Zimbabwe’s CPC has issued an urgent safety notice regarding select Mercedes-Benz GLE (167) vehicles after receiving reports of a potentially dangerous electrical system malfunction.
According to automotive safety experts, the processor within the high-voltage starter generator’s control unit may experience intermittent overloads. This could trigger false error detection, potentially causing the system to unexpectedly shut down while driving.
“When this occurs, drivers might experience sudden loss of propulsion power without prior warning,” explained a CPC spokesperson. “Such unexpected power loss significantly increases accident risks, especially at higher speeds or in heavy traffic conditions.”
Affected Vehicles and Regional Impact
Production records indicate the affected GLE (167) models were manufactured between 2022 and 2025. While 54 vehicles have been confirmed in South Africa, authorities suspect additional units may have been exported to neighboring countries including:
- Botswana
- Lesotho
- Namibia
- Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
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Recommended Action for Owners
Mercedes-Benz has authorised dealerships to inspect and repair affected vehicles at no cost to consumers. Vehicle owners are strongly advised to:
- Contact their nearest authorised Mercedes-Benz service centre immediately
- Schedule a diagnostic check for their vehicle
- Follow all recommended safety procedures until repairs are completed
Regional Consumer Protection Measures
The COMESA Competition Commission has pledged to monitor the situation closely and collaborate with national authorities across member states to ensure consumer safety. This incident highlights the importance of regional cooperation in product safety matters.
“Consumer safety remains our top priority,” stated a CCC representative. “We remind all consumers of their fundamental right to safe, quality products under COMESA regulations.”
Broader Implications for Vehicle Safety
This recall serves as an important reminder about vehicle safety standards and manufacturer responsibilities. Automotive experts recommend that consumers:
- Regularly check for manufacturer recalls
- Register their vehicles with manufacturers to receive direct notifications
- Address all safety notices promptly
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As automotive technology advances, this case underscores the need for robust quality control systems and transparent communication between manufacturers, regulators, and consumers.
