Mercedes-Benz recently announced voluntary safety recalls surrounding both its M-Class SUV, along with its large Sprinter commercial vans.
2000 – 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, 2000 – 2004 ML55 AMG The Problem: Certain M-Class SUVs may have been built with faulty brake switches that may prevent drivers from deactivating the cruise control by means of a light tap on the brake pedal (greater pressure, along with using the cancel or off buttons, will still deactivate the system). Drivers may experience a delay in slowing a vehicle, which may subsequently increase the chance of an accident (To date, Mercedes-Benz reports no accidents or injuries attributed to this issue).
The Fix: Dealers will replace the defective switch on the affected vehicles free of charge. Mercedes will begin contacting customers in the coming months. Customers seeking further information can contact the manufacturer by calling 1-800-367-6372.
Number of vehicles potentially affected: 136,751 M-Class SUVs manufactured between August 1999 and July 2002, along with ML55 AMG vehicles built between August 1999 and June 2004.
2008 – 2011 Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 The problem: Seat belts found on optional bench seats available for the passenger compartment may not meet minimum code set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Belts on the affected bench seats may not lock as required, and the assembly loop does not appear to meet minimum force requirements. No injuries have been reported as a result of the defective belts.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace defective seat belts free of charge, and begin notifying customers in May. Customers seeking further information regarding the recall can reach the manufacturer by calling 843-695-5000.
Number of vehicles potentially affected: 3437 vehicles manufactured between October 2007 and February 2011 were built with the optional bench seat, and are subject to this recall.