Safety Risks: Mercedes-Benz Issues Three Recalls

Mercedes vehicles spanning five model years are subject to three different recall issues all affecting drivability and safety.

History of the Recall

Initiating a host of recalls, Mercedes has announced various defects from poor welding issues, faulty fuses, and issues with transmission gear changes.

Firstly, the most prominent issue affects over 100,000 vehicles and involves the transmission. Reportedly, engines may stall when shifting between sixth and seventh gear. 

Secondly, 32,000 vehicles are subject to faulty fuses which can switch off systems without warning. This could lead to an increased risk of fire or crashing.

Finally, the 466 2024 model year vehicles have issues with the spot weld located on the accelerator pedal. This may lead to the detachment of the pedal bracket and may cause the accelerator to be stuck in a slightly open position and may completely block the brake pedal. Both instances could cause a crash and risk driving safety.

Which Models Are Affected?

The transmission fault affects both the GLE 450 and GLS 450 SUVs in the Mercedes lineup across the 2020-2023 model years. Secondly, the fuse issue affects the 2023-2024 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, CLE, GLC, EQE, EQE SUV, EQS, and EQS SUV vehicles. The faulty weld on the accelerator pedal affected 199 GLE350, 96 GLE450, 7 AMG GLE53, and 164 AMG GLE53 Coupe models.

Mercedes has issued fixes for all three recalls:

  1. Transmission Glitch – Dealers are instructed to update the transmission control unit software.
  2. Fuse Failure – The main fuse boxes will be replaced by the dealer.
  3. Faulty Spot Weld – Instead of re-welding, dealers are instructed to fix the bracket with rivets.

What Owners Need to Do Next

From February 23, dealers have been notified of the necessary steps to fix the three recalls issued by Mercedes-Benz. Owners will be notified separately by April 16 where they will be instructed to take their affected vehicle in for repair.

These three recalls affect over 137,000 Mercedes Benz vehicles and there has been no comment or reports of injuries so far as the manufacturer fails to disclose the information.

How Consumers Can Take Back Control

This latest announcement from Mercedes involves three major recalls. One of which is a safety critical component affecting the accelerator pedal and brake ability. Fuse issues and transmission glitches could also pose a significant safety risk. Whilst the recalls aim to prevent issues, many owners continue to be unhappy with the solutions provided by automakers. These problems have the potential to escalate into further legal action, just like this – underlining the importance of protecting consumer rights.

If you struggle with vehicle troubles and feel cornered against big vehicle brands, remember it is always better to have experts with you. With extensive experience and successful cases at hand, The Lemon Firm is your best bet. With the dedicated team members always at your disposal, the package becomes too good to be true. So, if your car is giving you a headache, don’t hesitate to reach out! 

Call 833 Lemon Firm and speak with a case analyst today!

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Mercedes-Benz’s Recall on Brake Gauge Oversight

Mercedes-Benz has initiated a recall on over 42K cars because the rear brake pad wear monitoring device is missing. It was done in response to safety standards that demand precision and has been prompted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall marks a major manufacturing issue, potentially risking the safety of Mercedes-Benz owners affected by it. To understand the impacts of the recall, owners must have a deep insight into the issue. Let’s explore it in detail.

Inside the Recall

The issue was flagged by the NHTSA. The missing inspection gauge and the lack of instructions in the owner’s manual break safety rules. This means the models from 2019 to 2021 do not have a system to monitor the brake pad’s working. The recall aims to rectify these issues and ensure compliance with safety standards for affected vehicle owners. Here is the list of affected models:

  • 2019-2020 A220
  • 2020 AMG A35
  • 2020 AMG CLA45
  • 2020 AMG CLA35
  • 2020 CLA250
  • 2020 GLB250
  • 2021 GLA250

Mercedes Benz Oversight

This problem leads to noncompliance with federal motor vehicle safety standard number 135, which deals with “Light vehicle brake systems.” Mercedes Benz has acknowledged the issue and is taking measures to address the defect and the insufficient manual instructions. However, it is essential to note that handling the legal implications of such recalls can be complicated, especially when it comes to individual rights and potential compensations. Affected owners must understand these complexities to make informed decisions.

Impact on Owners

Here are the impacts of the recall on affected owners:

  • Safety Concerns: Lack of accurate brake pad wear assessment may pose safety risks.
  • Performance Issues: Compromised brake monitoring could affect vehicle performance.
  • Uncertainty: Owners may face uncertainty regarding their vehicle’s safety.
  • Maintenance Challenges: Difficulty in assessing brake pad condition for timely maintenance.
  • Potential Safety Hazards: Increased risk of accidents due to undetected worn brake pads.

