Braking problems cause Mercedes-Benz to issue do-not-drive order

Robert Besser
17 May 2022, 04:48 GMT+10

Mercedes-Benz USA has requested drivers to stop driving some of their autos immediately due to braking problems
The announcement was made May 12, asking owners of 292,000 ML, GL and R-Class vehicles from the 2006 through 2012 model years to stop driving their autos, which will be recalled for repairs
However, there have been no crashes, injuries or deaths related to the braking problem, said Mercedes-Benz USA

ATLANTA, Georgia: Mercedes-Benz USA has requested drivers to stop driving some of their autos immediately due to braking problems.

The announcement was made May 12, asking owners of 292,000 ML, GL and R-Class vehicles from 2006 through 2012 model years to stop driving their autos, which will be recalled for repairs.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Mercedes-Benz issued a voluntary "do not drive" recall because of potentially corroded brake boosters, which could severely affect braking capabilities and increase the risks of crashes.

However, there have been no crashes, injuries or deaths related to the braking problem, said Mercedes-Benz USA, adding that it will offer complimentary towing to owners of affected vehicles, as well as coordinate alternate transportation if a repair is needed.

Vehicles with no signs of advanced corrosion may continue to be driven with no further action, while vehicles with advanced corrosion will undergo additional tests, the NHTSA said, adding that vehicles that pass the test may be driven for up to two years, but must return for additional repairs, while those that do not pass will require a brake booster replacement.

"In rare cases of very severe corrosion, a particularly strong or hard braking maneuver could cause mechanical damage in the brake booster, whereby the connection between the brake pedal and brake system would fail. In that instance, it would not be possible to slow or stop the vehicle via the service brake," added NHTSA officials.