Mercedes-Benz has recalled 15,604 vehicles because a failing component can cause reduced brake performance. The company included a rare do-not-drive request, asking owners to park their cars and not drive them again until dealers have made a repair.
The recalled models include some, but not all, examples of the:
Mercedes tells federal safety officials that some examples of each of these cars include an “aesthetic rubber sleeve” around the brake booster. That sleeve can trap moisture and cause corrosion, eventually leading the booster to fail.
A brake booster does what it sounds like it does. A car’s brakes are strong enough to bring the car to a stop without the boost. But if a booster fails, the driver will suddenly have to press the pedal harder than usual to stop the car. Since there is typically no warning of impending failure, that longer stopping distance can contribute to an accident.
Mercedes says that “In rare cases of very severe corrosion, it might be possible for a particularly strong or hard braking maneuver to cause mechanical damage in the brake booster,” which might cause complete brake failure.
But Mercedes says, “There have been no reported crashes, injuries, fatalities, or property damage caused by this defect in the U.S.”
Third Similar Recall
This is the third batch of GL, ML, and R-Class vehicles Mercedes has recalled over this issue. Earlier recalls in May and June of 2022 covered the same issue. In prior recalls, Mercedes has offered complimentary towing to get the vehicles to the dealership for repair. We anticipate the company will do the same this time.
Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve and inspect the brake booster. They’ll return the car to the customer if they find no corrosion. If they suspect any weakness, they’ll replace the brake booster.
“In the event a repair is necessary and cannot be carried out immediately, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will help coordinate an individual solution for the customer, including alternate mobility,” Mercedes says.
Many cars are subject to safety recall at some point in their lifespan, and the fix is always free. Automakers attempt to contact every owner to notify them, but inevitably, some slip through the cracks. Find out if your car has ever been recalled at our recall center.
