been closer to average the year prior.

What do these numbers mean for you as an owner? Essentially, they validate that if you’re experiencing repeated troubles, you’re not alone. It’s not just bad luck – many 2022–2024 Mercedes vehicles have had issues. High repair rates and low reliability scores suggest that some defects are systemic.

If your car is constantly back at the dealership for fixes, keep records of those visits. Not only will this help with warranty claims, but it’s also vital evidence if you pursue a lemon law case. California law is on your side, but documentation of all those complaint-worthy problems is key to a successful outcome.

Lemon Law Lawsuits Related to Mercedes Defects and Safety

With so many defects emerging, it’s no surprise that class-action lawsuits have been filed against Mercedes-Benz in recent years. These lawsuits often seek to address defects that affect a large number of owners. While not every defect results in a lawsuit, the fact that legal action is being taken highlights the severity and scope of some problems. Here are a few notable Mercedes defect lawsuits:

• Rear Subframe Rust Class Action (2023): A proposed class action alleges that many 2010–2022 Mercedes-Benz models have a rear subframe that can prematurely rust and corrode “from the inside out,” potentially cracking and failing while driving. This defect could cause a loss of control (as the rear suspension is attached to the subframe). The lawsuit claims Mercedes knew these subframes were defective yet continued to use them. Owners in California and elsewhere have faced expensive repairs when their subframes rotted through.
• AMG Wheel/Tire Defect Lawsuit (2024): A class action filed in May 2024 focuses on the 2021–present Mercedes S580 (S-Class) equipped with optional 21-inch AMG V-multispoke wheels. The suit claims these performance wheels and low-profile tires are defective and prone to blowouts and bubbles. Essentially, hitting ordinary potholes can destroy the tire or rim due to the design. At least one owner alleges Mercedes failed to disclose this vulnerability. This is a safety issue because a tire blowout at speed can lead to an accident.
• Rapid Battery Drain Lawsuit (2022): Another lawsuit filed on behalf of owners of various 2004–2022 Mercedes models alleges an electrical defect causes batteries to drain overnight. Owners report constantly dead batteries, sometimes stranding them in unsafe situations. The suit claims Mercedes has not adequately fixed the issue and seeks repairs or compensation. Electrical gremlins like this can be hard to pin down, so a class action can force a recall or extended warranty for those affected.
• Other Notable Cases: There have been additional legal actions, such as lawsuits over moldy air conditioning odors (some Mercedes AC systems grow mold, causing foul smells and health concerns), and over paint defects (the “Mars Red” paint on certain older models was prone to severe peeling, leading to a settlement). While these aren’t safety issues per se, they do affect the value and enjoyment of the car – and in California, even those can factor into a lemon law claim if severe enough (e.g., a noxious mold smell that can’t be remedied). Mercedes has also faced lawsuits over malfunctioning transmissions in specific models (like the 2019 GLA250’s transmission control unit, which a suit alleges Mercedes concealed was defective).

For owners, these lawsuits are worth following. If a class action covers your car’s issue, you might benefit from a recall or monetary compensation. More immediately, the existence of a lawsuit bolsters your individual lemon law case – it shows the problem is real and recognized. Keep in mind, you don’t have to wait for a class action to get relief under the lemon law. You can take action on your own if your Mercedes has persistent problems.

California Lemon Law: Your Rights as a Mercedes Owner

Living in California gives you a powerful tool if you’ve bought or leased a defective car: the California Lemon Law (formally the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act). This law protects consumers when a vehicle under warranty has substantial problems that the manufacturer cannot fix in a reasonable number of attempts. If your 2022+ Mercedes has been in the shop repeatedly for the same issue (or an assortment of issues that collectively impair the use, safety, or value of the car), you could be entitled to a buyback or replacement.