Sign and Solution

If you hear those grinding noises when hitting the brakes or notice your ride taking longer to stop, it might signal a brake pad wear issue. It is connected with authorized dealerships or service centers to install the required monitoring equipment to resolve the issue. Staying informed about the rectification process through official communications from Mercedes Benz is crucial to address the concern.

To begin the legal process for impacted Mercedes-Benz vehicles, it is essential to meticulously document any incidents or observations related to the issue. This documentation serves as the foundational evidence for any potential legal proceedings. Seeking legal consultation is the next crucial step.

Road Map to Legal Resolution

Mercedes-Benz owners should promptly engage with legal professionals specializing in automotive law or consumer rights. Legal experts offer invaluable insights into individual rights, compensation avenues, and further actions for a legal resolution.

If you experience a similar issue in your Mercedes, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At the Lemon Firm, our experienced attorneys have successfully recovered compensation for clients in similar situations. Call (833) Lemon-firm to speak with a case analyst today.

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Engine Stalling Issues Lead Mercedes to Recall 143,000 Vehicles

Mercedes-Benz has initiated a recall of 143,000 vehicles due to a safety concern related to defective fuel pumps, which poses a potential risk. The issue was identified when the fuel pump led to shutting down the engine while driving. Mercedes Benz has addressed this issue and will provide a free fuel pump replacement for each recalled vehicle at their authorized dealership.

Major Troubles in Recalled Cars

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has revealed that some models of Mercedes are facing trouble with the fuel pump, which leads to stalling. Before the stall, the owner notices an unexpected engine running, which can later be indicated by the warning lights in the dashboards, making the drive worrisome. As a result of this, the fuel pump shuts off quickly. It is identified that the material of the fuel pump is of low grade. Because of that, the impeller deforms. The impeller becomes anchored to the chamber’s walls and stops it from rotating. Due to this entire process, the fuel pump may fail, potentially resulting in an accident or harm at any point.

Mercedes Stance on This Issue

Mercedes identified the problem in the fuel pump of the engine in some models, which abruptly shut down while driving. Following an investigation into problematic vehicles, they also identified that the material used to manufacture the impeller was inappropriate. Mercedes notified the vehicle owners to have their cars rectified at their authorized dealerships after detecting the faulty fuel pump issue. The dealerships will replace the old, deformed fuel pump with a new, functional one at no cost. 

Recalled Models

Mercedes issued a recall for around 143,000 units of the following models: 

  • GLC (2021/22)
  • GLE (2021/22)
  • GLS (2021/22)
  • G-Class (2021/22)
  • C-Class (2021/22)
  • E-Class (2021/22)
  • S-Class (2021/22)
  • CLS (2021/22)
  • GT sedans (2021/22)

However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that there are 2,031 complaints of fuel pump issues. To address consumer complaints, Mercedes has notified the vehicle owners to visit the dealerships and have their fuel pumps replaced at the earliest to avoid any safety risks.

Identifying Eligibility for Recall

The official website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers a platform where vehicle owners may verify whether their automobiles are subjected to recall by entering their VIN. The Vehicle Identification Number is a 14-digit code written on your car’s registration card or the lower left of your windshield. Enter your car’s VIN on the NHTSA website to check for recalls if you haven’t received any recall notices yet.

Final Thoughts

According to Mercedes-Benz, injuries or automobile crashes have not been reported yet. Car stalling is a serious issue while driving due to its detrimental risks. Owners can check for recalls on the NHTSA website. If you didn’t find your car’s VIN among the recalled vehicles, you can consult with a professional attorney to understand what legal options are available to you. 

If you have ever experienced issues in your hybrid or EV, you can reach out to our case analysts. We at Lemon Firm can successfully help you with reimbursements for manufacturing faults. Serious matters require professional attention; our expert attorneys will help you achieve success. 

To talk with a Lemon Law specialist right away, dial (833) Lemon-Firm.

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Stop-Drive by Mercedes, AMG G63 4×4² Recall

Mercedes! A brand known for its elite and top-rated cars hits a class action for one of its variants. The SUV model AMG G63 4×4² faces a critical issue of cracks in the Rear differential Housing, which dragged the company to a recall. Let’s understand the issues in detail.

