Mercedes-Benz has announced a major recall in the United States involving 11,895 electric EQB crossovers due to a serious issue with their high-voltage batteries. The problem could, in rare cases, increase the risk of a battery fire, prompting the automaker to replace the affected batteries at no cost to owners.
The recall affects certain 2023 and 2024 model-year examples of the Mercedes-Benz EQB, one of Mercedes’ compact electric SUVs.
What’s the Problem?
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some battery cells inside the EQB’s high-voltage battery pack may short internally. If this happens, it can lead to excessive heat buildup, also known as a thermal event, which increases the risk of a fire.
Mercedes-Benz says the issue is linked to production deviations during an early manufacturing period at the battery supplier level. The problem becomes more likely when:
- The battery is charged to a high state of charge
- There is external damage to the battery
- Certain charging infrastructure conditions are present
Battery Supplier and Manufacturing Background
The battery cells in question were supplied by Farasis Energy, a China-based battery manufacturer. While this may surprise some buyers, Mercedes-Benz has had a strategic partnership with Farasis Energy since 2020.
Although EQB vehicles for the U.S. market are assembled in Hungary, the battery cells are:
- Manufactured in China
- Shipped to Europe for battery pack assembly
- Then sent to vehicle assembly plants
Mercedes says Farasis Energy provides a stable supply of battery cells at competitive costs, which is why the partnership exists.
Which EQB Models Are Affected?
The recall covers EQB vehicles built between December 13, 2021, and May 9, 2024, including the following variants:
- EQB 250+ (front-wheel drive): 3,674 vehicles
- EQB 300 4MATIC (all-wheel drive): 6,513 vehicles
- EQB 350 4MATIC (performance model): 1,708 vehicles
In total, 11,895 vehicles are included in this recall.
Mercedes confirms that EQBs built after July 31, 2024, are not affected, as production process improvements were introduced earlier in 2024.
What Should Owners Do Right Now?
Until replacement batteries are available, Mercedes-Benz is advising affected owners to take the following precautionary steps:
- Park the vehicle outdoors whenever possible
- Limit battery charging to a maximum of 80%
These are temporary safety measures meant to reduce risk until repairs are completed.
What Is the Fix?
Mercedes-Benz dealers will replace the entire high-voltage battery pack in affected vehicles free of charge. This is the same approach used in a previous EQB-related battery recall.
Owner notifications will happen in two stages:
- Interim notification letters sent by February 27, 2026
- Final repair notifications expected by April 3, 2026
In the meantime, owners can check their vehicle’s VIN on Mercedes-Benz’s official website to see if their EQB is included in the recall. See more Photos
EQB Overview and Market Position
The EQB is a compact electric SUV that offers:
- Seating for up to seven passengers
- A 70.5 kWh battery
- Up to 250 miles (402 km) of EPA-rated range
- 0–60 mph in about 5.8 seconds (depending on trim)
U.S. pricing currently starts at:
- $53,050 for the EQB 250+ (front-wheel drive)
- $57,200 for the EQB 300 4MATIC
- $60,850 for the EQB 350 4MATIC
However, the most powerful EQB 350 4MATIC delivers just 206 miles (332 km) of range, making it significantly less competitive when compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y, which offers more range at a lower price.
What’s Next for the EQB?
Mercedes-Benz has already confirmed that the EQB will eventually be replaced by an all-new GLB with EQ Technology, signaling a shift toward newer electric platforms and improved battery systems.
Final Thoughts
While recalls involving high-voltage batteries always raise concern, Mercedes-Benz is taking a proactive approach by replacing the batteries entirely and issuing clear safety guidance. Owners are encouraged to follow interim instructions and watch for official notification letters in the coming weeks.
If you own an EQB, checking your VIN now could help you stay ahead of the recall process.
FAQs
Why is my electric SUV being recalled?
Some electric SUVs are being recalled because the high-voltage battery inside can fail. In rare cases, this problem can cause too much heat, which increases the risk of a fire.
Is the battery recall dangerous?
The risk is low, but it is serious enough that owners are being warned. If the battery overheats, it could lead to a fire, especially when the battery is fully charged.
Which electric SUV models are affected by this recall?
The recall affects certain 2023 and 2024 models of the Mercedes-Benz EQB sold in the United States. Not every vehicle is affected, so checking the VIN is important.
How do I check if my car is part of the recall?
You can check by entering your VIN number on the manufacturer’s official website or by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall website.
Will the battery be replaced for free?
Yes. If your vehicle is affected, the entire high-voltage battery will be replaced at no cost. You do not have to pay for parts or labor.
When will recall repair letters be sent?
Owners will start receiving official recall letters by late February 2026, with full repair instructions expected by early April 2026.
Are newer models safe from this battery problem?
Yes. Vehicles built after July 31, 2024, are not affected. The battery supplier made production improvements that fixed the issue.
Does this mean electric cars are not safe?
No. Electric cars go through strict safety checks, and recalls are part of improving safety. When a problem is found, replacing parts early helps prevent accidents and keeps drivers safe.
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