Mercedes-Benz begins recalling 4,572 imported cars in China

German carmaker Mercedes-Benz has begun recalling 4,572 imported cars in China over problems with the electronic stability program, according to China's quality watchdog.

The affected vehicles are 889 imported Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG models which were manufactured between June 11, 2014 and May 31, 2016, as well as 3,683 imported Mercedes-Benz G-Class vehicles which were made between September 2, 2015 and September 11, 2017, according to a statement from the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine. The recall took effect from December 26 last year.

The problem with the 889 affected Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG vehicles lies in the electronic stability program which lacks the ability to recognize and control peak-torque under extreme conditions. This may cause the car to lose power and increase the risk of vehicle collision, the statement said.

For 3,683 Mercedes-Benz G-class vehicles, the telecommunication system of the electronic stability program may encounter errors under some conditions. The poor telecommunication may require a driver to brake more in order to stop the vehicle. This will lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increase the risk of a traffic crash, according to the statement.

The carmaker said it will upgrade the software of the electronic stability program in the affected vehicles to rectify the  defects. It added that it will upgrade the software in cars which have not been sold yet.

Mercedes-Benz will inform owners of the affected vehicles via registered mail. Car owners could contact the company at 400-818-1188 to get information about the recall.