Affected Component: STRUCTURE

Date Published
JAN 13, 2021
NHTSA TSB #
10187780
TSB Document
Summary
To enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a settlement regarding claims relating to allegations that the ?590 Mars Red? paint available as an original, exterior color option for certain models of Mercedes-Benz vehicles may experience peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the exterior paint or clear coat. This ?Mars Red? paint is sometimes referred to as ?Fire Opal.? A motion for approval of the settlement was filed with the Court on December 21, 2020. The settlement must receive final approval from the court before it takes effect. As part of the settlement, MBUSA has agreed to offer sliding-scale warranty coverage for certain vehicles to repaint any non-plastic exterior surface of a Subject Vehicle because of peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the exterior paint or clear coat. This warranty coverage does not cover repainting necessitated by external influences such as automobile accidents, scratches, or road debris. Warranty coverage will not take effect until the settlement is judicially approved and other events occur. If the settlement becomes effective, coverage will include inspection of the vehicle to diagnose the possible cause of any observed peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the exterior paint or clear coat.