Mercedes Recalls 16 CLA EVs Over Seat Belt Flaw

Wouter Smit · 2026-05-18

Mercedes-Benz just issued a recall for 16 of its all-electric CLA models. The problem? A seat belt malfunction that could leave you less protected than you think. Here is what you need to know and how to stay safe. ### What Went Wrong? The issue is with the front seat belt retractors. In certain 2025 CLA EVs, the belts might not lock properly during a crash. That means they could let you move forward more than they should, which raises the risk of injury. Mercedes caught the problem during internal testing, so no accidents have been reported yet. Still, it is a serious safety concern.  ### Which Cars Are Affected? Only 16 vehicles are involved, all from the 2025 model year. If you own a CLA EV, your chances of being affected are tiny. But if you are one of the 16, you will get a notice from Mercedes. The company will inspect and, if needed, replace the faulty retractors for free. No out-of-pocket costs for you. ### What Should You Do? First, check if your car is part of this recall. You can do that by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your VIN. Or just call your local Mercedes dealer. They can look it up in seconds. We recommend doing this even if you think you are safe. It takes two minutes and could save your life. ### Why This Matters for All Drivers This recall is a reminder that even luxury brands can have flaws. Mercedes-Benz is known for quality, but no manufacturer is perfect. That is why you should always stay on top of recalls. Think of it like checking the air in your tires or changing your oil. It is basic maintenance for your safety. ### How to Stay Informed Here are a few tips to keep your car safe: - Check for recalls every few months. Set a reminder on your phone. - Sign up for alerts from the NHTSA. They will email you when a new recall hits your VIN. - Talk to your dealer. They can tell you about any open recalls when you go in for service. ### The Bottom Line Mercedes-Benz is doing the right thing by catching this early and fixing it for free. But the real takeaway is this: never ignore a recall notice. Your seat belt is your best friend in a crash. Make sure it works. If you have a CLA EV, check your VIN today. If not, check anyway. It is a small habit that makes a big difference.