2018 Mercedes-Benz S 450

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

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear shifter independently shifted into neutral. The contact had to hold down the gear shifter for about 30 seconds before the system was reset. Additionally, the check engine warning light was later illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission valve body failure. The contact was informed that the transmission valve body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.

NHTSA ID

11637720

Incident

Dec 22, 2024

Mileage

89,000 mi

I was driving on highway on 7/26 Friday in exit lane when my panoramic sunroof exploded and shattered on me while driving. It sounded like a shogun. Some of the glass came in on me and other part flew out vehicle causing paint damage. I inspected car there was no impact from anything (ie rock, branch etc). It was a clear sunny dry day no vehicles in front that would have kicked up an object no impact whatsoever. I made to my house 3 miles away and there is no impact after inspection i have insurance adjuster coming Monday 7/29. I checked internet and have heard of others stating same experience. I looked at NHTSA site and my car doesn’t look like it was part of a national recall notice. Very frightening situation a more inexperienced driver may have not handled the situation.

NHTSA ID

11604856

Incident

Jul 26, 2024

Steering wheel became extremely stiff to turn and a message that read “steering malfunction increase physical effort” appeared while driving at around 30 mph while in a vacation trip, not only was this extremely unsettling since it happened suddenly but I had to act fast to avoid a collision with other vehicles, once I made it to a safe location I shut the vehicle off and restarted after 15 minutes and it seem drivable again but left me extremely concerned as I am 500 miles away from with no dealerships open to have it looked since is Memorial Day.

NHTSA ID

11524278

Incident

May 28, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact attempted to depress the brake; however, the vehicle failed to decelerate and slow as needed. The contact stated that the brakes failed to work as needed. The contact stated that the “Service Required” message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with electronic parking brake failure. The manufacture was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

NHTSA ID

11509829

Incident

Feb 28, 2023

Mileage

40,000 mi

I’m reporting this safety concern and seeking advisement from those more knowledgeable than myself on this issue. Recently, as I attempted to actuate the brake of my vehicle. My right foot was entangled with the brake pedal as I moved it from the acceleration pedal to the brake pedal in observance of a “Stop Sign.” I barely avoided what surely would have been a catastrophic collision with another vehicle. The incident occurred in a split second. The shoe of my right foot was entangled with the lower right corner of the underside of the brake pedal, which has a protruding sharp thin metal edge. The sharp thin metal edge impeded the performance my right leg as it dug into my shoe’s sole edge and the leather upper. In my opinion the sharp thin metal edge of the underside of the brake pedal as described herein is a dangerous and extremely problematic issue. After the recent incident, I am consumed with concern, trepidation and fear when operating the vehicle. During the excitement of the near collision, my wife made an audible gasp, and in the split second I struggled to free my shoe and foot to avoid a potentially fatal crash. I barely freed my foot and shoe in time enough to successfully bring my vehicle to a halt. My wife and I narrowly averted a life changing, potentially deadly accident.

NHTSA ID

11509192

Incident

Feb 18, 2023

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MERCEDES-BENZ S450. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING ACTIVATED ON ITS OWN IN TRAFFIC. THE CONTACT HAD TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO DISENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL IN ORDER TO DRIVE SAFELY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF ALEXANDRIA (200 S PICKETT ST, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22304, (703) 341-2100) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,826.

NHTSA ID

11217774

Incident

May 22, 2019

Mileage

49,826 mi

THE PRE-COLLISION SAFETY FEATURE GOES OFF WHEN THERE IS NO COLLISION IMMINENT. IT IS FRIGHTENING AND COULD ACTUALLY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.

NHTSA ID

11053437

Incident

Nov 23, 2017

Mileage

850 mi

Complaint During part of the steering movement, it feels heavier or more difficult to steer in the same spot every time. OR Rattling, humming, dry sliding/gravel noise from the electric steering system when steering (see attachment). Complaint does not impact the ability to safely steer or control the vehicle. Cause Ball screw drive (KGT) of electric steering damaged by: 1. External force due to: ‑ Hitting the curb/posts with the front wheels. ‑ Driving over obstacles (e.g. pothole/ threshold/ speed bump/ gully) at an inappropriate speed. 2. Corrosion/ water ingress through a damaged boot (see attachment). ‑ Cracks (1) ‑ High pressure cleaner (2) ‑ Animal bite (3) See various examples listed in the attachments for examples of outside influence. Remedy Remove boot clamps closest to steering gear housing on both left and right (as seen in "Steering Rack Boot Clamp Location"). Pull back boot and inspect for rust, broken end stops, water, or any other anomalies. Replace electric steering. Note: Steering gears replaced due to outside influence or damage must not be claimed under warranty!

Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so that the tailgate no longer opens as a result of a long press on the button, but by double‑clicking on the button instead. This reduces the likelihood of the button being activated accidentally or unintentionally. The recoding can be carried out as follows: 1. Add SA Code O19 into VeDoc (O for Oscar, not "zero") • an XSS ticket may be necessary to add the SA code 2. Perform SCN coding of EIS N73 control unit 3. Deactivate the vehicle key (a successful deactivation is indicated by the LED lighting up 2x briefly and then 1x for a long period). 4. Place the vehicle key in the storage compartment on the key symbol and turn on the ignition. IMPORTANT: all other vehicle keys must be outside the recognition range of the vehicle when doing this! Perform steps 3 and 4 successively for all vehicle keys. Notes: 6th, 7th and 8th generation keys can be deactivated as follows: Up to modification year 22/1 by double clicking the "Lock button" As of modification year 22/1, by press and holding the “Lock button", then double‑click the “Unlock button" at the same time. On model series 167, the storage compartment with the key symbol is located in the armrest. The SCN coding from the EZS is only transferred correctly to the vehicle key under the following conditions: Only one vehicle key is located in the vehicle, this key has been deactivated and it is positioned on the marking in the storage compartment for the data transfer. The costs for this adaptation are to be borne by the customer. For the newer BR 174, 178, 244, 248, 520, and 540, a software update must be initiated, as there is no way to perform SCN coding.