G63 Model Recall Details by NHTSA 

Even though this Mercedes variant was a huge success, a major fault in the car turned the tables. Car owners claimed problems with the AMG G63 4×4² Rear Differential, so the company has issued a recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) allocated 22V-937 as a recall number, confirming that 278 consumers had faced this problem in the mentioned Gelandewagen version. G63 4×4² cars manufactured between July 13 and October 21, 2022, were reported defective. Despite the small scale of the recall, the company prioritized the risk posed by the deformation since it was so substantial. Due to the nature of the deformation, owners did not receive any notice of the differential housing issue, but the dealers were addressed.

Problems Reported By the Customers

The cost of maintaining a premium car equals the cost of acquiring it. Mercedes AMG G63 4×4² owners have faced a problem with this G-wagon model and reported it to the company in 2022. Unfortunately, the latest squared version of this super-SUV, equipped with portal axles, is experiencing the problem. Users have reported the following issues:

  • Rear Differential Housing Problem: The fractured rear differential causes difficulty for users, resulting in the loss of power to the back wheels.
  • Leakage Problem: Some car owners experienced oil leaks on the road and difficulty in gear operation. A whining noise from the gear mesh was also reported.

If you have observed these symptoms in your car, do not take them lightly!

Company Response – Stop-Drive Orders by Mercedes

Mercedes is a well-known car company that has been dealing in cars, trucks, and G wagons for almost a century. As the problem arose in its AMG variant, the company responded immediately and started the tests at its headquarters. After detecting the issues, Benz issued the stop-drive orders.

The company stated two scenarios while explaining the defect. The milder case results in fluid leakage – the Mercedes-Benz officials stated. And the rear differential housing of the G63 4×4² shows strength problems that might be due to “potential process deviation at a supplier.” The rear differential might crack on everyday rides, causing oil leakage and risk to other motorists. On the extreme side, the housing can completely break and stop the power transfer to the rear wheel, halting the propulsion of the back tires.

For the customers’ safety, Benz issued a recall and requested every owner to reach their nearest dealer to get their car checked. Dealers were asked to inspect the problem and replace the rear axle if needed. The company provided ease by making the loading and towing of the car free of cost.

Final Words

The rear differential housing crack is a major defect in such premium vehicles. If you have noticed the same issue in your vehicle, you are not alone. Experienced attorneys at the Lemon firm have successfully recovered compensation for our clients who purchased vehicles with manufacturing defects. We can assist you too. To talk to a Lemon Law expert right away, dial (833) Lemon-firm.

Mercedes Recalls Vehicles Due To Hands-Off Sensor Defect

Mercedes-Benz recently announced that it would recall 8,396 vehicles due to a hand-off sensor defect. The issue with the sensor has been linked to several accidents, and this recall is intended to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road. Did you know about the defect? Let’s take a closer look at why Mercedes recalls its vehicles and what this means for drivers and owners of these cars.

What Is Hands-off Detection Software?

Hands-off-Detection Software is used in Mercedes vehicles to detect when the driver has taken their hands off the steering wheel. This is intended to ensure that drivers are paying attention while behind the wheel, and if they take their hands off the wheel for too long, an alarm will sound and force them to retake control of the vehicle. The software uses a combination of sensors to detect when the driver’s hands are off the wheel. These systems are designed to automatically take control of braking and steering when necessary, allowing the driver to maintain control without having to intervene physically.

Functionality and Benefits 

Hands-off detection software works by monitoring the inputs from sensors in the car. These sensors track everything from wheel angle to vehicle speed to acceleration. They’re constantly looking for signs that drivers may have taken their hands off the wheel. If those signs are detected, an alarm will sound inside the car to alert the driver. Hands-off detection software is essential for self-driving cars because it prevents accidents from happening due to drivers being distracted or not paying attention to their surroundings. Some of the benefits include:

  • Safety of drivers on the road.
  • Alerts driver when hands are off the wheel.
  • Helps to prevent potential accidents from occurring. 
  • Reduces risk for all road users. 
  • Increases awareness among drivers. 

Problem with Mercedes Software 

An increasing number of cars come equipped with hands-off systems that allow drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel while driving. This is made possible by using sensors and other technologies. The problem with hands-off sensor software in Mercedes vehicles is that it has been linked to a false reading. This particular problem disrupts the automatic detection system for the vehicle’s steering wheel and triggers it to falsely detect that a driver has their hands on the wheel, even when they don’t. This false detection could prevent drivers from being warned about an impending accident. Eventually, putting them and other road users at risk. To ensure the safety of everyone on the road, Mercedes announced a recall for all affected vehicles. 

