Nearly 745,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles have been recalled for defective sunroof assemblies that can come off when the vehicle is in motion. According to a report by The Drive, in some coupes and sedans made by the German automaker, the sunroof assembly can detach from the glass, allowing it to fly off of the car. This recall affects Mercedes-Benz cars made between 2001 and 2011, adding up to nearly 750,000 vehicles overall. The issue relates specifically to all trims of the following models: 2003-2009 E-Class, 2007-2011 CLS-Class, 2001-2007 C-Class, and the 2003-2009 CLK-Class.
Details of the Recall
The automaker began investigating the issue in 2017 after several vehicle owners reported sunroofs detaching from their vehicles. There have been no reports of injuries or car accidents relating to the sunroof problem. But the detached glass panels could become a road hazard. There is no word on whether any other vehicles may be included in this recall in the future, but this issue took several years to become apparent.
Vehicle owners can enter their vehicle identification numbers or VINs on the automaker’s recall site to find out if their vehicle has been affected. The company is expected to contact owners by mid-February, and to fix the defective roofs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently levied a $20 million fine against Mercedes-Benz for its poor handling of numerous recalls. Vehicle owners can also check NHTSA’s website by using their VIN to see if their vehicles have been recalled.
Auto Product Liability Issues
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently levied a $20 million fine against Mercedes-Benz for its poor handling of numerous recalls. The automaker agreed to a $20 million civil penalty, with $7 million deferred, over its handling of vehicle recalls after a year-long government investigation into 1.4 million recalled vehicles. NHTSA said Mercedes-Benz USA failed to notify owners in a timely fashion in some recalls, did not submit all reports and did not launch at least two recalls in a timely fashion.
Automakers are required to manufacture vehicles and parts that are safe. When vehicles are unsafe for consumers, auto manufacturers must recall them promptly. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of an auto defect, you may be able to file an auto product liability lawsuit against the automaker and other parties. An experienced auto defect attorney will be able to advise victims regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.thedrive.com/news/31727/nearly-745000-mercedes-benz-vehicles-recalled-over-loose-sunroof-assemblies
