The Rear Axle Drivetrain Assembly failed. Specifically, a critical structural fastener (bolt) associated with NHTSA Recall #25V090 (MBUSA #2025020010) completely detached from the rear axle. The vehicle is currently in my possession and the failed component/repair is photographed. The detachment of this structural bolt caused a complete loss of propulsion while the vehicle was in a commercial driveway. Had this occurred minutes earlier during my 500-mile round trip on the I-95 highway, it would have resulted in a catastrophic drivetrain separation or axle lock-up at highway speeds (65+ mph). This posed a fatal risk to myself, my passengers, and other motorists. The failure was confirmed and documented by an independent service center (Crown Auto, [XXX] ) and subsequently confirmed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer (Mercedes-Benz of White Plains). White Plains issued a strict "Do Not Drive" order and dispatched emergency roadside assistance to transport the vehicle. The vehicle has been inspected by Mercedes-Benz of White Plains (authorized manufacturer representative) and Crown Auto. I have photographic evidence of the failed component prior to the re-repair. Mercedes-Benz of El Cajon (the originating dealer) has also been provided with photographic evidence but has refused to acknowledge the failure. No warning lamps or messages appeared prior to the failure. The first symptom was a complete loss of propulsion and a "spinning" sensation from the rear axle upon arriving in Queens. This lack of warning is particularly dangerous as the vehicle gave no indication of the impending structural failure during a 500-mile highway journey. The Service Director at the originating dealership, Ernie Serrano, initially denied the existence of the safety recall in writing and subsequently suggested that I misrepresent the nature of the failure to avoid a 'failed recall' record. This suggests a systemic attempt to hide safety-critical repair failures from the manufacturer a INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INF
- NHTSA ID
- 11735959
- Incident
- Apr 13, 2026