Mercedes-Benz has recalled about 43,00 vehicles because they may lack a system that keeps track of brake wear.
The recall affects some, but not all, examples of the:
- 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, including AMG models
- 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA, including AMG models
- 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB
- 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Mercedes tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the vehicles “might not be equipped with the inspection gauge for checking the wear of the rear axle brake pads,” and the owner’s manual might not explain how to inspect rear brake pads.
This might not be much of a problem, Mercedes says. All the vehicles come equipped with a system that warns owners if the front brake pads need replacing. “Due to the brake force distribution, the brake pads on the front axle will always wear out sooner than the rear axle brake pads,” the company says.
Dealers inspect rear brake pads when an owner brings a vehicle in for a new set of front brake pads. That system should always catch any problem with the rear brakes. In addition, Mercedes says its internal tests show that front brake pads alone can safely stop the car even with worn rear brake pads.
But “if an increased wear on the brake pads on the rear axle is not identified, this might increase the risk of a crash.”
Dealers will add the inspection gauge to the rear brakes and a supplement to the owner’s manual explaining how to use it.
Recall repairs are always free. Automakers recall many cars, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Find out whether your car has any outstanding recalls with the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
