Mercedes-Benz Recalls Over 140,000 Vehicles in the United States
Mercedes-Benz is recalling 143,551 vehicles in the United States due to a fuel pump defect. The affected models include the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class from the years 2021 to 2023. The faulty fuel pump may cause a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of collision.
The issue stems from a deviation in the production process of the fuel pump's secondary supplier, resulting in materials that do not meet the required specifications for some fuel pump impellers. Additionally, certain batches of the fuel delivery modules do not meet durability requirements. This could lead to impeller deformation, causing contact with the fuel pump housing and creating mechanical resistance. In some cases, it may result in the fuel pump shutting down, leading to a loss of power and an increased risk of accidents or injuries. However, drivers may be alerted to the malfunction through warning messages on the instrument cluster before the fuel pump shuts down, and they might notice unstable engine operation.
According to the information reported by Mercedes-Benz to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, we can roughly understand the process of defect discovery and recall decision-making by the company:
In early June 2022, Mercedes-Benz initiated a preliminary investigation based on individual field reports from outside the United States, indicating engine power instability. The company speculated that the fuel pump functionality might be compromised. In July of the same year, an investigation was launched after receiving reports of engine instability. Analysis revealed abnormalities in the raw materials of fuel pump impellers from a secondary supplier. Extensive testing was conducted, and potentially affected fuel pumps and vehicles were identified. On June 16, 2023, Mercedes-Benz decided to recall the affected vehicles due to safety concerns.
From August 30, 2021, to May 23, 2023, Mercedes-Benz received a total of 2,031 warranty claims, field reports, and service reports in the United States. No accidents resulting in collisions, injuries, or fatalities related to this issue were reported globally during this period.
Dealerships will provide free replacement of the fuel pump. The notification letter to vehicle owners is expected to be sent out on August 25, 2023.
