2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV 450 4MATIC

My name is [XXX] , While driving around 60 mph on the hwy the vehicle suddently hit the brake coming to a complete stop, with no cars in close proximity fearing that vehicle behind would hit me i steped on the accelerator and was able to drive to safety with my [XXX] daughter and [XXX] classmate that was riding to scholl with us. vehicle was towed to the dealer(mercedes-benz of sannta Rosa CA) where they inspected it. no warning lamps INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11696808

Incident

Oct 28, 2025

I am writing to formally document and express serious concern regarding a lighting issue with my Mercedes-Benz EQS, which presents a significant safety hazard for both me and my family. Since December 2024, I have been facing a recurring problem with a dark shadow or image that appears while driving, particularly noticeable after dark. This shadow often resembles the shape of a person and unexpectedly enlarges or shifts, creating an alarming visual that demands immediate attention while driving. On numerous occasions, I have instinctively applied the brakes suddenly, believing that someone was standing in front of the vehicle, only to realize it was a visual distortion. This is not only disturbing but also dangerous, especially when driving at higher speeds or in traffic. Due to this ongoing issue, I have been unable to use the vehicle for commuting to work and have avoided driving it during family outings after dark. It has affected my daily routine, my family’s comfort, and our overall trust in the vehicle's safety. In the past few months, I have visited multiple authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships—including San Jose, Stevens Creek, and Fremont—all of which confirmed the presence of the shadow issue. I have also shared the concern with a Mercedes Product Manager, and the email correspondence is attached for reference. Despite their acknowledgment of the issue, all parties have stated that this visual distortion is "as per design" and that they are unable to offer a solution. I was further informed that this issue exists across all Mercedes-Benz EQS vehicles, and therefore, nothing can be done. This is unacceptable. A known design flaw that causes visual confusion and repeated panic braking should not be dismissed. The fact that multiple dealers acknowledge the problem but claim it cannot be fixed raises serious questions about product safety and accountability. Mercedez is not helping at all This is a clear safety defect and needs to be addressed seriously.

NHTSA ID

11649760

Incident

Mar 2, 2024

Complaint When switching the front passenger display on and off, sporadic images may be shown that are similar to stains on the display. This complaint need not be a permanent one, it may disappear again on its own. Attachments 1648459315482 (1).jpg 1648459315528.jpg Cause Implausible video transfer from head unit during start and switch‑off sequence. These images (artifacts) are of a purely cosmetic nature only and they do not impair the function. Remedy Software update of MBUX (A26/17) to software release E316.5 or higher.

Complaint When switching the front passenger display on and off, sporadic images may be shown that are similar to stains on the display. This complaint need not be a permanent one, it may disappear again on its own. Cause Implausible video transfer from head unit during start and switch‑off sequence. These images (artifacts) are of a purely cosmetic nature only and they do not impair the function. Remedy Software update of MBUX (A26/17) to software release E316.5 or higher.

Issue A software update will be performed that provides enhancements to the robustness and system stability of the communication module. The update is free of charge and runs in the background, which takes about 8 minutes to install. During this time, the vehicle can be driven without any restrictions, and the new software will be active with the next ignition cycle. Remedy MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customer’s vehicle free of charge and do not require a dealer visit.

Complaint Slight creaking noises when steering. Cause Noises may come from one or more sleeves of the horn contact plate. Remedy Remove the horn contact plate and check the sleeves for noise; see attached video. If necessary, apply lubricant to the sleeves.

A software update will be performed that provides enhancements to the robustness and system stability of the communication module. The update is free of charge and runs in the background, which takes about 8 minutes to install. During this time, the vehicle can be driven without any restrictions, and the new software will be active with the next ignition cycle. Remedy MBUSA will conduct an OTA service campaign. Remote software updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the customer’s vehicle free of charge and do not require a dealer visit.

Complaint Repeat workshop visit for vehicle vibration while braking from 60MPH. NOTE: Although the symptom is similar to a tire or wheel vibration, it is usually readily noticeable that it is distinctly different if it happens at all times or only while braking. Cause Although the cause of the vibration is most likely due to excessive lateral runout on the rotor or hub/wheel bearing, the system as a whole needs to be checked for other possible contributors. 1. Prior collision damage. 2. Excessive vehicle sitting times without rotating components. 3. Wheel bearing/hub lateral runout. 4. Wheel mating interface has been overtightened (did not follow WIS torque procedures). 5. Mating interfaces have been excessively modified (painted, gouged, bent, etc...). Remedy Read through the entire attached worksheet prior to performing. After performing, please review the final page and perform work accordingly. NOTE: This document is not pre‑authorization or otherwise dealing with warranty. This is intended for diagnostic purposes only. If there are any questions on how to proceed OR The work sheet has been performed and the vehicle has returned with the same concern. Please perform the measurements as seen in the worksheet again and open a TIPS case to the Body, Chassis, and Entertainment team.