Mercedes Recall

In order to preserve the security of all motor vehicle operators, Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for a specific number of Mercedes-Benz cars due to an issue with their hands-off sensor software. The recall is intended to replace these faulty sensors so that drivers can benefit from the functionality and features of this technology. The cars in question are equipped with upgradeable software that allows Mercedes to fix any issues with their hands-off sensors remotely. This recall highlights the importance of using quality software in cars and other motor vehicles. 

How Many People Have Been Affected by This Issue?

Mercedes found that certain production models contain an issue with the hands-off detection system that causes it to trigger falsely or not trigger at all – both of which can be dangerous behind the wheel. However, the exact number of people affected is unknown. Owners of the affected vehicles should contact their local Mercedes dealership for details about how to get the sensors fixed and replaced. Mercedes anticipated that they would begin sending notifications to affected vehicle owners via mail. This software update is being done to provide the best possible safety features for drivers and other motorists on the road. 

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Mercedes Lawsuit: 48 Volt Battery Problem

Imagine you have an important meeting, but your new Mercedes won’t start. This is exactly what happened to a customer when she parked her Mercedes-Benz CLS without any lights or electronics on. After a few hours, the 48-volt battery was drained completely.

If you are a Mercedes owner and experiencing 48-volt battery problems, you’re not alone. Many owners are facing other issues related to the battery such as the car being unable to start, shutting off while in motion.

Mercedes owners are claiming that 48-volt batteries in their vehicles are dying unexpectedly and leaving them without their cars for weeks.

Affected Mercedes Vehicles

It is found that 48-volt battery problems occur mostly with the E-, CLS- and GLE-/GLS-class vehicles model year 2019 and onward for the sedans, and model year 2020 for the SUVs. The investigation isn’t limited to only these models and inspecting all cars with the 48-volt mild hybrid system.

Symptoms of Mercedes 48V Battery Problems

There are many reports of different issues related to 48-volt battery systems. However, the most common issues are no starts and vehicles shutting off in motion.  Drivers say that these problems occur randomly even with a brand-new car with less than 50 miles.

Additionally, vehicles that are towed to the dealership often take several days to diagnose the problem. Some owners are stuck with paying for diagnostics, software updates and even battery replacements.

Mercedes 48 Volt Battery Malfunction: What Are Mercedes Drivers Saying?

“My 2021 E450 All-Terrain wagon is on its third 48-volt battery. The first battery failed after 15 days and 196 miles. The second battery died after 30 days and 535 miles. The third and current battery is still alive and well after 5 months a little over 3,000 miles, but my confidence still hasn’t been restored.” — LONGROOF45, MBWORLD.ORG

“My car is a 2021 E 450 All Terrain with approximately 6,700 miles, delivery taken at the end of March 2021. It would not start 5 days ago while parked in the garage and had to be flatbed towed to the dealer…As of today, my car has been with dealer for 5 days, and other than confirming it would not start due to a faulty 48v battery, I have received zero support from the dealer. I am without a car (no loaners are ‘available’) and they have given me no information on how long my car will be out of service. I can’t even get them to confirm that Mercedes has authorized a battery replacement.” — JAYST, MBWORLD.ORG

“I had my battery replaced last week. My car only has 152 miles on it. I sincerely hope that the new battery does not fail. I’ve also got some creaks on the door panels. My faith in MB is way down. The fact that MB Denver has done 60 of these replacements already tells me MB has a known issue on their hands and is doing nothing. That’s a real shame in my book.”

WIEN0305, MBWORLD.ORG

“I received my pre-ordered 2021 E 450 Cabriole on December 28, 2020. After one week, the car without warning wouldn’t start and had to be towed into Ft. Lauderdale. Since then the car has been in the shop. We have been waiting for the delivery of a battery and no one seems to be able to locate a battery. This 48v battery located in the trunk is unique to the 2021 model year, and apparently no spare parts are available especially critical parts needed for the operation of the vehicle. Very sad to pay $80,000 for a new car, and not be able to use the vehicle for an unknown period of time.” — P. MOORE, BENZFORUM.COM

