fad,

thanks, and point well taken. i understand very well that i should not burn any bridges anywhere. MB tells me that they are aware of that recall but according to their VIN check, my car has no outstanding recalls, even if the service was not performed. they
do not tell you outright that the recall does not apply to my car, just that they have found no outstanding recalls, which kinda looks like a legalese loophole. i think i am just within the limits of the legal obligation though. for '93 their obligation would end this year.


according to the nhtsa:

"Are There Any Limitations on My Right to Have My Vehicle Remedied at No Charge?"

" Yes. A limitation pertains to the age of the vehicle. In order to be eligible for remedy at no cost, the vehicle cannot be more than 8 years old on the date the defect or non-compliance is determined. Under the law, the age of the vehicle is calculated from the date of sale to the first purchaser. For example, if a defect is found in 1999 and a recall ordered, manufacturers are required to make the correction available at no charge only to cars purchased new in 1991 through 1999. However, consumers should realize that even though manufacturers are not obligated to remedy safety defects in older cars, a safety problem may still exist. If you receive notification of a defect on a vehicle older than eight years, take the responsibility to have your car repaired at your own expense. Eliminate any unnecessary risks...."