Dear Mercedes-Benz Owner: In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA is extending the warranty coverage for the Diagnostic Module for Tank Leakage Detection ("DMTL") on your vehicle from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years / 50,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles (whichever occurs first). This applies to the vehicle regardless of ownership. Why the Warranty extension? On certain Model Year 2018 - 2024 A / C / CLA / CLS / E / G / GLA / GLB / GLC / GLE / GLS / GT / S / SL Mercedes-Benz vehicles, 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"). Any repairs under this warranty extension must be performed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership. • If your preferred authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership performs a diagnosis and confirms that your vehicle has the issue, the repair will be covered under this extended warranty and performed at no cost to you. • This extended warranty does not apply to any other components or conditions beyond the ones mentioned above, and standard warranty terms apply, including the exclusions with respect to extra expenses, as identified in the Service and Warranty Information booklet.

Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis working towards the speaker and if necessary, create a TIPS case with an informative video as an attachment. Information: Please refer to this document in the warranty claim and, after completing diagnosis, select the damage code corresponding to the component part that caused the problem. • If the noise stops when the door trim is removed, please proceed in accordance with LI72.10-P-067691. Information: In this case, do not use a damage code for the speakers in the warranty claim!

Complaint A popup is seen on the HU with the message "data connection temporarily not available". Potentially affected functionalities in NTG4.5, NTG5 1.Weather 2.Local Search 3.IP Radio 4.Send2Car 5.Speech Detection Service 6.Navigation 7.iHeartRadio 8.Traffic Cams Cause MB Apps is sundowned for all vehicles with NTG4.5 and NTG5 Head Unit Variant. Remedy No support available for NTG4.5 and NTG5 Head Unit Variants for MB App related topics. Note: Please do not create TIPS. Please do not replace any components. HU/Hermes SW update / SCN coding will not fix the issue.

Complaint This document is intended as a pre-case diagnostic reference for transmission related concerns. It will also ensure that if a case is necessary, all supporting documentation is available. This should not be used on its own as justification for creating a TIPS case. Cause The root cause will vary depending on the complaint. The goal of this document is to provide diagnostic checks and procedures that may help resolve customer complaints without opening a TIPS case. Remedy Before opening a transmission-related TIPS case, the following steps must be performed to ensure all relevant data has been collected and possible remedies (when applicable) have been performed. Please Note: At minimum, the documents below must be collected before proceeding to ensure the data in its original state when the vehicle arrived is captured. - Initial Quick Test w/ Freeze frame data - VGS Control Unit Log - Initial EEPROM data (.txt format) - IPR Result (if applicable. See LI27.00-P-073124 - Transmission diagnosis using the Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) tool) - Transmission Heath Page If the vehicle has previously been repaired for the same concern, note the date, mileage, and TIPS case or RO number, along with a brief description of the prior work performed. IPR Guidance: The IPR recommended repair should be completed prior to following any steps in this LI and prior to case creation. IPR repairs do not require additional warranty approvals or a TIPS case to validate/confirm the results. To ensure efficient case handling, please avoid opening TIPS cases for this reason. For further information regarding IPR please see the following documents: LI27.00-P-073124 - Transmission diagnosis using the Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) tool Oil Pan Condition Evaluation: In some situations, IPR will advise checking the oil pan condition and determining a repair based on the evaluation. Example photos in Xentry can be found in two ways: • Use the blue hyperlink in the IPR result, and it will take you to the Condition check of transmission oil • Navigate to Xentry Bluebook > Help for control unit > Condition check of transmission oil If a different repair that what is recommended by IPR is performed, attaching photo documentation of the complaint vehicle oil pan and the IPR example to the claim is required. Reproducing the Concern: Proper evaluation of transmission concerns generally requires the condition to be reproducible. It is recommended to compare the vehicle to a similar model, if available, to help determine whether the shift behavior is characteristic of the drivetrain or uncharacteristic for the vehicle. If the concern cannot be duplicated: • A test drive with the customer may assist in understanding and reproducing the complaint. • The vehicle shift quality should be compared to a known-good vehicle with identical drivetrain and model year. • Check Shift Quality History (VGS Control Unit > Adaptations > Shift Quality History) Shift Quality History will show the last 5 noticeable harsh shifts and some of the parameters in which it occurred. You can use this to attempt recreation of the operating conditions and increase likelihood of reproducing the complaint. Complaint A: Shift Quality Note: Certain AMG variants may exhibit more firm and noticeable shift behavior as a normal characteristic. Refer to LI27.60‑P‑075147 for additional information. 1. Perform Valve flushing procedure 2. Perform 5 Torque Converter adaptions in a row - Allow the vehicle to warm up naturally, DO NOT power brake as it will increase the temperature in the torque converter. - After the 5th adaptation, collect a screen shot showing all 5 on one page 3. Perform a standstill adaption - collect a screen shot Recheck vehicle operation. If the concern has not improved, driving adaptations should be performed to target specific gear shifts.