2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

I have a 2018 Mercedes Benz c63 amg which I purchased new in 2018. I have only 61,230 miles yesterday 11/10/2025 it started making a loud noise coming from the right rear. I drove to the Mercedes dealership in Belmont,Ca the technician mechanic told me that the rear differential was bad and need to be replace. Cost $7,000. I don't understand only 61,230 miles why did it go out so soon I always had the maintenance done. My warranty has expired. I did some research and found that there was a recall for 2018 Mercedes Benz c63 amg related to the rear differential. The recall was issued due to potential issues with the rear differential that could lead to a loss power to the rear wheels, increasing the risk of a crash. Owners were advised to contact their local dealerships for repairs or replacements as necessary.

NHTSA ID

11700378

Incident

Nov 10, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63. The contact stated while attempting to refuel the vehicle, the fuel tank door would not open unless the excessive force was used. The failure occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel tank door failure was a known manufacturing failure. The fuel tank door was replaced by the dealer on several occasions but the failure recurred. The vehicle was temporarily repaired with wiring to prevent the fuel tank door from closing. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

NHTSA ID

11606763

Incident

Feb 15, 2021

Mileage

20,000 mi

This NCU replaces the prior NCU issued on May 15, 2025, and contains additional MY 2023 and MY 2024 vehicles which are highlighted below. In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (“MBUSA”) is extending the warranty coverage on the Diagnostic Module for Tank Leakage detection (DMTL) in certain Model Year (“MY”) vehicles listed below from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years/50,000 miles to 10 years/120,000 miles (vehicles certified as LEV II) and 15 years/150,000 miles (vehicles certified as LEV III), whichever occurs first, for the following condition: •Under certain circumstances, the DMTL may trigger erroneous Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) entries that may result in the illumination of the Check Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (‘MIL’).

Complaint Check Engine Light ON with DTC P012800 "The Coolant Temperature is Below the Specified Temperature" active and/or stored in the ME (N3/10). There are no drivability concerns related to this complaint. Cause Root cause varies Remedy Prior to performing any repairs for this complaint: With a cold engine, pressurize the high temp coolant circuit and while it's under pressure, release the cap on the low temp coolant circuit and check if the pressure drops right away or not. If the pressure drops, the lower coolant hoses are swapped. Correct this, fill, bleed and test drive the vehicle. If the complaint returns, then continue with the steps below. IMPORTANT: Use VMI to check for the following emission extended warranty –> Engine Thermostat (incl. software update) MY19-23, Various Models and Platforms (167, 190, 205, 213, 217, 222, 223, 232, 253, 290, 463) If the vehicle is covered under the above emission extended warranty, please perform steps outlined in the accompanying NCU prior to those outlined in this document. If vehicle is not covered under the above emission extended warranty or the complaint continues to occur, then proceed as follows: Check for available software updates to the ME (N3/10). If updated software is available, perform the update, clear the DTC and the perform each of the "WARM START" and "COLD START" test drives listed below twice. If the code does not re-appear then release the vehicle. If there is no new software available OR the DTC returns after the test drives then perform the following steps: • Drain the coolant through a fine mesh sieve and check for signs of debris. Additionally, inspect the coolant reservoir for debris. If any debris is found take pictures of the reservoir and the mesh filter and "flush" the system at least 2-3 times to clear as much of the debris as possible • Replace the thermostat and bleed the system as outlined in AR20.00-P-1142-04A, evacuate the system for 20-30 minutes instead of the 5 minutes specified in step 22 • NOTE: Please use all the tools specified in the AR document. The DTC will continue to populate if the circuit is not properly bled • NOTE: There are two valid thermostats to choose from in the parts section of this LI. Please verify which PN is applicable for the vehicle being worked on via XENTRY Parts Information • After bleeding the system clear the DTC and perform each of the "WARM START" and "COLD START" test drives listed below twice. If the DTC does not reappear after the tests, release the vehicle If the ME (N3/10) software is up to date, the thermostat has already been replaced, and the complaint persists open a TIPS case and attach the following documents: • Initial quick test • ME (N3/10) control unit log • The results of an R48 test from a “yes” response and from a “no” response • Pictures of the coolant reservoir and mesh sieve (mentioned above) WARM START · Begin with the engine coolant temperature at approximately 50 degrees C · Activate the AC system, if defrost is not in use open the windows · Drive the car normally until a coolant temperature of 75 degrees C is achieved · Depress the accelerator pedal 50% for ~5 seconds (partial acceleration) · Let off the accelerator pedal and let the car coast for ~10 seconds · Continue to drive the car normally COLD START · Drive for ~7 miles (normal driving) · Shut off the engine in a parking lot (or similar), wait 30 seconds, then restart and continue driving · Depress the accelerator pedal 50% for ~5 seconds (partial acceleration) · Let off the accelerator pedal and let the car coast for ~10 seconds · Continue to drive the car normally

