Automotive giant Mercedes-Benz has announced a global recall of approximately 223,000 commercial vehicles due to a serious airbag issue detected in its Viano and Vito models. The decision, confirmed by the German Federal Motor Vehicles Authority, stated that the airbag gas generator could explode in the event of a crash, potentially causing serious injuries to occupants.

Mercedes Vito and Viano Recalled

The recall covers Mercedes-Benz Viano and Vito van models manufactured between December 2002 and February 2006. According to KBA data, 60,246 of the recalled vehicles are located in Germany, the brand’s home country.

The source of the problem is the gas generator that inflates the airbags. According to German media reports, these components, especially those that wear out, pose a risk of unexpected explosion during a crash. In this case, not only does the airbag lose its protective function, but metal fragments from the exploding generator can create shrapnel, potentially posing a life-threatening effect for the driver and passengers.

Mercedes-Benz is expected to contact affected vehicle owners in the coming days and direct them to service points for free repairs and parts replacement.