The problem
Mercedes-benz is recalling 52,740 my 2006-2008 gl and ml class vehicles equipped with flex-n-gate trailer hitch. Some of the weld seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer hitch to the body frame do not meet performance specifications.
The risk
This may result in the traile rhitch receiver separating from the attachment bar, creating a road hazard which may lead to a vehicle crash. The trailer hitch must not be used for any purpose until it has been repaired.
The fix
Dealers will repair the trailer hitch. The recall began on june 16, 2008. Owenrs may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Contacts
Mercedes-benz recall no. 2008050004. Customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Mercedes Benz dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 08V242000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.