Mercedes-Benz & Freightliner Sprinter Recall: Critical Rear Window Safety Issue

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Affected Vehicle Models

This safety recall impacts specific model-year 2018-2019 vehicles across both Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner brands:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500 series vans
• Freightliner Sprinter: 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500 work van
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The Safety Concern Explained

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified a critical manufacturing defect in the affected vehicles:

• Rear side windows were installed with single-pane safety glass instead of the required laminated safety glass
• This deficiency significantly compromises occupant protection during:
• Side-impact collisions
• Vehicle rollover incidents
• The current glass may fail to prevent occupant ejection, dramatically increasing injury risk

Understanding Laminated vs. Tempered Glass

Laminated safety glass, required for these applications, consists of:

• Two glass layers bonded with a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer
• Designed to remain intact upon impact, preventing occupant ejection
• Reduces laceration risks from broken glass

Single-pane tempered glass, while strong, shatters into small pieces upon severe impact, offering inadequate ejection protection.

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Recall Repair Solution

Daimler Vans USA, the manufacturer of both Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles, will:

• Replace all affected single-pane rear side windows with compliant laminated safety glass
• Perform all repairs free of charge to vehicle owners
• Utilize OEM-approved materials meeting all federal safety standards
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What Owners Should Do Immediately

If you own a potentially affected Sprinter van:

1. Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Verify recall status through these official channels:

• NHTSA Recall Lookup: Visit nhtsa.gov/recalls
• Manufacturer Recall Portal: Check Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner owner portals

2. Schedule Your Free Repair

Contact authorized service centers:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter owners: Call 877-762-8267
• Freightliner Sprinter owners: Contact your local Freightliner dealer

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Understanding the Safety Risks

NHTSA crash data reveals why this recall is critical:

• Occupant ejection causes approximately 30% of all crash fatalities
• Ejected occupants are 5x more likely to die than those remaining inside
• Side-impact crashes account for 27% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths

Real-World Protection Difference

Laminated glass provides three key safety advantages:

1. Ejection Prevention: Maintains structural integrity during crashes
2. Debris Protection: Keeps glass fragments bonded to the interlayer
3. Secondary Impact Protection: Helps contain airbags' protective envelope
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Recall Implementation Timeline

Daimler Vans has established this recall schedule:

• Owner Notification: Official notices being mailed to registered owners
• Repair Availability: Most dealerships can perform the replacement immediately
• Completion Deadline: No expiration date for this safety recall
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the repair take?

Most window replacements can be completed within 2-3 hours at an authorized service center.

Is my vehicle safe to drive before the repair?

While the risk is present primarily during crashes, we recommend:

• Avoid transporting passengers in rear seats when possible
• Drive cautiously, especially on high-speed roads
• Schedule the repair at your earliest convenience

What if I already paid for this repair?

You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact Daimler Vans customer service with your repair receipts.

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Additional Safety Recommendations

While addressing this recall, consider these complementary safety measures:

• Ensure all occupants wear seatbelts (reduces ejection risk by 45%)
• Verify proper child restraint installation if transporting children
• Consider adding aftermarket window film for additional protection (after recall repair)

Need Help Finding a Service Center?

MotorVero can connect you with authorized repair facilities: