FSS Lawsuit - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

G-Benz · #1 12-29-2003, 12:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Teacher
What is the statusof the lawsuit brought against Mb for the FSS system on the ml. I was told that letters would be sent and the engine was guaranteed 10 years or 150000 not to burn oil.( if properly changed ). I have called MB and they tell me I.m in the computer but I haven't received anything in the mail. 1998 ml 320 85700 miles not burning any oil using castril syntek 5-50. ...... Also about this steering pump hose recall, will the dealer do anything if you don't have a problem or "if it isn't broke ..don't fix it ...

Most of us ML owners got the FSS issue document via a letter from MBUSA.

The basic premise is that many owners followed the recommended oil change intervals as specified by the FSS. However, the long mileage intervals mandated by the FSS required the use of synthetic oil rather than dino (hence the long intervals between changes).

Some of those engines that were not exclusively using synth eventually saw premature wear and "coking" of the piston rings as early as 50K miles, necessitating an overhaul.

MBUSA agreed to settle the class action lawsuit by warranting ALL of the affected ML-class engines for problems that arise within the warranty period that are DIRECTLY related to the premature ring wear issues as a result of improper oil and oil change intervals...pretty tough to prove otherwise unless you bring in an engine specimen with the exact ailment.

You also should have received a letter regarding the steering pump clamp recall, and the dealer should replace it for free. The issue here is that the clamp design is faulty, causing the possibility the hose popping off when it fails. I have read that this has been most prevalent in cold climate environments.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=69000

Also check out the harmonic balancer issues in these threads as your engine configuration is also affected...

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=82953

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=63512

I've had the clamp replaced by a tech right in my job parking lot. And I got the balancer replaced at the dealership. I paid $270 for the part, and labor was free.

And sdanville, I've been on the synth program since my ML was acquired in 11/98, and it doesn't burn a drop of oil...