“I just had my brand new GLS have the same 48V battery malfunction for the second time since I bought it. It doesn’t even have 10k miles on it yet. The first time I got the 48V battery malfunction light on and within 2 minutes the car would no longer accelerate. Mercedes said it was a manufacturing problem to do with the grounding of the 48V battery in the engine…that there was ‘paint’ in the way and it wasn’t ground properly. They had my car for 5 days, sanded our the pain and reattached it all then said it was fine. Less than 3 months and a few thousand miles later I had the exact same problem. Warning light comes on and then multiple other warning lights after…This time I knew to pull over right away before the engine failed. I had to have it towed in both times. The car is BRAND new….and frankly, feels super unsafe now that this has happened twice.” — TINK, MBWORLD.ORG

How Could a Class Action Lawsuit Help?

A class-action lawsuit could give Mercedes owners a chance to recover rental and repair costs, as well as compensation for being unable to use their vehicles. It can also force automaker to extend warranties and find a permanent fix for the issue. If you are experiencing problems with your 48V battery, we want to know.

Final Thoughts

If you are an automobile owner and have manufacturing issues, you can contact us regarding your involvement in this or any potential class-action lawsuit. Serious vehicle problems require serious legal representation, especially when you are bringing a claim against a major automaker. At the Lemon Firm, our experienced Attorneys have been able to successfully recover compensation for our clients who were sold a vehicle with manufacturer defects, and we can do the same for you. Call (833) Lemon-Firm to speak with a Lemon law expert today.

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Mercedes-Benz Recall: Everything About Emissions Class Action Settlement

If you are an owner or former owner or lessee of certain Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter BlueTEC vehicles, you may qualify to claim thousands of dollars thanks to the Mercedes emissions class-action lawsuit alleging emissions cheating on diesel-powered vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. In a proposed settlement with federal and California regulators, announced Sept. 14, the automaker would recall around 250,000 diesel vehicles from 2009 to 2016 model years.

As per the agreement, the automaker will also extend the warranty of certain affected parts, reform its internal audit procedures, and fund projects to reduce pollution elsewhere.

According to the EPA, affected models are:

  • Sprinter: 2010-16 Sprinter six-cylinder, 2014-16 Sprinter four-cylinder
  • E-Class: 2011-13 E350 Bluetec, 2014-16 E250 Bluetec
  • GL-Class: 2009 GL320 Bluetec, 2010-16 GL350 Bluetec
  • GLK-Class: 2013-15 GLK250 Bluetec
  • M/GLE Class: 2009 ML320 Bluetec, 2010-14 ML350 Bluetec, 2015 ML250 Bluetec, 2016 GLE300d
  • R-Class: 2009 R320 Bluetec, 2010-12 R350 Bluetec
  • S-Class: 2012-13 S350 Bluetec

Plaintiffs in the Mercedes emissions class action had alleged certain Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC vehicles were equipped with emission control systems that emit more nitrogen oxides than consumers expect and more than what is permitted under state and federal law.

What Did Class Action Lawsuit Say?

A consent decree filed by the EPA and California Air Resources Board claims that the automaker sold some 250,000 diesel vehicles with undisclosed auxiliary emission control devices, or AECDs, and so-called “defeat devices.” Those devices caused excess emissions of nitrogen oxide, an ozone-causing pollutant linked to respiratory and cardiac problems.

In its response, Daimler denied the allegations and admitted no liability.

“The settlement resolves the company’s pending civil proceedings with the U.S. authorities without reaching any determinations as to whether functionalities in Daimler’s vehicles are defeat devices,” the automaker said.

How Was This Uncovered?

Federal and California regulators found the alleged defeat devices while testing vehicles in Michigan and California under stepped-up testing after the Volkswagen emissions scandal. Volkswagen’s scandal also involved the use of defeat devices allowing hundreds of thousands of diesel-powered cars to emit excess nitrogen oxide damaging the ozone layer and the environment.

What Does the Repair Involve?

The automaker will do a software update and replacement of vehicle-specific hardware such as new nitrogen oxide sensors and catalysts, also extend the warranty of affected software and hardware, with tests performed annually for 5 years to ensure affected vehicles continue to meet emissions standards down the road.

Specific repairs vary, and in some cases aren’t even finalized. There are 12 subgroups within the affected vehicles population, according to the EPA, with specific repairs for each group. As of this writing, the agency says it approved repairs for five of the 12 groups, encompassing the 2013-15 GLK250 Bluetec, 2015 ML250 Bluetec, 2016 GLE300d, and six-cylinder 2010-16 Sprinter. Repairs for other groups are set for approval from now through 2021.

