Mercedes

Jun 17, 2024

The recall will fix an issue with the brakes that could lead to a crash if left unrepaired

Mercedes-Benz is recalling more than 292,000 GL-, ML-, and R-Class SUVs from the 2006 through 2012 model years because of a potential problem with the brakes. Owners of vehicles included in the recall should not drive them until the free recall repair has been performed.

According to the automaker, prolonged exposure to water could result in some braking components becoming damaged, which could result in either reduced braking performance or total brake failure. The driver may need to press harder on the brake pedal, or the brakes might not work at all.

Both of these situations can lead to a crash and potential injuries. Only certain GL-, ML-, and R-Class vehicles are included in the recall. The foot-operated parking brake is not affected by this problem.

Drivers may notice a change in the brake pedal feel and/or a hissing or airflow noise when applying the brakes, if the vehicle is developing the problem.

The automaker began its investigation in July 2021 after a report of a customer from outside the U.S. experiencing reduced braking during a stop. After conducting numerous field studies and tests, including discovery of a single similar situation in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Association of the recall on May 5, 2022.

Mercedes-Benz says that there are no crashes, injuries, or deaths related to the defect.

Vehicles recalled: 292,287 Mercedes-Benz SUVs

2007 Mercedes-Benz AMG R632007-2009 Mercedes-Benz GL3202010-2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 2007-2012 Mercedes-Benz GL450 2008-2012 Mercedes-Benz GL5502007-2009 Mercedes-Benz ML3202006-2011 Mercedes-Benz ML3502010-2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450 2006-2007 Mercedes-Benz ML500 2008-2011 Mercedes-Benz ML550 2007-2009 Mercedes-Benz R320 2006-2007 Mercedes-Benz R500 2007-2011 Mercedes-Benz AMG ML63 2006-2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 2008 Mercedes-Benz R550

The problem: Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which increases braking force when the driver presses on the brake pedal. If this happens, the driver may experience reduced brake performance or brake failure.

The fix: The dealer will inspect the brake booster housing on the affected vehicles. Vehicles that do not exhibit advanced corrosion may continue to be driven with no further action. Vehicles that show advanced corrosion will have an additional test performed to ensure the functionality of the brake booster. Vehicles that pass the additional test may be driven for up to two years but must return for an additional repair. Vehicles that do not pass the additional test will require a brake booster replacement.

The stop-drive notice will remain in effect for these vehicles until the brake booster is replaced. In the event a repair is necessary and cannot be carried out immediately, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will help coordinate an individual solution for the customer, including alternate mobility.

How to contact the manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners via mail starting May 27, 2022. Owners of affected vehicles may call Mercedes-Benz at 800-367-6372.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V315.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle by using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.