Mercedes Asks G 63 4×4 Squared Owners to Stop Driving Their Vehicles

The G63 4×4 Squared is arguably the flagship model, and one of the most beloved, of the entire  lineup of Mercedes-Benz G Class SUVs. Rare, luxurious, and ultra-capable, they embody all of the traits that have made the G Class the premier luxury SUV in the world, and then some. While the 4×4 Squared boasts all of the luxury touches and exclusivity that you’d expect from a G Wagon costing several hundred thousand dollars, the Squared also boasts off-road capability beyond nearly any other vehicle on the road. Combined with a reputation for tremendous reliability in the most adverse climates, the G 63 4×4 Squared is a shining example of all that German engineering can accomplish.

However, as with any other vehicle, now that all 278 of these trucks have been on the road for some time, a mechanical issue necessitating a recall has been identified. Unfortunately, this goes beyond a simple, routine recall, and Mercedes has notified all 278 lucky owners that they need to stop driving their 4×4 Squareds immediately.

Cracked Differential Housings

The cause of the recall stems from a potential for cracking in the rear axle differential housing, which is a crucial part of the portal axles, one of the biggest talking points of the 4×4 Squared. Oftentimes, this issue may appear to be a simple oil leak from the differential housing, but if a crack does develop, Mercedes says that the risk of an accident from a catastrophic failure of this part is high. If the crack forms and the housing completely fails, the rear wheels would stop receiving power, which could also result in losing the ability to steer the car.

Thankfully, no real-world incidents or failures have been reported stemming from this problem. Because of this potential for damage to the vehicle (let alone the risks involved to the passengers), owners are being highly encouraged to return their 4×4 Squared to a Mercedes dealership – preferably through their complimentary towing service set up for this issue. In addition to the tow, Mercedes will also provide no-cost loaner vehicles to those affected.

A Simple Fix

While at the dealer, Mercedes technicians will inspect and replace the entire rear axle assembly, if needed. Just like the towing and rental car services, and just like all other automotive recalls, this repair is performed free of charge. Recalls are a normal part of life for any automotive manufacturer, and this issue with the 4×4 Squared shouldn’t be deemed to be an indictment of the capability or reliability of the vehicle itself.

These types of recalls are known as “stop-drives,” and are one of the most serious types of recalls a manufacturer can issue. Given the serious nature of a failure of this type and considering just how valuable each one of these 4×4 Squared has become on the secondary market, we’d think that most owners will move quickly to have this issue rectified as soon as possible.