Tow Hitch Recall - VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU ARE TOWING!!!!!
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Joined: Nov 2007
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From: Seattle, WA
2008 GL 550
Tow Hitch Recall - VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU ARE TOWING!!!!!
Just dropped off my GL for the 10K Flex A. Asked them to look at the NAV memory loss issue (see https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-x164/247264-memory-loss-nav.html) (although I don't think they will find anything), and the thumping front suspension (see https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...rvice+bulletin .
On my way out the service rep asked me if I use the tow hitch (which I do), and told me there is a tow hitch recall and they may need to keep it a little extra to perform. This is what I have found so far:
https://mbworld.org/forums/m-class-w164/247678-trailer-hitch-recall.html#post2879138
http://www.allworldauto.com/blogs/20...benz-gl-recall
I'll update this post when I get my car back and more info, but note that if you are towing, this is very serious. Guidance is that tow hitch may seperate! Don't tow until you have this recall done!
Text from Allworldauto:
Mercedes Benz is recalling certain models of the 2006-2008 GL and ML class vehicles equipped with a trailer hitch. Some of the weld seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer to the body frame do not meet perfarmance specifications.
This may result in the trailer hitch receiver separating from the attachment bar, creating a road hazard which may lead to a vehicle crash. The trailer hitch must not be used for any purpose until it has been repaired.
Dealers will repair the trailer hitch. The recall is expected to begin in June of 2008. Owners may contact Mercedes Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
On my way out the service rep asked me if I use the tow hitch (which I do), and told me there is a tow hitch recall and they may need to keep it a little extra to perform. This is what I have found so far:
https://mbworld.org/forums/m-class-w164/247678-trailer-hitch-recall.html#post2879138
http://www.allworldauto.com/blogs/20...benz-gl-recall
I'll update this post when I get my car back and more info, but note that if you are towing, this is very serious. Guidance is that tow hitch may seperate! Don't tow until you have this recall done!
Text from Allworldauto:
Mercedes Benz is recalling certain models of the 2006-2008 GL and ML class vehicles equipped with a trailer hitch. Some of the weld seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer to the body frame do not meet perfarmance specifications.
This may result in the trailer hitch receiver separating from the attachment bar, creating a road hazard which may lead to a vehicle crash. The trailer hitch must not be used for any purpose until it has been repaired.
Dealers will repair the trailer hitch. The recall is expected to begin in June of 2008. Owners may contact Mercedes Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Last edited by slim nicky; Jun 13, 2008 at 05:23 PM.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 118
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From: Seattle, WA
2008 GL 550
More info from Benz Blogger http://www.benzblogger.com/ below:
Note, this is the recall letter you should have/will receive: http://www.benzblogger.com/PhotoGall...callLetter.pdf
Has anyone gotten it yet? I have not!
Jun 10, 2008
Trailer Hitch Recall for 2006-2008 ML and GL Vehicles
Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for the trailer hitch on ML and GL vehicles, 2006 through 2008 with a VIN ending in A419399 and lower. It is recommended that you do not tow anything until the recall work is performed! When you bring the vehicle in for the this work, a certified welder will reweld the seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer hitch to the body frame. It should take about 2 hours to complete.
If your vehicle is part of this recall you should have received this letter from MBUSA. However, I know sometimes people move or purchase the car privately and Mercedes may not have your address.
Safety first!
Labels: Newsletter, Owner Resources
posted by Jesse Cannon-Wallace @ 10:07 AM - Link to This Post - Email This Post
Note, this is the recall letter you should have/will receive: http://www.benzblogger.com/PhotoGall...callLetter.pdf
Has anyone gotten it yet? I have not!
Jun 10, 2008
Trailer Hitch Recall for 2006-2008 ML and GL Vehicles
Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall for the trailer hitch on ML and GL vehicles, 2006 through 2008 with a VIN ending in A419399 and lower. It is recommended that you do not tow anything until the recall work is performed! When you bring the vehicle in for the this work, a certified welder will reweld the seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer hitch to the body frame. It should take about 2 hours to complete.
If your vehicle is part of this recall you should have received this letter from MBUSA. However, I know sometimes people move or purchase the car privately and Mercedes may not have your address.
Safety first!
Labels: Newsletter, Owner Resources
posted by Jesse Cannon-Wallace @ 10:07 AM - Link to This Post - Email This Post
Last edited by slim nicky; Jun 13, 2008 at 05:15 PM.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 118
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From: Seattle, WA
2008 GL 550
Quick update. Because the dealer does not have a welder on site, they are taking GL to body shop to get the work done. This ads some time to turn around, so now will pick up tomorrow.
BTW - the more I think about this recall, the more paranoid I get about potential quality issues with GL - welding a hitch on is a pretty basic thing. Also its disconcerting, as many of us specifically bought the GL for its towing ability and with the intent to tow. So you would think they would have caught this earlier. I hope this is not a sign of more problems to come.... I had more than my fair share with my 1998 ML320.... <sigh>
BTW - the more I think about this recall, the more paranoid I get about potential quality issues with GL - welding a hitch on is a pretty basic thing. Also its disconcerting, as many of us specifically bought the GL for its towing ability and with the intent to tow. So you would think they would have caught this earlier. I hope this is not a sign of more problems to come.... I had more than my fair share with my 1998 ML320.... <sigh>
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Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Scottsdale, AZ
2007 GL320 CDI, 2001 TJ Rockcrawler, 2005 Scoobie STI
Thanks for posting! I have a trip coming up from Phoenix to Moab, UT towing a 6700 Lb trailer so glad I caught this now...
