Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has recalled nearly 2,000 vehicles due to a concern with the fitted brake booster.
The recall affects 1,982 ML-Class, GL-Class and R-Class models built between 2005 and 2013.
Mercedes says they have identified that the “function of the brake booster could be affected by advanced corrosion in the joint area of the housing.”
“After extended time in the field and in conjunction with significant water exposure, this corrosion might lead to a leakage of the brake booster,” Mercedes says.
“In this case, the brake force support might be reduced, leading to an increase in the brake pedal force required from the driver to decelerate the vehicle and/or to a potentially increased stopping distance.
“This may be accompanied by a hissing or airflow noise when applying the brake.”
In severe cases, Mercedes admits the issue can increase the risk of an accident.
Affected owners should already have been made aware of the recall. They are asked to not drive their vehicles until an inspection has happened.
“We deeply regret any resulting inconvenience,” Mercedes concludes. “[But we] consider it our duty to act consistently and decisively in line with our brand promise.”
Affected vehicle models by model year:
| WDC164 | ML 280 CDI | 2007-2010 |
| WDC164 | ML 300 CDI | 2010-2011 |
| WDC164 | ML 350 CDI | 2005-2012 |
| WDC164 | ML 350 | 2005-2012 |
| WDC164 | ML 420 CDI | 2006-2010 |
| WDC164 | ML 500 | 2005-2012 |
| WDC164 | ML 63 AMG | 2006-2011 |
| WDC164 | GL 320 CDI | 2006-2011 |
| WDC164 | GL 350 CDI | 2011-2012 |
| WDC164 | GL 450 CDI | 2006-2013 |
| WDC164 | GL 500 | 2006-2012 |
| WDC251 | R 320 CDI | 2006-2011 |
| WDC251 | R 350 | 2006-2012 |
| WDC251 | R 500 | 2006-2008 |
| WDC251 | R 63 AMG | 2006-2010 |
| WDC251 | R 350 CDI | 2010-2013 |