Key points of California’s Lemon Law:

• Reasonable Repair Attempts: Generally, if a problem continues after 3-4 repair attempts for the same issue (or 2 attempts for a serious safety issue like brake failure) – or if your car was out of service for 30+ days – it likely qualifies as a “lemon.” For example, if your EQS electric sedan has been back to the dealer three times for the battery shutdown issue and it’s still not resolved, that’s unreasonable.
• Covered by Warranty: The law applies during the vehicle’s warranty period. All new Mercedes come with a 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle warranty. If defects showed up in that time frame and weren’t fixed, you’re covered. (It can also apply to certified pre-owned with remaining warranty, etc.)
• Manufacturer’s Duty: If a car is deemed a lemon, Mercedes-Benz must offer you either a replacement vehicle or a refund of your purchase (minus a usage fee for the miles you drove before the first repair attempt). In many cases, consumers prefer a refund and then move on to a different vehicle.
• No Cost to You: California’s lemon law says that if you win your lemon case, Mercedes must pay your attorney’s fees and costs. This fee-shifting provision enables consumers to get legal help without worrying about the bill. It levels the playing field between everyday car owners and big automakers.

Crucially, the law covers vehicles purchased or registered in California, which includes all the major metro areas – whether you’re cruising the streets of Los Angeles, commuting around San Francisco Bay, or driving through the Central Valley. It also covers used cars if sold with a warranty. So even if you bought a two-year-old 2022 Mercedes from a Fresno dealership and it has chronic issues, you could still have a case.

How Sierra Litigation’s Lemon Law Lawyers Can Help You 

Facing repeated car trouble can be stressful – but you don’t have to go it alone. This is where a Mercedes lemon law lawyer comes in. Sierra Litigation is a California law firm that specializes in lemon law cases, and our team has experience holding manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz accountable. Here’s how we can help turn your frustrating experience into a successful claim:

• Free Case Evaluation: We offer a free consultation to review your situation. Our attorneys will listen to what’s been happening with your Mercedes (all those repair visits and what was done) and evaluate whether it likely qualifies as a lemon under California law. We’ll give you an honest assessment and outline the next steps – at no charge.
• Guidance and Document Gathering: Lemon law cases rely on paperwork. We help you gather and organize the needed evidence – repair orders, warranty booklets, recall notices, and any communications with the dealer or Mercedes-Benz USA. Our lawyers know exactly what documentation is persuasive to win your case. If you’re missing some records, we can assist in obtaining them.
• Formal Claim & Negotiation: Sierra Litigation will file a lemon law claim on your behalf and handle all communications with Mercedes-Benz. Manufacturers often respond faster when they see a claim prepared by a knowledgeable lemon law attorney. We’ll push for a fair settlement – typically a buyback (refund) or a replacement vehicle – and ensure that any settlement follows California’s formula so you aren’t short-changed. Remember, our fees are paid by Mercedes when we prevail, not out of your refund.
• Going to Bat for You in Legal Proceedings: While many cases settle, if Mercedes won’t play ball, we are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and litigate the case in court. Our team has the litigation experience to fight and prove that your car meets the lemon criteria. Often just the threat of a well-supported lawsuit encourages the manufacturer to settle. Either way, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on getting your daily life back on track (with a reliable car!).

At Sierra Litigation, we take pride in serving consumers across California. Whether you’re in Sacramento, down in San Diego, or anywhere in between, we have you covered. Our firm has helped clients in Fresno, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, San Jose, and San Francisco – to name just a few – get justice under the lemon law. We understand the nuances of California statutes and the local court systems in these areas. No matter where you bought your Mercedes or where you’re experiencing issues, our statewide reach means you get accessible, top-notch representation.

Don’t Live with a “Lemon” – Take Action

A Mercedes-Benz is a significant investment – you paid for luxury and dependability, and you have every right to expect a safe, functioning vehicle. If your Mercedes has been plagued by any of the recalls or defects discussed in this report (or other serious issues), it may be time to invoke your lemon law rights. The sooner you act, the sooner you could be driving a car that works or getting your money back.

Sierra Litigation is here to help. Our friendly team is happy to answer your questions and explain the lemon law process in plain language (no legalese or pressure). We work on a contingency basis for lemon law cases – meaning it costs you nothing out of pocket. You have nothing to lose by reaching out for advice.

🚗 Is your 2022–2025 Mercedes a lemon? Find out today. Contact Sierra Litigation for a free case review with a Mercedes lemon law lawyer. Let us handle the fight while you get back to enjoying the drive, worry-free.