Mercedes-Benz is recalling 324,000 vehicles that are at risk of stalling due to a water-intrusion defect.

The notice affects Mercedes ML and GLE sport-utility vehicles for model years 2012-2020. Only 1% of vehicles are likely to be affected, the automaker said.

The issue stems from a possible design flaw that can cause water to build up in a vehicle's spare wheel well, which can set off a device that causes the engine to shut down.

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.