Mercedes-Benz recalls ML SUVs due to floor mat risks

Consumer Reports News: August 13, 2012 11:38 AM

Find Ratings

SUVs

See Dealer Pricing

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall warning for more than 8,500 of its M-Class SUVs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2012-2013 versions of the Mercedes-Benz ML350, ML550, and ML63 may have accessory all-season floor mats that may trap the accelerator pedals. These mats do not properly "conform to the contour of the vehicle's floor."

NHTSA says drivers of the Mercedes Benz luxury sport-utility vehicles can still bring the affected SUVs to a safe stop with "steady application of the brakes." However, the agency and company warns that owners of the Mercedes-Benz SUVs should remove the floor mats from the vehicles until free, better-fitting replacements can be distributed.

Floor mat problems and unintended acceleration issues have been issues with Toyota vehicles, as well. Over 8 million Toyotas, including its best-selling Camry sedan, were recalled to address issues of problems of sticking pedals and pedal entrapment. And last month, the Japanese company recalled its 2010 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h, its hybrid counterpart to fix "an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat."

Toyota has installed a brake override system in all its vehicles which allow drivers to safely stop an accelerating car. But if your vehicle doesn't have such a safety system, advocated by Consumer Reports car engineers, see our free unintended acceleration guide for important safety information on how to handle your car during emergencies.

For more information on the recall of 2012-2013 M-Class SUVs, consumers can call Mercedes-Benz toll-free at 800-367-6372

Source:
Recall: 2012-2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350 / ML550 / ML63 SUVs - Floor mats Campaign #: 12E028000 [NHTSA]

—Paul Eng