Car had a burning smell when entered and so stopped the car and had it towed to the dealership on 9/20/26 (Mercedes Benz of Laguna Niguel). Dealer said that a "liquid beverage were spilled onto the rear passenger seat are, resulting in liquid intrusion and a short circuit at the rear SAM control unit. This caused multiple vehicle malfunctions and a burning odor." A spilt beverage, not even a lot of liquid, caused a potential electrical fire in the car. This is not ok and a potential safety concern. Technician said this can happen again if a drink is spilled in the car.
- NHTSA ID
- 11766383
- Incident
- Sep 19, 2026