Laguna Hills, Calif., January 9, 2019 – Mercedes Benz USA, LLC is recalling certain 2018 S560 and S450 vehicles. Affected vehicles may have front brake components, including the brake discs, calipers and pads, that have different dimensions than what was specified for the vehicle. The issue falls under the category of Light Vehicle Brake Systems.

The Defect

Affected vehicles were manufactured with a front braking system that has smaller dimensions than what was specified for S560 and S450 vehicles. The issue occurred as a result of inaccurate documentation at a production facility. According to Mercedes Benz, the defect poses no imminent safety harm and the smaller braking system still meets federal standards. However, incorrectly sized brake components may lead to incorrect replacement parts being used during vehicle brake repairs. This could create potential safety problems in the future, including an increased likelihood of crashing.

Timeline of Events

In June, 2019, Mercedes Benz USA’s After Sales Division received a field report from a workshop located outside of the U.S., notifying them of a possible variance between the dimensions of a vehicle’s braking system and its intended specifications. Further investigation by Mercedes Benz determined the cause of the issue. An affected population was established through production records. In September 2019, the company determined that braking systems with smaller dimensions had also been installed in other models.

As a result of the investigation, Mercedes Benz began testing the smaller braking systems to make sure that they could operate safely in the affected vehicles. While Mercedes Benz concluded that the error did not result in any violations of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, the company was concerned about potential non-compliance with local legal requirements.

On December 13, 2019, Mercedes Benz USA decided to conduct a voluntary recall.

The Solution

Affected owners can have their vehicle’s front axle brake system replaced by a certified Mercedes Benz dealer. Components that will need to be replaced include the TS Brake pads, both the left and right Brake Caliper and both the left and right Brake Discs. Mercedes Benz USA does not plan to pre-notice reimbursement to owners because all of the replacements are covered by Mercedes Benz’s new vehicle warranty.

The issue was replaced in production on May 16, 2018. Vehicles produced after that date will be free of the defect. As a part of the recall, Mercedes Benz will be required to submit six consecutive quarterly status reports to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with the first report due within 30 days of the end of the quarter.

Mercedes Benz dealers were notified of the voluntary recall on December 27, 2019. The company plans to notify affected owners on February 14, 2020.

For more information about this and other safety recalls, visit motorsafety.org.