Mercedes-Benz Issues Recall for Two Van Models Due to Potential Airbag Malfunction
**Mercedes-Benz Global Van Recall Affects Thousands of Vehicles**
Mercedes-Benz has announced a global recall of its Viano and Vito commercial van models, produced between December 2002 and February 2006, due to a potential defect in the driver’s side airbags. The recall affects approximately 223,000 vehicles worldwide, with around 60,245 vehicles in Germany potentially impacted.
The issue causing the recall involves a possible faulty airbag module from the company Takata, which has been linked to widespread airbag defects worldwide. During past airbag replacements, some vehicles may have been fitted with modules from Takata.
In the event of an accident, the airbag gas generator could burst, preventing proper deployment and posing a risk of injury from flying metal fragments. The malfunction could lead to metal fragments detaching, harming vehicle occupants.
The recall was published by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), and Mercedes-Benz will conduct inspections and replacements via their dealership network, providing the service at no cost to vehicle owners. Affected customers will be notified in writing by their sales organization.
The recall process is straightforward. Affected vehicle owners will bring their vehicles to a Mercedes-Benz dealership for inspection. If the airbag needs to be replaced, the service will be carried out free of charge. The workshop visit is estimated to take approximately one hour.
It is important to note that the recall affects only the van models Viano and Vito, produced between December 2002 and February 2006, and does not involve any other Mercedes-Benz vehicle models.
In 2020, Volkswagen and Audi also recalled 2,025 cars due to faulty airbags, highlighting the importance of addressing such issues promptly.
Mercedes-Benz encourages all affected vehicle owners to take advantage of the recall service to ensure the safety of their vehicles and passengers. For more information, customers can contact their local Mercedes-Benz dealership.
- This issue causing the recall of Mercedes-Benz Viano and Vito commercial vans also involves faulty airbag modules from the finance-stricken company Takata, which is known for its global involvement in widespread airbag defects.
- The automotive industry's response to similar safety concerns, like the one faced by Mercedes-Benz, often includes industry-wide finance investments to address and resolve such issues promptly.