Will the Repair Cost Anything?

As per the settlement agreement, repairs will be free of costs. The automaker will recall and repair vehicles at no cost to owners, the Justice Department said.

Can I Seek Compensation Otherwise?

Potentially, but not yet. The separate consumer class-action suit between Daimler and the plaintiffs’ group for diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner models from the same years reached an agreement offering up to $3,290.

If you previously owned or leased an affected vehicle, you could claim up to $822.50, though exact payouts will depend on how many people owned the vehicle and who makes a successful claim.

Again, the settlement does not assume guilt on Daimler’s part. The automaker “denies the material factual allegations and legal claims asserted by the plaintiffs and settlement class members.”

Affect On Performance or Fuel Economy

For the five approved repair groups, there shouldn’t be any negative effects on drivability, mileage, reliability, or performance, the EPA said. Daimler “must perform fuel economy tests and provide consumers with an emissions modification disclosure that contains a clear and accurate description regarding all impacts of the emissions modification on the vehicle, including any impacts on fuel economy,” the EPA said.

When Will Automaker Start Repair?

Two courts have to approve the specifics first. No date was given but Daimler expects things to move forward sometime late this year. The automaker said it would roll out the emissions modifications in various phases, with each customer receiving a mailed notice “as soon as the emission modification can be undertaken for their vehicle.” It also said it would publish a website with additional information starting late this year.

As per the consent decree, Daimler must fix at least 85% of affected passenger vehicles two years from the effective date.  The automaker has three years from those dates to fix 85% of affected Sprinter vans. If the automaker doesn’t hit the specified percentages by the deadlines, it faces fines of $6.4 million for each percentage point short on cars and $9.1 million for each point short on vans. California, meanwhile, will assess separate fines on repair shortfalls for affected vehicles registered there.

How Much Will This Settlement Cost Daimler?

The automaker will pay between $2 billion and $3 billion. The settlement alone will total nearly $1.5 billion, with $945.3 million in penalties and $546 million to recall cars and perform federal pollution-mitigation projects, including $110 million in specific funding for pollution mitigation in California.

Further, the automaker says it expects the class-action settlement to cost approximately $700 million, including attorney’s fees.

Final Thoughts

If you are an automobile owner and have manufacturing issues, you can contact us regarding your involvement in this potential class-action lawsuit.. Serious vehicle problems require serious legal representation, especially when you are bringing a claim against a major automaker.

At the Lemon Firm, our experienced California Consumer Attorneys have been able to successfully recover compensation for our clients who were sold a vehicle that did not perform as intended and we can do the same for you. Our experienced attorneys can be reached by calling (833) Lemon-Firm.

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Mercedes Recalls C300, AMG C43, and AMG C63

By Nicole Halavi

As of this month, Mercedes-Benz is recalling more than 24,500 vehicles because of an issue concerning the retraction of the front seat belts when not in use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the seat belts function properly, but “if the seat belt does not fully retract, the occupant may find the operation of the seat belt inconvenient and not wear it, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.”

The retraction issue is caused by the distance between the seat belt retractor and the damping foam within the B-pillar paneling that might not be up to par with current product specifications and certain federal safety standards.

In February 2020, the automaker launched initial investigations based on reports from customers in the field describing instances where the front belts failed to properly retract to the stowed position.

Accordingly, the Mercedes recall will begin March 23, 2021, and dealerships will begin inspecting the retraction of the seat belts and adjust the damping foam within the B-pillars.

What Can I Do if I’m Driving a Mercedes Exhibiting Seat Belt Retraction Issues?

If you are driving a Mercedes that is exhibiting any of the issues discussed above concerning the front seat belts, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you and prevent any further complications. The attorneys at CCA are very knowledgeable about the issues associated with faulty seat belt retraction system and will work with you to fight back against the automaker.

Please do not hesitate to call CCA today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM. We’ll get you the compensation you deserve – and at no cost to you!

car radiator

Mercedes-Benz Class Action Lawsuit: Radiator Leaks

By Nicole Halavi

A class action lawsuit was recently filed against automaker Mercedes-Benz regarding issues with the radiator guards. Such guards are required to protect against damage from rocks and debris that may damage the vehicle’s radiators and cause coolant leaks. The suit alleges that the front bumper covers, and air inlets were equipped with protective grilles prior to the 2016 models.