My dealer appt is scheduled for next Weds.
My dealer appt is scheduled for next Weds.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Ottawa, Canada
2008 GL320CDI
"Daimler AG has determined that due to a modification in the welding process at the supplier's manufacturing plant, some of the weld seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer hitch to the body frame do not meet DAG performance specifications." I guess most everything comes from a vendor these days. Having worked for an aircraft manufacturer, I can tell you that vendors can get you in a LOT of trouble.
I'm just wondering how they plan to recoat the hitch once welded. I'm not interested in a Tremclad job that will look like crap in a year. They've already ruined my back door with the (&^$^&%$** license plate screws
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From: Indianapolis, IN
2008 C350
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
'06 A6 & '08 GL550
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From: Las Vegas, NV
2011 E350 Cabriolet..White and Almond Mocha
Got my letter today and will probably not fool with it. I will keep the letter in the Jockey Box for a future owner to use. I don't tow and do not intend to tow anything except maybe my butt to the casinos...:-)
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From: DFW
2022 E350 Diamond White Metallic, 2016 GLC300 Dakota Brown Metallic
All I use the Hitch for is for my bicycle carrier. I wonder if I need to have it fixed. I am afraid if the dealer gets a hold of it they will mess something else up.
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From: Las Vegas, NV
2011 E350 Cabriolet..White and Almond Mocha
I am not too comfortable having a local welder crawl under my GL and start burning things together! I will pass on this fix.
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From: Colorado Rocky Mtns.
'06 A6 & '08 GL550
It must be on a train from Vance.
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From: Las Vegas, NV
2011 E350 Cabriolet..White and Almond Mocha
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From: DFW
2022 E350 Diamond White Metallic, 2016 GLC300 Dakota Brown Metallic
I recieved my letter. As I stated earlier I really do not like the idea of someone with a welding arc under my GL where they can mess something else up. I only use my hitch for a bicycle carrier. Mercedes strikes again.
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Joined: Mar 2008
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From: B.C.
GL 320cdi, Chevrolet Avalanchero, GLE 350 (on order)
Hey, although I'm not a blue collar guy myself, I think that "Joe" is likely as good at his job as anyone else is. Welding is an art, and to get the higher certifications is a tough slog. I don't think you have anythhing to worry about.
If you are thinking of not doing the recall, make sure you disclose this at lease end/sale so someone does not get a ski boat in the face at 60mph, 'cus you guys were scared of a "dirty" welder being under your cars...just a thought.
If you are thinking of not doing the recall, make sure you disclose this at lease end/sale so someone does not get a ski boat in the face at 60mph, 'cus you guys were scared of a "dirty" welder being under your cars...just a thought.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2007
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2008 GL320
I took my GL in for this recall earlier this week. The SR said that it'll be done properly by the only MB cert'd body shop around the area. When it was done, I crawled and looked under. I couldn't see where the repair was. No paint over-spray, no weld splatter, no greasy finger prints... 
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From: LA LA Land
'07 GL 450, '02 S 80 T6
Originally Posted by Stumblefoot
Still no letter here yet.
It must be on a train from Vance.
It must be on a train from Vance.
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From: LAS VEGAS
ML500
I just left my truck to be fixed this morning. I got the letter yesterday.
It really sucks since I have to go racing this weekend and I need my truck, and they are not sure if they can finish today.
I'm very upset, I should've gotten the F-450 for towing
It really sucks since I have to go racing this weekend and I need my truck, and they are not sure if they can finish today.
I'm very upset, I should've gotten the F-450 for towing
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Joined: Apr 2008
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From: Cali
2011 GL450
This is scary! We just towed our 6000 lb boat this weekend to AZ. I had no idea about the recall. I am thankful we made it there and back in one piece. I have not received my letter yet, but will definitely take my GL for the fix before our next river trip.
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From: Scottsdale, AZ
2004 RX330, 2008 Scion xB, 2001 Honda Insight Hybrid, 2010 Toyot Prius v ATP
Of course, not having a hitch (yet), nor knowledge #1 about how to weld, it's easy for me to criticize.
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From: B.C.
GL 320cdi, Chevrolet Avalanchero, GLE 350 (on order)
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From: Overland Park, KS
‘24 BMW iX M60
Well our brand new GL is included in the recall. Our SA told us that they are sending a 'tech' to 'learn the technique' so that the dealership can then perform the repair in house and hence bill for it instead of farming it out.
Think I'll wait a few months before I get the recall done. The boat doesn't have to be out of the lake until the end of October anyway.
Bish
Think I'll wait a few months before I get the recall done. The boat doesn't have to be out of the lake until the end of October anyway.
Bish
