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Mercedes-Benz Recall : A/C Refrigerant May Ignite In A Crash

2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The testing conducted by DAG determined that the escaping R1234yf refrigerant may ignite under specific conditions. The resulting fire could spread to additional combustible materials.

Equipment — Appliance — Air Conditioner

Summary
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2013 SL-Class vehicles manufactured from December 19, 2011, through May 31, 2012 originally equipped with R1234yf refrigerant. Daimler AG (DAG), 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.
Actions
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the R1234yf refrigerant with R134a along with new refrigerant lines (hoses) designed specifically for R134a. The remedy will be provided free of charge. The safety recall began on November 8, 2012. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Documents (11)

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Date Announced
OCT 01, 2012
Vehicles Affected
432
NHTSA Campaign #
12V478000
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