Mercedes-Benz recalls about 261,000 SUVs worldwide for software update

The sun rises behind a Mercedes star on the Mercedes-Benz plant. Sebastian Gollnow/dpa
The sun rises behind a Mercedes star on the Mercedes-Benz plant. Sebastian Gollnow/dpa

German automaker Mercedes-Benz has recalled around 261,000 vehicles worldwide due to a software issue affecting two different SUV models.

Mercedes-Benz's GLE and GLS models from 2018 to 2023 are affected, according to a recall published in the database of Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) on Wednesday.

Almost 4,400 vehicles are affected in Germany.

According to the recall, a software error in the transmission control unit could lead to engine failure, increasing the risk of accidents.

A Mercedes-Benz spokesman told dpa that the issue had no impact on the vehicle's steering and braking systems. He said the company is not aware of any damage to property or personal injury resulting from the issue.

The Mercedes-Benz spokesman said the software in the affected vehicles will be updated as a precautionary measure.

The recall is the second in the past week affecting Mercedes GLE and GLS SUVs.

Last week, German regulators announced a recall of around 341,000 GLE and GLS vehicles worldwide due to a possible fire hazard.