The passenger side airbag on the rear end of my 2016 E400 wagon is leaking. The car settles on the right rear corner when parked, it airs up relatively quickly on startup. There is a sort of clunk or short creak or grinding sound when it lifts off it’s settled position. The airbag was replaced by the local dealer, along with the rear shock absorber, after a pothole incident last year. I noticed this abrasion or puncture in the accordion like cover on the airbag. This looks like a protective cover and not the airbag itself. I am hoping the repair will be done under warranty. Meanwhile I wonder about the significance of this damage to the cover? Could this be a sign of what caused the leak? Another q: is is safe to drive the car with the airbag leaking if it holds air while the car is in operation? What if stranded far from home and the airbag will not hold air? In that case I assume the car should be towed and not driven. Given this is the second airbag failure in 60,000 km, it is disconcerting. Appreciate comments.

 

Yes have them revisit under warranty ASAP, see attachment. I would chance a drive to dealer but actively driving in between no one can predict when air spring will fail.

 

Very helpful and that looks like it is the problem. I'll take it up with the dealership and report back.