2015 Mercedes-Benz C300
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Vehicles › Mercedes-Benz › C300 › 2015
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
These records cover every 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
11 recalls name the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. Newest first.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel…
A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017…
The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit…
An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.
MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Mercedes Benz C300, 2017-2019 C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, C63 Cabrio, 2015 C63S AMG, 2018-2019 C300, C350e, C63 AMG, C63S AMG Cabrio, 2018 C63 AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG, C63S AMG Coupe, E300, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2019 CLS450, E450 Cabrio, and E450 Coupe rear-wheel drive vehicles. A…
A car that cannot be properly steered has an increased risk of a crash.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering rack, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019080012.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2013-2015 C350 4Matic Coupe, GLK250 4Matic BlueTec…
If the driver air bag inadvertently deploys, it can increase the risk of injury and a crash.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will add sufficient grounding to the steering components, free of charge. The recall began in December 6, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550…
If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic, E400 4Matic Wagon, E43 AMG 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and GLC300 4Matic Coupe vehicles and 2016 C350e and GLC300 vehicles and 2016-2017 C450…
If the starting current limiter overheats, the surrounding components can melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter, free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2017080002.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 and C400 4matic sedans manufactured January 27, 2014, to December 1, 2014. Due to an error in the electric power steering control unit software, the affected vehicles may have a loss of electric power steering assist.
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the power steering software, free of charge. The recall began in January 15, 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 4matic and C400 4matic vehicles manufactured April 7, 2014, to July 25, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may be improperly secured to the fuel tank. Secondly, electrical wires that connect to the fuel delivery module might have been pinched between the…
If the locking plate is not properly secured to the fuel delivery module it may become loose, and leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire. If the electrical wires are pinched, the fuel pump may stop working, resulting in a stall, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles for improperly secured locking plates and pinched wires, correcting the vehicles as necessary, free of charge. The recal began on April 24, 2015. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2015030004.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 and C400 vehicles manufactured from June 18, 2014, through September 5, 2014, that fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." The affected vehicles were assembled with horizontal…
If the original horizontal adjustment is used to alter the low beam aim, the misaimed headlamp may not properly illuminated the road or cause increased glare to oncoming drivers, which increases the risk of a crash.
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the horizontal adjustment mechanisms on the headlamps with sealing caps on the affected vehicles. The recall began May 23, 2016. Owners may contact Mercedes at 1-800-367-6372.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015 C300 4Matic and C400 4Matic vehicles manufactured March 28, 2014, to September 18, 2014. If the steering coupling interlock mechanism is not locked in place, the sliding shaft, which is part of the steering column, could become disengaged from the steering coupling socket due to…
If the sliding shaft becomes disengaged from the steering coupling socket, the driver may experience noises, steering backlash, and in a worst case, loss of steering control, which may increase the risk of a crash.
MBUSA has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the steering coupling interlock mechanism to verify that it is in the locked position, free of charge. The recall began on October 1, 2014. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2014090008.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle and the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that there was two large holes and rust located on the rear subframe, an unknown part needed to be realigned and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was confirmed that the rear subframe and another unknown part needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and stated that the vehicle was not under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. While the contact’s son was driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle veered to the left and into the next lane when the brake pedal was depressed. The vehicle was cautiously driven back to the residence and parked. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the rear subframe had severe rust and was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not covered under the manufacturer’s extended warranty coverage for the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle fishtailed on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was raised on a lift, and the mechanic discovered that the rear subframe was severely corroded. The mechanic determined that the failure was associated with Manufacturer Communication Number: MC-10232321 (Structure); and referred the contact to a dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the failure was confirmed, and it was discovered that the rear subframe had separated. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair and was informed that goodwill assistance would not be provided. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the dealer was unreachable. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the panoramic roof failed to close as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the panoramic roof guide rails had failed. The contact was informed that the panoramic roof guide rails needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the mileage and age of the vehicle had exceeded the limitation. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Rear subframe rust has deemed the car unsafe to drive. Hitting a pot hole at high speed or any sudden stop could cause the subframe to collapse causing loss of control of car. Car is available for inspection upon request. Car was taken in for regular oil change and multi-point inspection when rust was noticed by mechanic at the dealership. Car is located in East TN not the snow belt. There have been recalls on similar models for the year prior, but this vin is not part of the recall and has same issue, although the number 204 which is part of the recall is stamped on the part. (Pic attached below.)
