Mercedes-Benz has expanded an ongoing safety recall in the United States to include more than 30,000 luxury vehicles. The broadened campaign targets potential front brake hose leaks that could reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under recall number 26V638, the expanded campaign covers 30,078 vehicles. The affected population includes six specific variants of the 223-generation S-Class built between February 2, 2021, and November 28, 2024. Among the models included in the recall are the S 500 4MATIC, S 580 4MATIC, and S 580 e 4MATIC, as well as ultra-luxury and high-performance editions such as the Mercedes-Maybach S 580, Mercedes-Maybach S 680, and Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance.
Details of the Expanded Safety Campaign
The German automaker decided to broaden the recall following a review of test results and field reports. After initially attributing potential issues to environmental conditions, subsequent evaluations prompted the company to reassess vehicles built prior to the introduction of a modified front brake hose design in series production. Mercedes-Benz formally decided to expand the scope on September 25, 2026, estimating that the defect may be present in all vehicles within the targeted manufacturing window.
Within the newly added vehicle population, the automaker has logged three U.S. field reports related to the condition, occurring in April, May, and August 2026. However, company officials confirmed that they are not aware of any crashes, injuries, or property damage tied directly to the defect in these cars.
Dealer Notification and Repair Process
Authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships were notified of the expanded recall procedures on October 9, 2026. Official notification letters sent directly to vehicle owners are scheduled to be mailed out starting November 27, 2026.
As part of the remedy program, dealership technicians will replace both front-axle brake hoses free of charge. Newer models manufactured with an optimized hose design starting November 29, 2024, are not impacted by the defect.
Owners who wish to check whether their specific vehicle is included in the campaign can contact Mercedes-Benz USA customer service or search their vehicle identification number (VIN) using NHTSA’s online recall lookup tool. Automotive safety experts advise motorists experiencing a sinking brake pedal, a red brake fluid warning light, or visible fluid leakage near a front wheel to treat the issue immediately and avoid driving until an inspection is performed.
