Recall 03V-121: 1998–2003 Mercedes Benz M Class

MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. recall for steering, reported to NHTSA on Mar 27, 2003, covering about 211,000 vehicles.

NHTSA number
03V-121
Report date
Mar 27, 2003
Vehicles affected
211,000
Owners notified
Jun 16, 2003

The problem

On certain passenger vehicles, the hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the power steering fluid cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force for this connection.

The risk

The loss of power steering fluid may result in diminished power steering over time and ultimately can damage the power steering pump.

The fix

Dealers will install a new hose clamp on the power steering hose to the power steering cooler. During clamp replacement, the power steering cooling hose will be inspected and replaced as necessary. Owner notification began june 16, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.

Notes

Mercedes-benz recall no. 2003-040005.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Recall details

ManufacturerMERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC.
ComponentSteering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections
Recall started byNHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation)
NHTSA campaign number03V121000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Mercedes Benz M Class1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 03V-121?

On certain passenger vehicles, the hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the power steering fluid cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force for this connection.

How is recall 03V-121 fixed?

Dealers will install a new hose clamp on the power steering hose to the power steering cooler. During clamp replacement, the power steering cooling hose will be inspected and replaced as necessary. Owner notification began june 16, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.