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes C300. The contact stated that the driver's side rear brakes and rotors were rusted. The contact stated that when the brakes were applied, they were slow to respond. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a braking center, which declined the warranty for the aftermarket parts. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000.
I was driving my car was sputtering or trying to shut off while I press the gas and I let go of the gas and it catches and stayed on. I took it to the dealership and they said they found nothing wrong. May 3rd around 12pm im driving on the freeway and as im getting on the express lane going 60 it dies and I couldn't move the steering wheel and I slammed into a guardrail. After doing research my car (vin [XXX] ) had multiple recals from the fuel pump and steering wheel and the dealership never fixed or checked any recalls before selling it to me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact inspected the exterior of the vehicle and became aware that the moon roof panel had detached, and the moon roof panel flew off the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V197000 (Structure) in 2021. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 62,612.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. While driving approximately 15 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and the body of the vehicle shifted to one side. The vehicle was drivable after the failure. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence and parked. The contact stated that due to the failure, the vehicle was unsafe to drive. An independent mechanic was contacted, and it was determined that the rear subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was not available.
Failed/Malfunctioned Component: Rear subframe (structural/chassis component) exhibited advanced corrosion (perforation/rust-through), compromising structural integrity and alignment/handling. Availability for Inspection: Yes. The vehicle and the subframe are available for inspection upon request. I can provide photos, videos, and repair estimates if needed. The corroded subframe is fracture and detach suspension mounting points, which may lead to: Sudden loss of vehicle stability or control (especially during braking, cornering, or over bumps). Unpredictable alignment changes causing pulling, vibration, or abnormal tire wear that can escalate into a loss-of-control event. Increased stopping distance and potential for wheel misalignment or collapse, raising the risk of a crash involving occupants and other road users. I limited driving/use due to the risk; issue is a structural safety concern rather than cosmetic. Confirmation: Yes on multiple visits since Oct 2023 -Yes—diagnosed and documented by Mercedes-Benz of Silver Spring on Oct 2 2023, Nov 2023 and Dec 2025. Technician confirmed severe corrosion/rust perforation on the rear subframe requiring replacement. No No
Fuel hose system leaking. Inhalation of gas fumes caused headaches and nausea. Risk of vehicle fire. Yes, the problem has been confirmed by a Mercedes dealer. This is a known issue with Mercedes C300 2015 models and other years. There have been other complaints/lawsuits against Mercedes not wanting to pay for the issue. No warnings just strong gas smell.
Rear subframe rusted out, car is not safe to drive
Rear subframe completely rusted out. While driving on the hwy I heard a loud noise, a couple minutes later I hit the brakes to slow down to get off my exit and after pressing the brakes the car instantly fishtailed sending me sideways across 2 lanes of traffic. Luckily no one was injured or killed. I’ve seen that the car manufacturer was replacing this issue on models 2008-2015. My vehicle is a 2015 and they are telling me my vehicle is not covered for the issue. The car is not drivable and Mercedes needs to be held accountable. A critical component such as rear subframe completely rusting out in just under 10 years is unheard of and I can’t afford to pay 10k to fix it. Please help
I’m the owner of a Mercedes Benz C- Class Sedan 2015. My Rear Sub Frame Rusted Through at The right trailing arm - Fails state inspection. Mercedes Benz has issued a extended 20 year warranty on all vehicles from 2008 - 2015 C - Class Sedan for Rear Sub Frame that rusted out. Mercedes Benz service advisor stated that my vehicle was not under that extended warranty when he run my vehicle Vin number. My vehicle should be under that warranty, I have the same problem with the same vehicles on the list. Please help. Thank you
The Rear Subframe on this vehicle is rusted and has hole in it. The sub frame requires replacement. The sub frame was inspected by the Mercedes-Benz Dealership, Euro Motorcars in Germantown, MD and they recommended that the sub frame should be replaced. There is an extended warranty that has been issued by Mercedes-Benz for the Model Year and Model (2008-2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupe). However, Mercedes-Benz decline to cover the cost of the repair stating that my VIN is not part of that Warranty. This is a well documented safety issue and I believe that Mercedes-Benz should include my VIN in that extended warranty and replaced the subframe on my car.
