Recall on C300 taillights, true?
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9
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ML 350
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 469
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Bezerker77: do a search on this subforum. There are part numbers posted. I could do it for you but I'm on mobile and it would take forever.
Definitely a very easy thing to do yourself. Took me 15 minutes to do it in front of my SA parked right outside his office with basic tools to show him how easy it was.
Definitely a very easy thing to do yourself. Took me 15 minutes to do it in front of my SA parked right outside his office with basic tools to show him how easy it was.
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
ML 350
DIY and skip the sdealer
It took me about 25 minutes and $60 dollars to DIY. All you need is a crimpling tool, wire cutters and a flashlight.
Below are instruction, receipts and diagram for the rear light assembly
What I bought:
1 Plug
7 contact bushings
1 Lamp Carrier
Step1: Snip brown wire --> insert into a "contact bushing" and crimp it.
Step2: insert contact bushings into the new "plug" , same spot (it locks so don't mess up the order of wires, otherwise you will have to start over and buy a new plug)
Rinse and repeat for each wire. Once complete replace Lamp Carries (2 very easy clamps --> top and botto) and plug in "plug" into "Lamp Carrier"
You are done
2014_02_20_13_42_40.pdf
Below are instruction, receipts and diagram for the rear light assembly
What I bought:
1 Plug
7 contact bushings
1 Lamp Carrier
Step1: Snip brown wire --> insert into a "contact bushing" and crimp it.
Step2: insert contact bushings into the new "plug" , same spot (it locks so don't mess up the order of wires, otherwise you will have to start over and buy a new plug)
Rinse and repeat for each wire. Once complete replace Lamp Carries (2 very easy clamps --> top and botto) and plug in "plug" into "Lamp Carrier"
You are done
2014_02_20_13_42_40.pdf
Last edited by bezerker77; Feb 20, 2014 at 05:21 PM. Reason: missing file
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 31
Likes: 1
2017 c43amg
I fixed both sides last night using the method in post #34 plus new bulb carriers and a connector on the drivers side (passenger side connector looked ok).
I also switched to led bulbs but I noticed the passenger side is still slightly dimmer than the drivers side but all error messages are gone.
Any advice? Should I just go ahead and change the passenger side connector too? It seems to look ok unlike the driver side.
Driver side images:
I also switched to led bulbs but I noticed the passenger side is still slightly dimmer than the drivers side but all error messages are gone.
Any advice? Should I just go ahead and change the passenger side connector too? It seems to look ok unlike the driver side.
Driver side images:
Last edited by angelas111; Mar 2, 2014 at 08:11 AM.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
From: Chicago
2010 Arctic White C300 4matic Sport
I just filed a complaint with the NHTSA as well. This first happened at less than 20k miles to one side. The other side fell victim at 35k miles.
Mercedes is well aware of this issue. To quote the press releases already posted, "Mercedes acknowledged the issue. In its report, the company stated that 23,000 warranty claims tied to the brand have something to do with Mercedes tail light problems."
They just need to recall these cars and get the fix done with. On a weekly basis, I see at least one W204 with a dim taillight.
Mercedes is well aware of this issue. To quote the press releases already posted, "Mercedes acknowledged the issue. In its report, the company stated that 23,000 warranty claims tied to the brand have something to do with Mercedes tail light problems."
They just need to recall these cars and get the fix done with. On a weekly basis, I see at least one W204 with a dim taillight.
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 1
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2008 C300 Sport
C300 Right taillight melting issue
Picked up parts at dealer for $56 bucks. Used a small paper clip to release wires. Changed them out one at a time and worked perfectly. Mercedes should be held accountable for issues like this and their ignition tumbler!
Good luck everyone!
Good luck everyone!
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Member
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 166
Likes: 2
From: New York City
2009 C300 Sport 4Matic
Bump, any update on this recall? I've had the warning light in my instrument cluster forever but my LED tail/brake lights are still working.
The dealer told me they have reverted to "backup" dimmer lights. Is this BS or what?
For those who paid the dealer to have this done any estimate?
The dealer told me they have reverted to "backup" dimmer lights. Is this BS or what?
For those who paid the dealer to have this done any estimate?
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
2008 Mercedes C300 4Matic Sport Sedan
I think that the SAM just continues to send a lower current through the tails regardless, as it's a vital safety component. Almost every other circuit for side markers and fog lights will turn off the circuit if the right draw isn't detected. Maybe the taillights are different?
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2008 C350 Sport
I have the same issue with the dim passenger tail light AND my passenger side low horn doesn't seem to be getting any power as well. This is a BAD combination. Has anyone experienced this combination too?
P.S., I did report this problem to the NHTSA too.
P.S., I did report this problem to the NHTSA too.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 597
Likes: 7
From: San Jose
2016 C450 AMG, 2009 C300, 2001 C320 2001 CLK430, 95 E500
I think it has now been done, and there will be a recall
http://www.benzinsider.com/2014/04/2...ct-for-recall/
http://www.benzinsider.com/2014/04/2...ct-for-recall/
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 469
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Daimler quickly cooperated by supplying the documents needed by the regulator and eventually decided to go on with the recall to control the problem.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 506
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From: Argyle, TX
10 Tahoe LT, 07 Silverado Z71, 99 BMW R1100RT
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 6
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e350 4matic
how are e-class models not included?
