— Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2013 SL-Class vehicles originally equipped with R1234yf refrigerant. Daimler AG, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, conducted product testing of a vehicle, not sold in the US, but equipped with the same refrigerant.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the testing was designed to replicate worst-case conditions expected in a severe frontal crash that would cause a rupture of the air conditioner refrigerant line. A rupture of a refrigerant line will result in a gaseous mixture of refrigerant being released into the engine compartment.
The testing determined that the escaping R1234yf refrigerant may ignite under specific conditions.
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the R1234yf refrigerant with R134a along with new refrigerant lines designed specifically for R134a.
The recall is expected to begin during October, 2012. Owners can contact Mercedes-Benz at 800-367-6372.