Mercedes' latest MBUX infotainment system, also known as Mercedes-Benz User Experience, is the most advanced MBUX system yet. It brings tons high-tech features to the latest S-Class sedan, as well as the all-new EQS electric flagship. However, driver distraction is a major concern with huge displays like MBUX, and the concern has now grown worse, not only for Mercedes, but also Tesla. A recall released by Mercedes has announced a potentially dangerous flaw in the MBUX system.
The system is programmed to block off certain apps while the vehicle is in motion. These apps include TV, internet display, and the digital owner's manual. All of them would pose a threat to driver attention if they were ever activated. That is where the recall comes in. Mercedes has found out that MBUX has failed to lock those distracting apps, due to an issue with the communication of the Mercedes me connections with the vehicle and its backend server. This puts the driver and those around them in potential danger, as driver distraction increases the risk of an accident. Even worse, drivers won't receive notifications from the vehicle regrading the issue.
An NHTSA document tells us that 227 vehicles are involved in the recall, and all of them are thought to have this flaw. Those 227 vehicles include 2021 S500/S580 and 2022 EQS450/EQS580 models built between December 8, 2020 and October 13, 2021. The document says that "the recall population was determined through internal documentation of vehicles that have received in incorrect configuration." It also reassures S-Class and EQS owners not involved in the recall, as "vehicles outside of the recall population have the correct configuration."
So, how will Mercedes fix this problem? Dealers were notified of the recall on December 6, and the automaker is working with the NHTSA to release a notice to owners. To address the problem, Mercedes-Benz will "update the configuration on the MBAG server," which is connected to the 227 vehicles that are affected. It will also correct the Mercedes backend server without any lists to the dealer. This likely means that an over-the-air update is in the works for affected models.
Source: NHTSA
Images: Mercedes
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