It appears that I have come across one of the automotive industry’s worst-kept secrets regarding safety: multiple Mercedes-Benz models are prone to the issue of corroded and perforated subframes. These subframes are responsible for connecting the axle and suspension to the main frame of the vehicle. Consequently, when these subframes fail, the consequences are significant. Mercedes has increased the length of its warranty in the US and is providing “goodwill” payments in the UK to cover certain repairs.
Approximately six weeks ago, it was discovered that my 2011 car had a corroded and damaged rear subframe. However, Mercedes is refusing to cover the repair costs. It is truly disheartening to witness a well-known safety issue not being addressed in the UK through a recall or an updated warranty. If I don’t bear the burden of a repair cost exceeding £3,000, which is roughly half the value of the car, it will fail its MOT.
JM, Marcham, Oxon
A corroded subframe has the potential to impact steering and control of the vehicle. In the US, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Mercedes by drivers who argue that the company has been aware of this problem since at least 2009, yet failed to warn or reimburse affected owners. According to the lawsuit, eight models manufactured between 2010 and 2022 are susceptible to rusting, which develops from within and can be difficult to detect until the damage is extensive.
Mercedes is currently challenging the lawsuit but has extended the subframe warranty for US drivers from four years and 50,000 miles to 20 years with unlimited mileage. Unfortunately, drivers in the UK have been left without protection.
Why has Mercedes neglected to address this issue in the UK? Unfortunately, Mercedes has declined to provide an explanation. It has also refused to disclose the duration for which it has been aware of the defect, why drivers were not alerted, and the rationale behind selectively covering some repairs in the UK while denying coverage for others. Instead, Mercedes declares, “The Mercedes-Benz brand has always prioritized safety and quality, which are fundamental values deeply embedded in our company and guide our everyday actions.”
“Continuous product and field monitoring is conducted, and appropriate measures are taken in response to any identified deviations. In this specific case, we have decided to investigate potential customer complaints on an individual basis, adhering to our goodwill standards.”
In your situation, however, your claim under “goodwill standards” was initially arbitrarily denied. However, within a day of my intervention, Mercedes made the decision to cover your expenses, and a repair appointment was promptly scheduled.
Owners of older vehicles may struggle to assert their rights if their warranty has expired, as the company refuses to acknowledge liability.
I would recommend that they reference the class action and warranty extension in the US. Prospective buyers should be cautious: a prestigious logo and a high price tag do not necessarily guarantee reliability.
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