Montvale, N.J. – Mar. 09, 2017 – Mercedes Benz USA has recalled more than 1,000 vehicles due to defective air bags, according to documentation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall impacts a variety of models produced between August and November 2016, including:

• CLA 250 and 250 4Matic sports sedans
• E 400 and 400 4Matic coupes
• E 550 coupes
• E 400 and 550 Cabriolet convertibles
• E 300 and 300 4Matic sedans
• GLA 250 and 250 4Matic sports utility vehicles

The Defect

The propellant mix ratio within air bag igniters in the affected vehicles is unbalanced and does not meet manufacturer expectations. Although primarily a question of vehicle quality, this problem can hinder air bag operation and even halt deployment of these crash safety tools. Pelvic  and front passenger-side airbags are particularly vulnerable to this defect. There have been no reported injuries related to the mix propellant problem.

Timeline of Events

In November last year, the OEM parts supplier Autoliv reported that some of its air bag module igniters did not comport with internal quality standards. One month later, Autoliv issued a parts recall via the NHTSA. Engineers at Daimler AG, Mercedes’ parent company, reviewed the recall and production records to pinpoint potentially affected models. In January, the automaker performed further tests to ascertain the extent of the issue. In early February, Daimler AG officials determined that the defect presented a risk to drivers and issued an official recall.

Dealers were notified soon after this determination was made.

The Solution

Daimler AG has instructed dealers to inspect potentially affected vehicles and install new air bag module igniters, free of charge, according to an internal NHTSA communication. All models are covered under the Mercedes new vehicle limited warranty. Owners should receive confirmation of the recall in early March.