2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris Recall: Front Seat Belt Safety Concern
Important safety notice for owners of select 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris vans
Recall Overview
Daimler Vans USA, LLC has issued a safety recall affecting approximately 300 model-year 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris vans due to a potential front seat belt pretensioner malfunction. This critical safety component may fail to properly restrain occupants during a collision, increasing the risk of injury.
Understanding the Safety Defect
The recall specifically addresses the front seat belt pretensioners, which are designed to instantly tighten seat belts during sudden deceleration or impact. In affected vehicles, these pretensioners may not deploy correctly in a crash scenario, compromising the restraint system's effectiveness.
Immediate Action Recommended
Owners of 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris vans should verify whether their vehicle is included in this recall and schedule prompt repairs at an authorized service center.
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Recall Resolution
Mercedes-Benz has authorized the following corrective action:
- Free replacement of both front seat belt assemblies
- Genuine OEM parts meeting all safety specifications
- Expert installation by certified technicians
Repair Timeline and Process
Daimler Vans USA began notifying affected owners in mid-year. The repair procedure typically takes approximately 1.5-2 hours to complete at authorized Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle service centers.
What Owners Should Do
If you own a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris, follow these steps immediately:
1. Verify Your Vehicle's Recall Status
Check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through these official channels:
- Mercedes-Benz Recall Hotline: 877-762-8267
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
- Official NHTSA website: www.safercar.gov
2. Schedule Your Free Repair
Once confirmed, contact your nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle dealer to schedule the seat belt replacement. The repair will be performed at no cost to you.
Finding an Authorized Service Center
Use MotorVero's Service & Repair Locator to find certified Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle specialists in your area who can perform this recall repair.
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Understanding Seat Belt Pretensioners
Seat belt pretensioners are crucial safety components that:
- Automatically remove slack from seat belts during collisions
- Work in conjunction with airbag systems
- Help position occupants optimally for airbag deployment
- Reduce forward movement during frontal impacts
Why This Recall Matters
Properly functioning pretensioners can mean the difference between walking away from an accident and sustaining serious injuries. NHTSA research shows that seat belts reduce fatal injury risk by 45% when working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if my Metris is affected?
Mercedes-Benz is contacting all registered owners by mail. However, VIN checks provide the most current information, especially if you've moved since purchasing the vehicle.
Is it safe to drive my van before the repair?
While the seat belts still function normally for everyday use, their crash performance may be compromised. Limit driving when possible until repairs are complete.
What if I already paid for this repair?
You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact Mercedes-Benz customer service with your repair documentation.
How long will the repair take?
Most appointments are completed within two hours, though service center workload may affect scheduling availability.
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Additional Safety Resources
For more information about vehicle safety and recalls:
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236 (TTY: 800-424-9153)
- Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance: 800-367-6372
- MotorVero Recall Center: Comprehensive database of active vehicle recalls
Stay Informed About Vehicle Recalls
Bookmark MotorVero's Recall Center for the latest safety announcements and recall information across all makes and models.