I took my 2015 vehicle to the Mercedes dealership and learned the rear subframe is rusted and has holes on two sides. I was warned that it is a safety hazard and could lead to a lack of control and other dangerous situations. I also learned that other 2010 through 2014 Mercedes models in the same class have been recalled for this exact concern. I am disappointed and upset to learn that those concerns are known, but not addressed in this model and put customers at risk.
there is a recall for 2008-2015 Mercades Benz c-300 c/w204. this recall talks about the rear subframe rusting out early on this car. we have a 2015 c300 c/w205. this car is seeing the same early rust seen in the other c-300. the dealership is refusing to do right by the warranty because it is a c/w205 even thought this is a known problem for this year and type of car. I am making this because it should be extended to all c300 2008-2015 cause they all use the same subframe. they changed the subframes and the look of the c-300 starting in 2016. it also would appear that the rust is coming from the inside of the subframe making we wonder how bad it is on the inside if it is making its way to the outside of it. I believe water penetrates into the rear subframe has no drainage and begins to rust. also we take the car to the dealer every 5 Ish months and this last service is the first we have seen of this.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle for the State Inspection, the contact was informed that the rear subframe was rusted, and there was a hole on each side of the rear subframe. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown diagnosis was made, and the dealer ordered an unknown part to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but denied assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.
On January 21,2025, I had an appointment for an inspection at Mercedes Benz of Smithtown, the dealership I use. I was informed that my car required replacement of a rotted rear subframe. A hole had rotted through, causing the car to "Fail inspection and was NOT SAFE" to drive. I was provided a video showing the damage. There was a recall in effect however, my Vin # was not included and it’s status has not changed. The 2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupe Vin # [XXX] , which was neglected to be included in the recall covers 2008-2015 C-Class Sedan/Coupes, regarding rotted rear subframe. MBUSA extended the vehicle Warranty 4 yrs/ 50,000 miles to 20 yrs/unlimited miles. However, I do not qualify for reimbursement of $4,014.92, because my Vin # was left off the list. Mercedes customer assistant center states they can't help, has to be included by NHTSA, when I said they cannot add a Vin #. I was then told, it has to come from the head office in Germany. Nothing like getting a run around not what I expected from Mercedes Benz USA, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Failed component: Front Sunroof Clip What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Sunroof clip, yes. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The glass pane lifted while the car was in motion and had to be held down to secure it until the car stopped. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No While merging to enter the freeway at approx 45-50 mph I opened my sunroof. At about halfway back the glass began to lift up off the track/railing as if it was going to fly off the track. Had I not been holding the button to open the sunroof I would not have noticed and the entire glass pane would have blown off, possibly damaging the car or worse flying off and hit another car. I had to hold the glass in place to keep it from flying off until I was able to exit the freeway. Once I stopped the car to inspect the sun roof I noticed the clip that secures the glass to the track was broken (crumbled) in the sunroof track. I removed the pieces of broken plastic from the track and was then able to close the sunroof. I am now unable to safely open my sunroof while the vehicle is in motion.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for a routine maintenance check, the contact was informed that there was severe corrosion on the subframe of the vehicle. The contact was informed that the vehicle was unsafe to drive and that several failures might occur due to the failure. The contact stated that recently, while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle swerved, and the contact lost control of the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that there was a warranty on the vehicle related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer covered under the warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the roof panel detached from the vehicle and fractured. The contact stated that the roof panel had previously been replaced, but the failure occurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the front roof panel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V854000 (Structure); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Check Engine light came on recently, fault code P052E is identified by scanner. Car has 60,000 miles on original it. MB dealer wants to charge $300 for diagnostics, repair job (parts and labor) may cost over $2,000. Since this is critical emission compliance part/system, why is it not recalling?
