Mercedes-Benz Recalls Multiple Models for Fire Risk
The recall, triggered by a problem with a starting current limiter, involves more than 350,000 vehicles.
by Staff
March 3, 2017
Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
2 min to read
Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
Mercedes-Benz USA is recalling 354,434 vehicles so dealers can address a fire risk tied to the starting current limiter in these cars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall involves 2015- to 2017-model year C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles; 2017-MY 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; 2016-MY C350e and GLC300 vehicles; and 2016- and 2017-MY C450 4Matic AMG Sport and GLC300 4Matic vehicles.
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If the engine or transmission in these cars cannot turn over, the starting current limiter may overheat from repeated attempts of the starter motor attempting to start the vehicle.
“If the starting current limiter overheats, the surrounding components can melt, increasing the risk of a fire,” NHTSA warned on its website.
Mercedes-Benz dealers will install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter to remedy the problem. There will be no charge for this service. However, the necessary replacement parts aren’t yet available, NHTSA said.
As a result, vehicle owners will be sent two separate recall notifications — the first one informing them of the need for the recall, the second one informing them that the remedy parts are available at dealerships. Parts are expected to become available in July.
Vehicle owners can reach Mercedes-Benz at (800) 367-6372.
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