For the last several weeks we have smelled a gas odor in our garage and on the inside of our 2005 Mercedes Benz E-320. Since an odor of gas creates the possibility of a fire or environmental concern we scheduled an appointment for 01/22/2013 (today). The car is currently in fields motorcars - 209 S. lake parker avenue, lakeland, fl 33801. We are also having the annual service done at this time. After inspection this morning, the mechanic advised our service writer that there is a leak in the fuel tank. Based on their recommendation the fuel tank is being replaced. Any fuel leak has a potential for dangerous and fatal consequences. The cost for this is approximately $2000. I have been advised the fuel tank leak is not covered by the factory warranty, nor is there a government mandated recall. The vehicle is tentatively scheduled to be completed and returned to us tomorrow, 01/23/2013. In researching the fuel tank leak in our vehicle, I have found there is ample information indicating the fuel tank leaking issue is not limited to my vehicle. I also noted that in February, 2012 the NHTSA has opened up an investigation into this matter. In addition, the Texas law firm wigington, rumley dunn & ritch along with Georgia law firm conley griggs partin filed a class action lawsuit on July 18, 2012, against Mercedes-Benz, usa and its german parent corporation daimler on behalf of thousands of consumers who purchased model year 2003-2009 Mercedes-Benz E-class vehicles. As a consumer placed in these dangerous circumstances without relief by the manufacturer, I desire to share this information with NHTSA to assist them with their investigation regarding the 2003 ' 2009 Mercedes Benz E class fuel tank leaks. We have owned the vehicle since new and it has approximately 44,000 miles on the odometer. Updated 1/30/13 updated 2/13/13 updated 2/15/2013

- Winter Haven, FL, USA

2005 Mercedes Benz E320. Consumer states fuel filter assembly problem the consumer stated after refueling the vehicle, a strong odor of gas was present. After the fuel filter problem was diagnosed, the mechanic had no idea there was also a gas tank problem. The next month, the strong odor of gas was back again. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the consumer was informed the fumes were coming from the gas tank due to a defect in the gas tank design. A hold was discovered in the gas tank under the passenger compartment.

- Laveen, AZ, USA