Panoramic glass sliding plastic brackets broke off while driving at 25-35 mph Lifting up the glass off the vehicle. Quick reaction saved the large detached glass from flying off into the roadway injuring or killing someone. Vehicle was 5 years old and out of warranty. Dealer estimated repair cost at $2500
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
In a letter dated April 29, 2022, Mr. Sergio Betancourt (the petitioner) submitted a petition attributing engine failure of his 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 to “wrong sized wrist-pins” and asserted that these were prevalent on all Mercedes-Benz models (including the Metris minivan, GLC300, and C300) equipped with a version of the M274 engine. The petition cited Mercedes Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) LI03.10-P-060916 (meant for the 2015 C300) and postulated that the “wrong-sized wrist pin” would allow the piston to “wiggle in the cylinder as it would move up and down”. In addition to the Mercedes-Benz TSB, the petitioner enclosed a service center repair estimate and images of other online submissions discussing the M274 engine. In the incident that prompted the petition, the petitioner reported that the vehicle lost power and shook in response to accelerator application during highway driving, followed by white smoke from the exhaust pipe. The petitioner stated that the subsequent service center visit led to a cracked piston diagnosis. The service record from this visit prescribed an engine teardown to localize the failure and characterize any resulting engine damage and listed a number of repair options that included replacement of one piston, four pistons, or the entire engine long block (depending on the level of damage suffered). TSB LI03.10-P-060916 (“TSB”) was first released on February 27, 2015 and pertained to Engine Code 274.920. It cited the following complaint condition: “Clattering/rattling or knocking noise from the crank assembly of the engine when cold at oil temperatures up to approximately 50°C mostly heard on engine deceleration” and listed the cause as under analysis. The TSB gave further instructions on the collection of information and discouraged the replacement of any components. On September 21, 2015, TSB Version 4 introduced engine build clean points (March 27, 2015 or April 20, 2015 depending on the engine plant); cause: unfavorable tolerance of the piston wrist pin resulting in enlarge end float of the connecting rod in the piston; and remedy: compare the complaint vehicle sound to an enclosed sound file under various operating conditions and then if verified, replace the pistons, connecting rods, and bearings, using updated pistons that include updated wrist pins. A review of the petitioner’s vehicle service history indicates that this labor operation was performed in March of 2016. In its November 22, 2022 response to ODI's September 28, 2022 Information Request (IR) letter, Mercedes stated that the limited number of potentially affected wrist pins could contribute to an unintended noise, but pose no motor vehicle safety risk. ODI's analysis of the field data furnished with the Mercedes IR response and within its own Vehicle Owners Questionnaire (VOQ) database support this assertion, finding no relationship between wrist-pin conditions cited in the TSB and engine failure or loss of motive power. Broader searches of both data sources for engine stalling related to engine durability identified no trends meriting further investigation. After conducting a technical review of the petitioner’s submissions, the vehicle history of the petitioner's vehicle, Mercedes TSB—LI03.10-P-060916, information provided by Mercedes-Benz in response to the Agency's Information Request, and data within its own files; NHTSA has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to pursue a formal investigation. Accordingly, the Agency has denied the petition. NHTSA will continue to review any new information or incidents as they are submitted to the Agency. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA's reasons for denial of the petition will be published in the future. The petition and its attachments can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under reference ODI number 11450360.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles.The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic degradation leading to replacement of the panel, a procedure which entails: removal of the old panel and adhesive, site preparation, and installation of a replacement panel with new adhesive.The consumer complaints that prompted the opening of PE21-001 all described detachments of front roof panels that had been replaced after the vehicle was put into service.Mercedes' internal investigation identified a broader scope of affected vehicles (2014-2020 CLA, GLA, C, S, GLC, and GLE class) and found the following potential service procedure- related causes of front roof panel detachments:- Improper surface pretreatments such as the use of the wrong primer or cleaner or scoring of the surface; or - Use of the incorrect adhesive.These conditions lead to a front roof panel bond that, even if sound at the time of repair, cannot maintain its strength over time and environmental exposure.Mercedes updated its service and parts ordering systems to reinforce the proper use of specified kits and procedures via webinars, shop foreman meetings, and explicit reference to the risks incurred by diverging from the repair procedures. Mercedes is also furnishing parts ordering assistance, and will hold dealerships accountable for improper repairs.ODI's analysis of the ten complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and MBUSA's complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for PE21-001 identified a total of 57 non-duplicative reports alleging incidents in which the front roof panel detached from the vehicle while in motion. Included within the 57 reports are incidents where consumers state the panel detached ...and flew off into traffic.On March 19, 2021, Mercedes notified NHTSA that it would recall subject vehicles with front roof panels known to have been replaced after the original sale of the vehicle. In total, the recall (designated as Recall 21V197) covers 15,099 vehicles that were ever registered in the United States. Based on Recall 21V197 and the remedy implemented by Mercedes, further investigation does not appear to be warranted at this time.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.nhtsa.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11376425, 11352686, 11351629, 11349158, 11341541, 11337594, 11324100, 11311591, 11222127, 11404183
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.