May 13, 2022 |  By Sam Anderson

Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing division recently identified brake defects in more than 290,000 vehicles.

If you drive a 2006-2012 model-year Mercedes-Benz SUV or van, listen up. The German automaker said today that its manufacturing arm found problems in the braking systems of about 292,287 ML, GL, and R-series vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz USA issued the recall voluntarily in coordination with the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). The brand advises owners of affected vehicles to stop driving immediately. Mercedez-Benz AG can confirm that the defect has caused no crashes, injuries, or deaths.

According to MBUSA, advanced corrosion in the joint area of the brake booster’s housing might affect its function.

Mercedes-Benz AG determined that moisture may wick under a rubber sleeve installed around the brake booster housing. According to Mercedes, “following extended time in the field and in conjunction with significant water exposure,” corrosion could develop. And as a result, a vacuum leak at the brake booster could ensue.

If that happens, the “brake force support,” which assists drivers in stopping the vehicle, might drop. In that case, drivers would have to push the brake pedal harder to decelerate and/or stop the vehicle, potentially increasing the stopping distance.

In extreme cases, the manufacturer said, it might be possible that pressing the brake hard enough would cause the connection between the brake pedal and the brake system to fail. If that were to happen, pressing the pedal would not stop the car.

Mercedes noted that the corrosion does not affect the foot-activated parking brake.

Mercedes will offer complimentary towing to affected vehicle owners. A remediation, or “workshop,” will remove the rubber brake booster sleeve, inspect the brake booster housing, and replace parts as required.

If technicians find repairs necessary but can’t perform them immediately, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will help coordinate an individual solution for the customer.

If you think your vehicle may be included in this recall, or for more information, contact Mercedes at 1-888-548-8514.

Sam has roamed the American continent to follow adventures, explore natural wonders, and find good stories. After going to college to be a writer, he got distracted (or saved) by rock climbing and spent most of the next decade on the road, supporting himself with trade work. He's had addresses in the Adirondack Mountains, Las Vegas, and somehow Kansas, but his heart belongs in the Texas hill country.

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