I've got an e350 from same period (manufactured 9/2007) and the same melted connector. I called mercedes and I'm not covered at all on this. We have to initiate a completely new write-in campaign for e-class? Unbelievable.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 570
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'14 C63 507, '11 C300, '96 Cobra, '91 Mr2
I received a letter from MBUSA a few weeks ago concerning NHTSA Recall # 14V-177:
"Daimler AG (DAG) has detremined that oxidation on the ground pin connector for the rear tail lamps of subject vehicles can result in a dimming of the tail lights or complete loss of tail lamp function. The loss of a rear tail lamp reduces the rearward visibility of subject vehicles, especially with respect to turn signal illumination. This oxidation can reduce the level of illumination below that required for tail lamps by FMVSS 108 and may increase the likelihood of a rear end crash"
"Should you have any concerns, or experience any difficulty with your rear tail lamps, before you receive the next recall letter, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer who will repair your tail lamp free of charge. If you have paid to have this recall condition corrected prior to this notice you will receive reimbursement instructions with your second recall letter.
Got the tail lamp assembly on my 2011 C300 replaced a few months ago due to a warning on the console; waiting to hear back whether it might have been related directly to this issue or not.
"Daimler AG (DAG) has detremined that oxidation on the ground pin connector for the rear tail lamps of subject vehicles can result in a dimming of the tail lights or complete loss of tail lamp function. The loss of a rear tail lamp reduces the rearward visibility of subject vehicles, especially with respect to turn signal illumination. This oxidation can reduce the level of illumination below that required for tail lamps by FMVSS 108 and may increase the likelihood of a rear end crash"
"Should you have any concerns, or experience any difficulty with your rear tail lamps, before you receive the next recall letter, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer who will repair your tail lamp free of charge. If you have paid to have this recall condition corrected prior to this notice you will receive reimbursement instructions with your second recall letter.
Got the tail lamp assembly on my 2011 C300 replaced a few months ago due to a warning on the console; waiting to hear back whether it might have been related directly to this issue or not.
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'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Got my letter yesterday as well. Just wondering if they will still do the fix if both of the tail lights was fixed already, left side 2 years ago and right side 4 months ago. Are they using a different parts or what I have on my car is already updated?
Newbie
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 6
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From: California
C-300 Luxury - 2011
tail light recall
I took my c300 in last week to have my passenger side tail light looked at because the top red light appeared really dim compared to the Driver side. I thought it was going to be as easy as a fix as just changing a bulb. The mechanic called me and said that the light holder that holds all the lights was partially melted. He compared it to a power outlet with too many power cords connected to it and burning out. He said that the lights need another ground that would correct the problem for now. Which it did!
He then went on to say that he looked up my vin # and said that mb will be calling me due to a recall on the "light holder" and to be on the look out or a letter from them.
Has anyone else had this issue? And is this recall for real? Any help is appreciated. Also where I can find any other related info.
Thank you!
He then went on to say that he looked up my vin # and said that mb will be calling me due to a recall on the "light holder" and to be on the look out or a letter from them.
Has anyone else had this issue? And is this recall for real? Any help is appreciated. Also where I can find any other related info.
Thank you!
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 570
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'14 C63 507, '11 C300, '96 Cobra, '91 Mr2
In that letter you have contact numbers for MBUSA and NHTSA. If you absolutely have to go to that dealer, call either number up and voice your concerns with their refusal to acknowledge the problem, and have them be the go-between for the dealership.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 570
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'14 C63 507, '11 C300, '96 Cobra, '91 Mr2
Some additional info on this...the SA I spoke with has apparently been fielding a lot of the same questions I had on the recall and here's the overview:
1)MB is working on getting the necessary parts in order to fix the issue, among them the circuit board that the connector plugs into.
2) In the interim (until these parts are available and owners can schedule time to come in), authorized MB dealer will repair tail lamps free of charge, regardless of warranty status
3) If the repair work was done prior to receipt of letter, then the cost of replacement will be refunded (actual quote "If you know of anyone who has paid for this replacement out-of-pocket, have them call me"). You get the point, don't call my SA hold your SA accountable
4) Once parts are in, MB will send an additional letter to owners to have them come in for replacement with the needed updated parts to fix the issue.
1)MB is working on getting the necessary parts in order to fix the issue, among them the circuit board that the connector plugs into.
2) In the interim (until these parts are available and owners can schedule time to come in), authorized MB dealer will repair tail lamps free of charge, regardless of warranty status
3) If the repair work was done prior to receipt of letter, then the cost of replacement will be refunded (actual quote "If you know of anyone who has paid for this replacement out-of-pocket, have them call me"). You get the point, don't call my SA hold your SA accountable
4) Once parts are in, MB will send an additional letter to owners to have them come in for replacement with the needed updated parts to fix the issue.
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Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 2,415
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From: Earth
2015 C300 4Matic Sport
I have a 2011 C300 with aftermarket ebay led tail lights.
When I get my official letter from MB to bring the car in, should I put the OEM ones back on the car before take it to the dealer or will it be fine if I just bring in my detached OEM tail lights and have them work on it.
Do you guys think the dealer will say no if the lights are not on the car?
When I get my official letter from MB to bring the car in, should I put the OEM ones back on the car before take it to the dealer or will it be fine if I just bring in my detached OEM tail lights and have them work on it.
Do you guys think the dealer will say no if the lights are not on the car?
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 570
Likes: 3
'14 C63 507, '11 C300, '96 Cobra, '91 Mr2
I have a 2011 C300 with aftermarket ebay led tail lights.
When I get my official letter from MB to bring the car in, should I put the OEM ones back on the car before take it to the dealer or will it be fine if I just bring in my detached OEM tail lights and have them work on it.
Do you guys think the dealer will say no if the lights are not on the car?
When I get my official letter from MB to bring the car in, should I put the OEM ones back on the car before take it to the dealer or will it be fine if I just bring in my detached OEM tail lights and have them work on it.
Do you guys think the dealer will say no if the lights are not on the car?
