Mercedes-Benz has issued a safety recall for more than 32,000 flagship luxury sedans across North America due to a defective front brake hose that can deteriorate, crack and rupture over time. That, in turn, can lead to reduced stopping power.
The campaign affects 30,064 vehicles in the United States (2022–2025 model years) and 2,160 vehicles in Canada (2021–2025 model years). Covered models include standard S-Class variants, high-performance Mercedes-AMG sedans and ultra-luxury Mercedes-Maybach editions built between February 2021 and November 28, 2024.
The problem
According to documentation filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Transport Canada, a combination of intense engine bay heat and mechanical flex stress gradually weakens the rubber material feeding the front brake calipers.
The primary danger is that the defect develops silently without prior indication. Deterioration can then happen quickly as fluid leaks or hose ruptures might occur unexpectedly, lengthening stopping distances and progressively reducing braking capacity.
The red dashboard brake warning light typically illuminates only after a fluid leak has already begun, so it will arrive too late to warn motorists of a problem
Neither Mercedes-Benz, NHTSA nor Transport Canada have received reports of crashes, injuries, or property damage linked to the defect.
The solution
The automaker resolved the issue on the assembly line on November 28, 2024, by switching to a completely redesigned brake hose.
As for those cars out in circulation with the old hose, authorized dealerships will replace the front brake hoses free of charge. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed beginning November 27, 2026.