Pleasanton, CA – August 15, 2020 – Daimler AG (OTCMKTS:DDAIF), the owner of the Mercedes-Benz brand, has recalled 10,644 compact SUVs whose spoilers may detach from the car while driving. The recall covers 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 SUVs.

Recall summary  

The recall concerns the rear spoiler, which may not be fully attached to the car. The spoiler, which sits above the tailgate, was not fully welded due to a production error. 

Mercedes-Benz launched an investigation into the defect in March, following a customer complaint. The automaker discovered missing welding on the spoiler. The investigation traced the defect back to a supplier in Mexico.

Risks

The defective spoilers, which could detach while driving can become an obstacle in the roadway, forcing drivers to make quick maneuvers that could result in a crash. The fly-away spoilers may also directly hit  another vehicle.

Between 2011 and 2014, road debris played a role  in around 200,000 crashes  and caused close to 40,000 injuries and 500 deaths, according to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.  Over 75,000 of those crashes were caused by debris flying off of one vehicle and striking another.  

Can you tell?

GLB250 owners may be able to tell that their spoiler is loose if they hear a noise when they open the trunk or see scratches in the paint on the tailgate. They may also see that the spoiler simply does not seem to fit right. Drivers noticing these issues should contact their dealer.

The repair

Authorized dealers will check the SUV’s rear spoilers and replace them if they’re not fully attached.  Owners will be notified about the recall on around October 20. The repair – as with all recalls – is free of charge.

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

Over 10,000 vehicles are included in this Mercedes-Benz recall. To see if your car is one of them, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.