Mercedes Recalls 25 Models Over Wheels That May Detach

Wouter Smit · 2026-05-25

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall affecting 2,712 vehicles across 25 different models. These cars were built between November 17, 2022, and December 4, 2025, and are being called into authorized dealerships in Germany for a serious safety issue: the wheel bolts may not have been tightened to the correct torque during production. That might sound like a small oversight, but it's anything but. When you're driving, those bolts hold your wheels on. If they're loose, the wheel could actually detach from the car. That's a terrifying thought, and it's exactly why Mercedes is acting fast. ### What's Going Wrong? The problem comes down to something called torque. Torque is basically the twisting force used to tighten a bolt. Every wheel bolt on a car has a specific torque spec, and if it's not reached, the bolt can loosen over time. In this case, Mercedes found that some bolts were simply not tightened enough during assembly. Here's the scary part: you might not even notice until it's too late. The bolts could come loose gradually, or they could fail suddenly while you're cruising down the highway. Either way, it's a risk no driver should take.  ### Which Models Are Affected? Mercedes hasn't released a full list of every model yet, but they've confirmed 25 different models are involved. That's a wide range, covering everything from sedans to SUVs. If you own a Mercedes built between late 2022 and late 2025, it's worth checking. - The recall covers vehicles manufactured from November 17, 2022, to December 4, 2025. - All affected cars are currently in Germany, but similar issues could pop up elsewhere. - The fix is simple: dealers will retighten all wheel bolts to the correct torque, free of charge. ### What Should You Do? First, don't panic. This is a proactive recall, meaning Mercedes caught the issue before any major accidents were reported (as of now). But you should still take it seriously. If you own a Mercedes from that timeframe, contact your local dealer. They can check if your car is affected and schedule a visit. The repair itself is quick: it's just a matter of tightening bolts. No parts need to be replaced, no major labor required. ### Why This Matters Recalls like this are a reminder that even luxury brands aren't perfect. Mercedes-Benz is known for quality engineering, but mistakes happen. The good news is that they're owning up to it and fixing the problem. For drivers, this is a wake-up call. Always stay on top of recalls. A loose bolt might seem minor, but it can lead to a catastrophic failure. Check your vehicle's recall status regularly, especially if you buy used cars. ### The Bigger Picture This recall also highlights how important proper manufacturing processes are. A single missed torque check can affect thousands of vehicles. That's why automakers invest heavily in quality control, but no system is foolproof. Mercedes is handling this well by being transparent and offering free repairs. But it's a good reminder for all of us: when it comes to safety, there's no room for shortcuts. So, if you drive a Mercedes, check your VIN. If you're in the market for a used one, make sure any recalls are addressed before you buy. And always, always trust your gut. If something feels off with your car, get it checked. ### Final Thoughts This recall is a big deal for Mercedes owners, but it's also a manageable one. The fix is simple, free, and fast. The real lesson here is about vigilance. Whether you drive a Mercedes or a Honda, recalls happen. Stay informed, stay safe, and don't ignore those letters from the manufacturer. Your wheels should stay where they belong: on your car, not rolling down the road behind you.