- Recall Details and Causes
- Background on the EQC Model and Previous Issues
- Importance of Battery-Related Recalls
- Impact of Recalls on Mercedes’ Reputation in China
- Advice for Mercedes Electric Vehicle Owners in China
- The Future of Electric Vehicles: Necessity of Quality and Safety
Mercedes Recalls 13,447 Electric Vehicles in China Due to Battery Overheating Risk
Mercedes-Benz, through its local partner Beijing Benz, has announced a recall of 13,447 locally produced EQC electric vehicles in China, effective from September 27, 2025. The recall is due to a defect in the battery management system software design, which may lead to thermal runaway in the battery under extreme conditions, potentially causing fires and posing safety risks to occupants.
Recall Details and Causes
The recall covers EQC vehicles manufactured between November 30, 2018, and September 17, 2022, according to the announcement posted on the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) website. The announcement explained that the defect in the battery management software could cause abnormal battery temperature increases, leading to internal damage or battery ignition.
This recall is part of SAMR’s ongoing product defect investigations. Beijing Benz will upgrade the battery management software free of charge at authorized dealers for affected vehicles. Until the recall procedures are completed, the company advises users to limit the battery charge to 80% as a precautionary measure.
Background on the EQC Model and Previous Issues
The EQC is Mercedes-Benz’s first locally produced electric vehicle in China, launched in November 2019. In early 2022, Mercedes faced a wave of complaints from EQC owners in China regarding motor issues. This is not the first time Mercedes has recalled electric vehicles in China due to battery-related problems.
In March 2025, Mercedes recalled 12,308 EQA and EQB vehicles due to manufacturing defects in high-voltage batteries, which increased the risk of internal short circuits within battery cells, potentially causing fires.
Importance of Battery-Related Recalls
High-voltage batteries are among the most sensitive components in electric vehicles. Any defect in system design or manufacturing process can lead to serious problems such as thermal runaway—a chemical reaction producing excessive heat that can ignite the battery.
Regulatory bodies in China, such as SAMR, closely monitor these issues and regularly issue recall notices to ensure user safety and minimize potential risks.
Impact of Recalls on Mercedes’ Reputation in China
These repeated recalls come at a time when Mercedes faces fierce competition in China’s electric vehicle market, competing with local and global brands offering advanced EVs at competitive prices. Such recalls may affect consumer confidence in the German brand, especially as awareness of battery safety and quality grows.
However, Mercedes emphasizes its full commitment to addressing these issues promptly and transparently, providing full support to affected customers, reflecting its dedication to maintaining its market position.
Advice for Mercedes Electric Vehicle Owners in China
Follow official announcements: Owners of EQC, EQA, and EQB models should stay updated with official notices from Beijing Benz and SAMR.
Limit battery charge: It is recommended to reduce the battery charge limit to 80% until the battery management software is updated.
Visit authorized dealers: When a recall is announced, owners should promptly visit authorized dealers to receive free software upgrades.
Do not ignore warning signs: Such as unusual vehicle temperature rises, strange odors, or abnormal battery behavior.
The Future of Electric Vehicles: Necessity of Quality and Safety
As electric vehicle adoption grows globally, ensuring battery quality and management systems is crucial to the technology’s success. Manufacturers must continuously invest in advanced safety systems and precise manufacturing processes to avoid issues that could compromise user safety and market trust.
Mercedes’ recall of 13,447 EQC vehicles in China due to battery thermal runaway risk highlights challenges facing the electric vehicle industry, especially regarding battery safety. While such recalls may impact brand image, they also demonstrate the company’s commitment to safety and transparency, helping to build long-term customer trust.
