In a recent development, Daimler Vans USA has issued a comprehensive recall for a total of 3,775 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans produced between 2019 and 2023. This recall encompasses three distinct issues that have been identified, reflecting the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Sprinter owners.
1. Recall 23V-875: Longitudinal Frame Member Reinforcement Issue (3,739 units)
The most substantial of the recalls involves 3,739 units from model years 2019 through 2022 (MY19–MY22). Mercedes-Benz AG identified an issue with the longitudinal frame member reinforcements of certain body-in-white vehicles, discovered in February 2023. The investigation revealed that these reinforcements may not have been correctly installed, posing a risk of damage to the rear axle’s longitudinal frame member. Such damage increases the potential failure of the third-row seat mountings.
Vans affected by this issue were assembled between October 15, 2018, and August 17, 2022. A crucial modification in the installation procedure was implemented after August 18, 2022, to address and prevent this condition. Daimler Vans USA dealers are set to conduct checks on the longitudinal frame member, with necessary reinstallation as required. Owners will receive notifications by first-class mail no later than February 16, 2023.
2. Recall 23V-876: Missing Bolts in Partition Walls (387 units)
This recall addresses 387 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, ranging from 2019 to 2023 models, assembled between January 31, 2019, and January 19, 2023. The identified issue involves partition walls that may be missing bolts, potentially leading to detachment in the event of a crash. Mercedes-Benz AG detected this discrepancy in November 2022, initiating an inspection and rework campaign the following month.
Dealers will commence inspections and necessary rework on January 5, 2023, as per instructions from Daimler Vans USA. The recall process aims to rectify the bolt connections. Improved assembly procedures were implemented by Mercedes-Benz AG in January 2023, enhancing the overall safety of the affected Sprinter vans.
3. Recall 23V-874: Propeller Shaft Bearing and Crossmember Connection Issue (9 units)
Nine Sprinter vehicles from the 2020 model year, produced between September 15, 2020, and December 3, 2020, are subject to this recall. Identified as recall number 23V-874, the issue revolves around the connection between the propeller shaft bearing and crossmember potentially loosening over time. This condition may impair the guidance of the bearing, leading to the propeller shaft damaging the fuel tank and resulting in a fuel leak in the event of a crash.
Mercedes-Benz AG recognized this deviation in the production rework process in February 2023, initiating an investigation in March 2023. While discrepancies were acknowledged, it’s important to note that the rework procedure was modified in December 2020, indicating the manufacturer’s commitment to addressing identified issues.
In light of these recalls, potential Sprinter buyers may consider alternative options from Ford, Ram, and GM, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety in vehicle selection. Daimler Vans USA is taking proactive measures to address these concerns promptly, with dealers actively engaged in the recall process to ensure the safety and reliability of the affected Sprinter vans.
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Photo: Mercedes-Benz
