Mercedes EQB EV Recall: Avoid Battery Fires by Limiting Charge to 80%

Early-model Mercedes EQB owners advised to stop charging to full capacity due to fire risk

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:09am

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An abstract, sweeping color photograph depicting a Mercedes EQB electric SUV in motion, its body blurred into vibrant streaks of color that convey a sense of speed and modern engineering.As Mercedes grapples with a recall over battery fire risks in its EQB electric SUV, this abstract image captures the vehicle's dynamic motion and the evolving challenges of EV ownership.Kansas City Today

Mercedes has issued a recall for 169 EQB electric vehicles, citing the risk of a battery fire due to a potential short circuit. Owners are being advised to limit their charging to 80% capacity to avoid a 'thermal event' that could lead to a catastrophic battery fire. The recall requires a software update at a Mercedes service center, reducing the real-world range of the affected EQB 350 models to around 150 miles.

Why it matters

This recall highlights the evolving challenges of electric vehicle ownership, as automakers grapple with battery safety and longevity issues. It raises questions about the broader state of EV battery technology and whether manufacturers are doing enough to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicles.

The details

The recall affects a relatively small number of MY22-23 EQB vehicles, but the implications are significant. Mercedes is not replacing the batteries in these cars, instead offering a software update that limits charging to 80% capacity. This reduces the range of the EQB 350 model from 227 EPA miles to around 180 miles, with an additional safety buffer leaving drivers with a potential real-world range of just 150 miles.

  • The recall was issued on April 10, 2026.

The players

Mercedes

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

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What they’re saying

“We must take this issue seriously and ensure the safety of our customers. The software update is a necessary step to prevent any potential for a battery fire.”

— Mercedes spokesperson

What’s next

Mercedes claims that batteries in later EQB models are more robust and not affected by this recall. Owners of the affected vehicles will need to schedule a service appointment to have the software update installed.

The takeaway

This recall highlights the ongoing challenges of EV battery technology and the need for automakers to prioritize safety and reliability as the electric vehicle market continues to grow. It also raises questions about the environmental impact of frequent software updates and potential battery replacements.