2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43

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.

On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles.The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic degradation leading to replacement of the panel, a procedure which entails: removal of the old panel and adhesive, site preparation, and installation of a replacement panel with new adhesive.The consumer complaints that prompted the opening of PE21-001 all described detachments of front roof panels that had been replaced after the vehicle was put into service.Mercedes' internal investigation identified a broader scope of affected vehicles (2014-2020 CLA, GLA, C, S, GLC, and GLE class) and found the following potential service procedure- related causes of front roof panel detachments:- Improper surface pretreatments such as the use of the wrong primer or cleaner or scoring of the surface; or - Use of the incorrect adhesive.These conditions lead to a front roof panel bond that, even if sound at the time of repair, cannot maintain its strength over time and environmental exposure.Mercedes updated its service and parts ordering systems to reinforce the proper use of specified kits and procedures via webinars, shop foreman meetings, and explicit reference to the risks incurred by diverging from the repair procedures. Mercedes is also furnishing parts ordering assistance, and will hold dealerships accountable for improper repairs.ODI's analysis of the ten complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and MBUSA's complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for PE21-001 identified a total of 57 non-duplicative reports alleging incidents in which the front roof panel detached from the vehicle while in motion. Included within the 57 reports are incidents where consumers state the panel detached ...and flew off into traffic.On March 19, 2021, Mercedes notified NHTSA that it would recall subject vehicles with front roof panels known to have been replaced after the original sale of the vehicle. In total, the recall (designated as Recall 21V197) covers 15,099 vehicles that were ever registered in the United States. Based on Recall 21V197 and the remedy implemented by Mercedes, further investigation does not appear to be warranted at this time.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.nhtsa.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11376425, 11352686, 11351629, 11349158, 11341541, 11337594, 11324100, 11311591, 11222127, 11404183

In May 2023 a black plastic portion of the roof blew off the car. The plastic part that blew off was around the sunroof. There was no wind or blow to the car or anything like that; there was no prior warning or error message; there were no symptoms in advance. The part simply blew off the vehicle. The part is not available for inspection. Others were put at risk because the portion that blew off could have hit them or their vehicles. If the parts obstructed someone's view, there could have been an accident. The dealer has inspected and recently repaired the vehicle and can confirm the incident. No others such as the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives have inspected the vehicle.

NHTSA ID

11538701

Incident

May 4, 2023

On May 14, 2023, with a little over 44,000 well-kept miles and under normal driving conditions, my 2018 GLC43 AMG blew smoke out the rear and soon after presented pooling oil under the transmission/engine area. Upon inspection by a reputable transmission repair specialist, AAMCO in Los Angeles, it was determined that the cause of the issue was a broken bolt head in the torque converter, resulting in significant internal damage. The bolt's failure was suspected to be the result of a manufacturing defect, as it is highly unlikely for such a crucial component to fail under normal operating conditions. The process to identify and rectify this issue involved dropping the transmission, inspecting for damage, replacing the torque converter with a new Mercedes-Benz part, and replacing all four torque converter bolts to ensure no further defects were present. Lastly, the transmission had to be resealed using a factory kit, refilled, and reinstalled. This all amounted to a significant total of $5,100 including parts and labor. This does not include the additional ~$500 spent on a rental car during the lengthy repair period.

NHTSA ID

11527446

Incident

May 14, 2023

Hi, Improper gear shifting. Vehicle engine light comes on with Error Code P073E, "reverse gear cannot be engaged" Vehicle would shift gear back into neutral position when put to Drive. When vehicle is able to be put in gear Reverse or Drive, a loud noise and shaking would occur. When driven, vehicle is in Limp Mode and can only go up of Gear 5. (this is a 9G Tronic, 9 gears in total) As I was backing up into street from a parking stall, I was not able to put the vehicle in Drive to proceed forward. Traffic was building up. Driver panicked. But finally was able to put it in Drive after a minute or so in the middle of the streets.

NHTSA ID

11520254

Incident

Apr 24, 2023

Panoramic Sunroof exploded while driving out of the blue. No other cars in front of me or near me. Nothing hit it.

NHTSA ID

11470961

Incident

Jun 25, 2022

I was involved in a minor collision with a deer. I was driving alone and the deer hit my front passenger side. The airbags deployed. The knee bag completely destroyed the flesh on my entire right shin. It is one giant open wound that will take months to heal. I am short so I sit close to the dash. Had this knee bag not deployed I would have no injuries from the incident. The main airbag caused no damage so I feel I sit far enough away from that one. I am now scared to drive a vehicle with knee bags for fear of a repeat injury. I believe the knee bag is not safe for shorter people.

NHTSA ID

11422863

Incident

Jun 13, 2021

THIS VEHICLE IS BEING SOLD WITH ALL-SEASON TIRES AND NO SPARE TIRE OR FLAT TIRE INFLATOR KIT. WE EXPERIENCED A FLAT TIRE AND WERE STRANDED FOR SEVERAL HOURS WITH NOW WAY TO CHANGE OUR FLAT TIRE. MERCEDES OFFERS MBRACE EMERGENCY SERVICE, BUT THIS TOOK LONG TO RESPOND. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD COME WITH RUN FLAT TIRES AND OR A WAY TO INFLATE A FLAT.

NHTSA ID

11113193

Incident

Jun 28, 2018

Mileage

5,000 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 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.

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 (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). 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 areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). 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.