1996-1999 E Class Spring Perch
 

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W210 DANGEROUS FLAW please read (crosslinked in post #1 to all on topic data)
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I just found out my car is also having the spring perch issue after visiting my dealer. It is only on one side. I have been following all the postings on this forum about issue. I did a search on NHTSA. The NHTSA Action Number PE07021 has all the documentations between MBUSA and NHTSA during the 2007 investigation.

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/index.cfm

The conlcusion is that MBUSA proved that the vehicle is still controllable after the perch failure during a high speed maneuver. NHTSA engineers also verified the result using an actual vehicle without the spring. So now the case is closed at this time.

Now I don't know whether should I wait or pay to get it fixed. I am about to send the letter to MBUSA to see what goodwill if any will be provided.

Car Nut

I'd get it fixed. Murphy's Law says the loud clunk and dropping of the front end will come at the most inopportune time even if you don't lose control.

Sending a copy of the NHTSA letter to MBUSA will just initiate an adversarial situtation. Why not just go back to the dealer and say you are nervous about the safety issue and ask if they can assist with the cost. If they say no, suggest you'll try another dealer. They probably don't want to lose your other service business. Most dealers will split the cost (they're not obligated to pay anything) when approached reasonably. Good luck.

Don't bother contacting MBUSA. Visit your local dealer instead. If you're the original owner, or, if you've serviced the car at the dealer, your chances of getting some help are greatly increased. On the other hand, if you're the third owner, and you've never set foot in an MB dealer, you're probably on your own.

My friend falls into the first group, they covered the whole thing and gave him the keys to a nice new Buick rental car for his trouble.:D

They probably figured they would make it up on the S600.:D