Mercedes-Benz announced a recall on Friday of 324,000 vehicles due to a water-infusion defect that could cause the cars to stall out.

The recall concerns Mercedes ML and GLE sport-utility vehicles for model years 2012-2020.

Mercedes said it has been investigating the issue since 2018. The design flaw can cause water to build up in a vehicles's spare wheel well, which can set off a device that causes the engine to shut down.

"Consequently, the fuel supply to the engine could be interrupted, which would lead to a loss of propulsion without warning," the recall notice said. "In such circumstances, the risk of a crash could be increased."

The German automaker said drivers may first become aware of the issue due to a damp carpet in the rear of the vehicle; the sound of water sloshing around in the spare tire wheel well; or the illumination of the check-engine light.

Dealers have already been notified and owners will be notified Feb. 21, 2023.

Copyright 2023 United Press International, Inc. (UPI). Any reproduction, republication, redistribution and/or modification of any UPI content is expressly prohibited without UPI's prior written consent., source US Top News