Daimler AG recalls over 500K Mercedes-Benz units over emission issues

KUALA LUMPUR: Daimler AG, the German automotive corporation has issued a recall for the OM651 engine equipped models. The recall is the consequence of the Daimler’s diesel emissions cheating case (Euro 5 emission standards) for which the multinational corporation got slapped with an RM4 billion fine. However, as for now, the carmaker has not revealed the number of models it will be recalling, but it hints it can be “medium six-figure.”

Reportedly, 684,000 units were sold by Mercedes-Benz that didn't comply with the nitrogen oxide emissions rules. It also includes over 250K units of Sprinter van. The model of Sprinter van is of previous-generation and the production of these models ended in the year 2016.

In 2018, the German transport minister warned Daimler to sue if Mercedes-Benz was found cheating emission rules. An investigation was started earlier in 2019, which revealed the vehicles are not fully complied with the regulation. Daimler accepted the decision and took a decision to not contest against the verdict. As a conclusion, it got fined with an RM4 billion (870 million euros) fine by German prosecutors.

KBA, Germany’s road traffic regulator has ordered Daimler AG to issue the recall. The circular states that “Mercedes-Benz customers will be notified in writing over further actions if their vehicle is subject to the recall and software update can be installed.”

According to KBA, the Sprinter van contains illegitimate engine management software and that’s why it should also be included. The KBA proceedings are not yet finished and therefore, more orders cannot be carried out for the moment. However, Daimler has stated that the proceedings would not further hamper the earnings.

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