Spring perch (mount) for the front spring on driver's side failed due to corrosion causing spring to be ejected under the car and fender to drop onto tire. Corrosion is undetectable by normal inspection because manufacturer uses a heavy, rubberized coating on underbody parts. Car was traveling at low speed so damage was minimal. At higher speeds, consequences could be severe. Investigation reveals that this is becoming a fairly common occurrence on Mercedes Benz W202 and W210 chassis. Failure has not been repaired, but is believed to require removal of remnants of the old perch, grinding of the frame to remove corrosion, and welding a new perch onto the frame. The spindle assembly and control arms will have to be disassembled to accomplish this and then reassembled and the suspension realigned.

- Merrimac, MA, USA