In 2019, more than 53 million vehicles were affected by safety recalls. Just five years earlier and prior, recalls ranged from 10 to 30 million annually. 

While recalls sometimes seem minor, for fleets, any automotive defect is one too many. Here are two recent safety recalls from two different manufacturers that fleet operators need to know about: 

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC is recalling an estimated 5,680 2020 GLB250 vehicles because water may enter through the wheel well area into the front occupant foot wells. This situation could potentially damage certain electrical components, which may result in the instrument cluster going blank, an engine stall while driving, or the vehicle may not start.

Both a blank instrument cluster display and an engine stall can increase the likelihood of a collision. 

To fix the problem, dealers will seal the vehicle body in the wheel well area and inspect the front foot wells for water intrusion, repairing as necessary, at no cost to owners. 

Owner notification letters will be mailed July 27, 2021. Owners can reach MBUSA customer service at (800) 367-6372.

Nissan

Nissan North America, Inc. is recalling about 14,276 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles because the front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.

With this scenario, the steering knuckle or rear axle could deform if the vehicle hit a curb or bump or experienced another kind of impact. That, in turn, could lead to a loss of steering or possible wheel separation—both of which increase the risk of a crash. 

To remedy the matter, dealers will inspect and replace the front steering knuckle and rear axle housing, as needed, free of charge. 

Owner notification letters will be mailed July 23, 2021. Nissan owners may contact customer service at (800) 867-7669. INFINITI owners can reach customer service at (800) 662-6200.