The problem
Daimler Vans USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500 vehicles. If the manual turn-switch that activates the vehicle lights is turned quickly from one lighting position to another, the brightness of the taillights can be significantly reduced or could switch off completely.
The risk
Reduced taillight visibility increases the risk of a crash.
The fix
MBUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will update the body control unit software, free of charge. The recall began September 30, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is VS3HELI.
Contacts
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to 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 Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 19V591000.
- 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.