WASHINGTON, D.C. – Daimler Vans USA, LLC has agreed to recall certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and 2019 Freightliner Sprinter Vans to correct a potential issue which might result in loss of brake fluid and major deterioration of braking performance.

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) complaint number 20V-181 the issue affecting up to 48,775 vans is potential chafing of the brake line which could result in a leak in the line.

“If the distance between the fender liner and the brake hose is not sufficient, the front wheel suspension could make contact with the brake hose, which could lead to chafing of the brake hose and the loss of brake fluid. Over time, if the operator ignores the brake fluid warning indicator and continues to operate the vehicle until the brake fluid runs dry, this may extend the braking distance and increase the risk of a crash,” NHTSA wrote.

Daimler will notify Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner dealers May 1st, with customers receiving notification one week later. NHTSA estimates the entire production of these vans from May 16,2018 to March 12, 2020, have the defect.

The remedy has two phases:

  1. An authorized Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer will inspect the condition and clearance of the brake hoses and, if necessary, replace them
  2. The corresponding fender line will be cut to permit additional space between the front axle wheelhouse and the brake lines, regardless if the hoses are replaced or not.

The specific Make/Model/Model Year affected:

Makes/Models/Model Years:

FREIGHTLINER/SPRINTER 1500/2019
FREIGHTLINER/SPRINTER 2500/2019
FREIGHTLINER/SPRINTER 3500/2019
FREIGHTLINER/SPRINTER 4500/2019
MERCEDES BENZ/SPRINTER (VS30)/2019
MERCEDES-BENZ/SPRINTER 1500/2019
MERCEDES-BENZ/SPRINTER 2500/2019
MERCEDES-BENZ/SPRINTER 3500/2019
MERCEDES-BENZ/SPRINTER 4500/2019