The problem looks like this: rocks strike the radiator, which causes a coolant leak, leading to an insufficient coolant system pressure, a warped head and ultimately, engine failure. The class action alleges the following models were equipped with wire mesh guards or injection-molded ABS plastic to protect radiators from rocks and debris:

  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG C43
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG C63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG E43
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG E63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG S63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG S65
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG SL65
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC43
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG G63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG G65
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE43
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63
  • 2016-present Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS63

One plaintiff claims that within one year of purchasing his new 2016 Mercedes AMG C63S, he noticed fluid leaking and a warning appearing concerning low coolant. At this point, he took his vehicle to a dealer in March 2017 to complain about the leak and warning. The technician performed a coolant pressure test and found that there was a hole in the intercooler. Ultimately, the dealer refused to cover the repair even though the vehicle was less than a year old with only 9,000 miles on it. The same plaintiff took his vehicle to another Mercedes dealer, which agreed to cover the labor costs for replacing the turbo radiator, but still charged him $1,050 for the actual repair. Unfortunately, the plaintiff alleges his radiator is still not protected from rocks and debris because there are no guards or covers over the radiator.

Finally, in May 2019, the automaker announced a service campaign for 2018-2019 E-Class and GLC-Class vehicles to install grilles to protect the radiators. Nevertheless, the class action suit alleges that owners will be forced to pay above $80,000 to replace engines that fail due to overheating from coolant leaks – not including the replacement of damaged radiators and associated parts.

What Can I Do if I have a Faulty Radiator?

If you are driving a Mercedes-Benz that is exhibiting any of the issues discussed above concerning the radiator, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you and prevent any further complications. The attorneys at CCA are very knowledgeable about the issues associated with these radiators in Mercedes vehicles and will work with you to fight back against the automaker.

Please do not hesitate to call CCA today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM. We’ll get you the compensation you deserve – and at no cost to you!

A sunroof in a passenger car.

Does Mercedes Benz Have a Sunroof Problem?

Mercedes-Benz recently announced the recall of about 750,000 vehicles because the glass from the sunroofs could suddenly detach while a car is moving and create a road hazard. If you own or lease a Mercedes-Benz or other vehicle that has a defective sunroof, you should consult an experienced lemon law attorney. 

The Backdrop

The recall of nearly three-quarters of a million Mercedes vehicles involve model-year 2001 through 2011 C-Class, CLK-Class, CLS-Class and E-Class sedans, wagons, and coupes. Although Mercedes claims it is unaware of any damage or injuries caused by the defective sunroofs, a sunroof that detaches while a car is in motion is a hazard for vehicles that are traveling behind. 

The automaker attributed the problem to faulty bonding that attaches the sunroof glass to the roof of the vehicle. If the bonding fails, the glass could detach from the vehicle. Mercedes-Benz has instructed dealers to inspect and replace the sliding sunroof free of charge. Mercedes will begin notifying affected consumers on February 14, 2019.

Mercedes-Benz’s History of Sunroof Problems

This is not the first time Mercedes-Benz drivers have dealt with defective sunroofs. In 2018, Mercedes, and its parent company, Daimler AG, were hit with a class-action lawsuit in California over claims that panoramic sunroofs in certain Mercedes-Benz models spontaneously explode, shatter or crack. The lead plaintiff in the case claimed the sunroof in his 2015 GLA model suddenly shattered while he was driving, spraying the cabin with shards of glass. 

In February 2019, the case was partially dismissed. The presiding judge dismissed claims that  Mercedes was aware of the defect and had engaged in active concealment. However, the judge let the express warranty claim stand, finding that the plaintiff had plausibly alleged defects in material or workmanship. The judge also held that the plaintiff’s implied warranty claim was not time-barred because the sunroof defect existed within one year of when the vehicle was leased. At this juncture, the class-action is still working its way through the courts, so the resolution of this matter remains uncertain. 

Why This Matters

Given the sheer number of vehicles involved in the recall and the pending class-action lawsuit, it appears that Mercedes sunroof problem may not be an isolated incident. Moreover, a defective sunroof — one that leaks, fails to open or close, or that spontaneously shatters – can impact the value and safety of a vehicle. If you own or lease a new Mercedes-Benz that has a defective sunroof that the dealer cannot or refuses to repair, the best way to enforce your rights is to contact California Consumer Attorneys, PC.   Feel free to call us today for a free consultation with a lemon law professional: (833) LEMON-FIRM.