Complaint Crackling and cracking noise from the outer wheel on the front axle when cornering Cause The noise is generated by a micromovement on the contact surface between the rim and the brake disk (wheel bolt group) and may be intensified by potential soiling. The more lightweight rim (AMG forged rim) transmits the noise louder; in the case of cast rims, the noise is generally not perceptible. This is not a technical defect, but rather a complaint concerning comfort. Safe operation of the vehicle is ensured at all times. Remedy Important note: The operations described below do not represent a permanent remedy in every case. The noise may reoccur again after an indefinite period of time; sanding the rims with abrasive media multiple times is not permissible. Only cleaning using the Hazet tool 4960-160 (recommendation) can be performed without any concerns each time the wheel is changed or if the complaint reoccurs. Replacing the parts (rim, wheel bolts, wheel bearings, wheel hub, brake disk) is not expedient in the event of this complaint. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Clean the components of the wheel bolt connection according to the WIS instructions Sand down the rim and brake disk bowl by performing the following steps: • Manually sand rim (old design only) in area of water drain bores (Figure 1; item A), approx. 1.5 cm left and right of water drain bore (Figure 2) Note: Use abrasive paper with grit size 80. The grooving in this area should no longer be visible (sand down approx. 0.1-0.2mm) • Also sand brake disk bowl using emery cloth or abrasive paper with a grain size of 120 • For vehicles equipped with the AMG ceramic brake system (B07), abrasive paper may not be used for cleaning on the brake disk side Note: Do not use any cleaning agent when cleaning on the rim side. Cleaning using abrasive paper with a grain size of 80 will suffice. Do not apply any grease, lubricant or paste after cleaning The brake disk bowl should be "bare metal" in the area of the imprints made by the hole (Figure 3)

Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by experimentally loosening the outboard collar nut (by 1 turn), the problem is due to cracking of the microweld between the wheel bearing inner race and the joint housing of the side shaft. Note: The collar nut must always be replaced after being loosened. See also LI33.20-P-078406 Remedy Coat contact surface of side shaft with wheel bearing with Molykote paint. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Remove side shafts 2. Clean contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing before") before coating with Molykote, using "spirit" (free of dust and grease) 3. Coat contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing after") with Molykote and leave to dry for "one hour" in removed condition 4. Reinstall side shafts Note: Before using the antifriction coating (Molykote), stir it or shake it thoroughly for (at least 1 minute).

Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comparison. MUST match noise for proper diagnosis. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. See also: LI35.30-P-058566 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Rear) LI33.30-P-056665 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Front) LI40.10-P-059248 (Wheel cracking noise when cornering) Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present after re-testing: • If 192/232 chassis, verify FIN is in the listed range below in "Operation B" and perform. • If not 192/232 chassis or vehicle is a 192/232 not in the listed FIN range, additional verifications of where the noise is coming from are needed. Use multiple channel NVH method to narrow down location. Verify the LI's listed above were completed or if there are other similar noises associated with the chassis (Example: 192/232 also has under panel noises and an associated LI). Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner as seen in the attached pictures. NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing, steering knuckle, and axle mating face with Molykote (annular joint grease). See the attached steering knuckle and wheel hub pictures for reference. NOTE: Axle mating face greasing is also covered in LI35.30-P-058566 and LI33.30-P-056665. Operation B (Only applies to 192 and 232 in listed FIN range): Only affects vehicles up to FIN end number: • Model series 192: xxx xxx xx 002 876 • Model series 232: xxx xxx xx 022 312 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.

Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 9, 2026. After July 9th, returns of these parts will no longer be accepted. These parts should be returned via ZSR Special Return, using item category SCM Authorized Part Return. Please include a copy of this NCU as your authorization to return these parts. This procedure will not affect your return allowance. All returned parts will be replaced in accordance with the chart provided below.