Recall - Check/Replace Level Sensor Linkage At Rear Axle: Overview
Campaign No. 2012070006, August 2012TO: ALL MERCEDES-BENZ CENTERS
SUBJECT: Model 211 Wagon, Model Year 2007 - 2009
Check Level Sensor Linkage at Rear Axle, Replace if Necessary
This Service Campaign has been initiated because Daimler AG (DAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that the load leveling rear air suspension in the subject vehicles may not perform as designed due to a supplier material specification issue that can cause the connecting rod in the level control system to seize. The rod transmits the vertical movement of the load leveling rear air suspension system to a sensor. If the rod is seized, it may break. Should this occur, the possibility exists that the sensor will continuously attempt to increase the pressure in the air suspension system. This can first lead to uncomfortable and stiff suspension characteristics, and in very rare cases could lead to a loss of air pressure. Should this occur, owners may experience reduced control of the vehicle which could increase the risk of a vehicle crash. To date, we are not aware of any cases in the U.S. where the air suspension system has failed as a result of this condition. Dealers will check, and if necessary replace, the connecting rod in the level control system in your vehicle.
Attached is a sample copy of a letter which owners of the affected vehicles will receive.
Prior to performing this Recall Campaign:
^ Please check VMI to determine if the vehicle is involved in the Campaign and if it has been previously repaired.
^ Please review the entire Recall Campaign bulletin and follow the repair procedure exactly as described.
Please note that Recall and Service Campaigns do not expire and may also be performed on a vehicle with a vehicle status indicator.
Approximately 3,613 vehicles are involved.
Procedure
A. Check Both Ball Heads on Level Linkage
1. If closed ball head IS installed (OK, Figure 1): Procedure is complete.
2. If closed ball head is NOT installed (NOT OK, Figure 1): Proceed to subject B: Install New Level Linkage.
B. Install New Level Linkage (with closed ball head)
Note:
It is recommended that an alignment lift is used when performing this Procedure.
1. Unscrew U-bracket (A, Figure 2) for level linkage (B) at stabilizer bar (C).
Note:
Observe installation position of bell crank (A, Figure 3) during assembly. When securing the U-bracket (B), the surface of the bell crank (A) must make contact at the face (arrow) of the stabilizer bar (C).
Note:
Torque new nuts (arrows, Figure 2) to 3 Nm when installing new level linkage assembly (B, Figure 2).
2. Counter hold ball head (A, Figure 4) with open end wrench then unscrew level linkage (B) from level linkage sensor (C).
3. Install new level linkage assembly (B, Figure 4) in reverse order.
Note:
Torque new nut (arrows, Figure 4) to 5 Nm.
4. Check vehicle level at rear axle with electronic inclinometer, adjust if necessary (AR40.20-P-0301T).
Note (regarding above WIS instructions):
Adjustment of headlights is not claimable as part of this campaign. If adjustment is necessary, check coverage prior to submitting under warranty.
Equipment
Primary Parts Information
Note:
^ Please be aware that only the part number(s) referenced in the Campaign Bulletin is approved for use to repair the vehicle. Repairs performed using any other part(s) will not have been performed in accordance with the campaign. Accordingly, warranty claims submitted with reference to an improper part number(s) will be denied.
^ The following allowable labor operation should be used when submitting a warranty claim for this repair:
Warranty Information
NOTE REGARDING CUSTOMER REIMBURSEMENT
Reimbursement to customers for repairs performed prior to this recall: If the customer already paid to have this recall campaign condition repaired and provides adequate documentation to support their claim of a non-warranty repair of this item, they may be eligible to receive reimbursement.
Requests for reimbursement may include parts, labor, fees and taxes. Reimbursement is limited to the amount the repair of level sensor linkage would have cost if completed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer under this campaign.
Submit a warranty claim, utilizing Damage Code 32 950 37 8 as a sublet, utilizing the sublet code of "SUB." Sublet repairs require dealer text as stated in the Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual. Repair date should be the date that the customer paid for the repair.
Note:
Please note the claim submitted for customer reimbursement will not close the campaign (if still open). If the customer is still in possession of the vehicle with an open campaign, please arrange to close the campaign in the usual manner as described in this bulletin.