Recall 09V076000: Water Intrusion/Fire Potential

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Mercedes Benz/M-Class 2009

MANUFACTURER: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: March 06, 2009

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V076000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Exterior Lighting: Tail Lights

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 16130

SUMMARY:
Mercedes Benz is recalling 16,130 M/Y 2009 M-Class W164 passenger vehicles equipped with the optional power lift gate. As a result of a faulty seal around the rear tail lamp assembly, water may enter the rear compartment containing the spare tire. Water contamination of the control unit for the power lift gate can result in disabling of the power lift gate motor.

CONSEQUENCE:
Water will cause a short circuit which could lead to a fire.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the seal of the rear tail lamp assembly with a thicker one and reposition the affected power lift gate control unit inside the chassis. This service will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during April 2009. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.