Mercedes Issues Recall Over Internal Computer Server Which Allows Gaming While Driving

A few days after reports surfaced that Tesla allowed its drivers to play video games on the dashboard touch screen while the vehicle was moving, Mercedes-Benz issued a U.S. recall for the same issue. Documents show that the issue affected 227 vehicles and has already been fixed by updating an internal computer server. The same documents revealed that on some 2021 and 2022 EQS and S model vehicles, drivers could access television programs and the Internet while traveling. The automaker said it intended to disable the features while the cars are moving, but the recalled vehicles had an incorrect computer configuration.

“We are glad to see Mercedes recall and repair this unreasonable risk to everyone on the road but would urge NHTSA [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration] to move quickly to ensure that all screen-based entertainment distractions are disabled when vehicles are in motion, no matter the manufacturer,” said Jason Levine, Executive Director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety.

Levine’s quote takes a dig at Tesla, who surprisingly has not yet recalled any of their vehicles, raising questions about whether federal auto traffic standards are being applied equally by the NHTSA. NHTSA didn’t directly address the double standard or Tesla but said in a statement that the Federal Vehicle Safety Act prohibits manufacturers from selling vehicles that pose an unreasonable risk to safety.

The agency said it’s assessing how automakers identify and safeguard against distraction hazards due to faults, misuse, or intended use of infotainment screens. NHTSA said it regularly communicates with automakers about concerns, as well as reviewing consumer complaints and a “massive amount of data that companies are required to submit on a regular basis, looking for evidence of safety risks. If the data show that such a risk may exist, NHTSA will act immediately,” the agency said.

(All information was provided by USA Today)