Mercedes-Benz has issued an urgent recall for its flagship AMG GT 73 E Performance hybrid supercar following reports of potential fire hazards linked to the vehicle’s high-voltage battery system. The recall affects approximately 2,847 vehicles globally, with 1,200 units in the United States facing immediate service requirements.
Critical Battery System Flaw Discovered
The recall centers around a manufacturing defect in the battery cooling system that could lead to coolant leaks onto high-voltage components. According to NHTSA documents filed this week, the leaked coolant can create electrical shorts, potentially resulting in smoke, fire, or complete vehicle shutdown while driving.
Mercedes-AMG discovered the issue during routine quality testing at their Affalterbach facility. Initial investigations revealed that certain battery pack assemblies manufactured between March 2023 and September 2024 contain improperly sealed cooling lines.
Affected Model Years and VIN Ranges
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 E Performance recall specifically targets:
- 2024 Model Year: VIN range WDD1973XXX000001 to WDD1973XXX002847
- All markets including US, UK, Germany, and select Asian markets
- Vehicles delivered between June 2023 and November 2024
Owner Response and Dealer Actions
Mercedes-Benz USA has contacted all affected owners via certified mail and phone calls. The automaker is offering free towing to authorized AMG service centers and providing loaner vehicles during the repair process, which typically takes 3-5 business days.
The fix involves replacing the entire battery cooling module and updating the vehicle’s software to include enhanced monitoring systems that can detect coolant leaks before they become dangerous.
No Injuries Reported Yet
While no injuries have been reported, Mercedes documented three incidents of smoke generation in European markets. Two occurred during highway driving, while one happened during charging at a customer’s residence.
“Customer safety remains our absolute priority,” stated Mercedes-AMG spokesperson Christina Mueller. “We’re working around the clock to ensure every affected vehicle receives the necessary repairs as quickly as possible.”
Impact on AMG’s Electrification Strategy
This recall represents a significant setback for Mercedes-AMG’s hybrid performance ambitions. The GT 73 E Performance, with its 831 horsepower output combining a twin-turbo V8 with electric assistance, was positioned as the brand’s technological flagship.
The recall cost is estimated at $47 million, but the reputation damage could prove more expensive. AMG had planned to expand the E Performance hybrid system across its entire lineup by 2026.
Production Temporarily Halted
Mercedes has temporarily suspended GT 73 E Performance production at its Sindelfingen plant while engineers implement design changes to prevent future occurrences. Production is expected to resume in February 2025 with revised battery assembly procedures.
What Owners Should Do
Current AMG GT 73 E Performance owners should immediately check their VIN against the recall database and avoid high-performance driving until repairs are completed. Mercedes recommends against using the vehicle’s Race+ mode or Track driving programs until the recall service is performed.
The automaker has established a dedicated hotline (1-800-FOR-MERCEDES) for affected customers and is expediting parts delivery to minimize downtime.
This recall underscores the complex challenges automakers face when integrating high-performance hybrid systems. As the industry pushes toward electrification, ensuring the safety and reliability of these advanced powertrains becomes paramount to maintaining consumer confidence in performance hybrid technology.
