Recall 18V457 affects 20 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 vehicles for incorrect reverse speed limitation software. Repair is free at any franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Mercedes-Benz is recalling 20 2017 AMG G65 vehicles because incorrect reverse speed limitation software can let the vehicle become unstable during abrupt steering in reverse above 16 MPH. An unstable vehicle in reverse can roll over and increase the risk of injury, and Mercedes-Benz dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The engine control unit on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 is the computer that manages engine behavior and speed-control functions. Its software includes a reverse speed limit, which is meant to keep the vehicle from backing up faster than the programmed limit. That limit matters because steering inputs have a different effect when the vehicle is moving backward.
On affected AMG G65 vehicles, the ECU software installed during production has the wrong reverse speed limitation. The issue traces to a documentation error in the development process, and some vehicles left production without the corrected software update. If the vehicle is driven in reverse above 16 MPH and the driver makes an abrupt steering change, the vehicle can become unstable.
There is no warning sign before failure. The driver will not get a dashboard message, sound, or other advance warning that the reverse speed limit software is wrong.
Who's affected?
The same vehicles appear under both listed components: electrical system software and vehicle speed control.
| 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 | electrical system software |
|---|---|
| 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 | Vehicle speed control |
| Units affected | 20 |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific SUV is included.
What's the safety risk?
An unstable vehicle in reverse gear can lead to a rollover and increase injury risk. There is no warning sign before the failure, so use extra care when backing up and schedule the ECU software update soon. Repair is free at any franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer to schedule the free ECU software update that corrects the reverse speed limitation.
- Bring the recall notice if Mercedes-Benz mailed one. If not, reference recall number 18V457 when you call.
- Avoid abrupt steering inputs while reversing until the software update is complete, especially above 16 MPH.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Mercedes-Benz technician updates the engine control unit software so the reverse speed limitation works with the correct calibration. The software update and labor are free under the recall. Repairs already paid before the owner notice are handled through the new vehicle warranty, not through a separate reimbursement program, because all involved vehicles remain covered. Ask the service desk how warranty coverage applies if you have prior repair paperwork.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| July 10, 2018 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| July 20, 2018 | Dealer notification began |
| July 20, 2018 | Dealer notification ended |
| July 27, 2018 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| August 3, 2018 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 18V457?
Recall 18V457 covers 20 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 vehicles with incorrect reverse speed limitation software. Abrupt steering changes while reversing above 16 MPH can make the vehicle unstable and lead to rollover risk. Mercedes-Benz dealers will update the engine control unit software for free.
What should I do if my 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific vehicle is included in recall 18V457. If it is, contact a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer to schedule the engine control unit software update. Reference recall number 18V457 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost, and Mercedes-Benz will update the engine control unit software free of charge at any franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
What is the safety risk in recall 18V457?
The safety risk is vehicle instability while reversing. If the AMG G65 exceeds 16 MPH in reverse and the driver makes an abrupt steering change, the vehicle can become unstable and roll over, increasing the risk of injury.
What if I bought my Mercedes-Benz AMG G65 used?
The free repair still applies. Recall coverage follows the vehicle, not the first owner. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific AMG G65 is included, then call a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer and reference recall number 18V457.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/18V457000 |
|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz customer service | 1-800-367-6372 |
| NHTSA recall # | 18V457 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 18V457000 |
Source documents
-
Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF) - Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 25, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →