NHTSA Consumer Alert on Certain Mercedes- Benz Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a Consumer Alert about certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles. According to the press release, there is a voluntary Do Not Drive recall for select 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-class vehicles. At this time, approximately 292,287 vehicles are being impacted by this voluntary recall. 

Apparently, potentially corroded brake boosters can lead to severely affected braking capabilities. If there is corrosion to the brake booster, the brakes might not work, which can greatly increase the risk of an injury-causing or potentially fatal crash.  

Corrosion Can Lead to Brake Booster Leakage  

After a certain amount of time and in addition to water exposure, the corrosion can lead to a leakage of the brake booster. The leakage can lead to reduced braking power and an increase in the brake pedal forces required to slow the vehicle and/or to potentially increased stopping distances. According to the NHTSA, in rare cases of very severe corrosion, a particularly strong or hard braking maneuver could cause mechanical damage to the brake booster, where the connection between the brake pedal and the brake system could fail altogether.  

If that happens, you wouldn’t be able to stop or slow down your vehicle using the service brake. It’s possible for a driver to notice a change in the feel of the brake pedal and/or hissing/airflow noises when applying the brake pedal before more serious issues occur. Thankfully, no known crashes, injuries, or deaths have been reported in connection with this issue.  

What To Do If Your Vehicle is Under Recall 

If your vehicle is being impacted by this recall, contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for an inspection. If your vehicle isn’t exhibiting any advanced corrosion, you may be able to continue driving it. If your vehicle is showing signs of advanced corrosion, it may need a test performed to ensure the functionality of the brake booster. If it passes the test, it may be driven for up to two additional years before returning for a repair. If it doesn't pass the test, it will require a brake booster replacement for free.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a defective or faulty auto part in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.