2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA recalled for eCall programming issue, over the air update available

Mercedes-Benz Australia has issued a recall for 571 examples of the Model Year 2019 CLA range (C118 generation), due to a programming issue with the eCall emergency call system.

The affected vehicles were sold in Australia between 3 April 2019 and 1 September 2020.

The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says “the eCall system is incorrectly programmed, in the event of an emergency it would not be possible for the vehicle occupants to connect with emergency services, either manually or automatically.”

“As a consequence, emergency vehicles may not be directed to the affected vehicle or may be delayed. This could increase the risk of death if a serious injury has occurred.”

A full list of vehicle identification numbers for the 571 cars involved in the recall can be found here.

Mercedes-Benz will contact affected owners in writing about an upcoming software update that will be provided 'over the air' (OTA), without the need for a visit to a dealership, believed to be the first of its kind for Mercedes-Benz in Australia.

Software will be automatically updated unless owners have objected to receiving an update. If an objection is provided, a visit to a dealership for a manual update will be required.

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