NHTSA Complaint #11589443 — 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C300

This is a low mileage car with odometer reading of 25668 (less than 2000 miles per year), used sparingly and always parked in the garage. On 05/07/2024 I noticed brake fluid flowing from the left rear side of the car; on examination this seemed to come from the flexible hose that connects the brake fluid line to the brake caliper. I called my Mercedes-Benz (MB) dealer and arranged for further inspection and service. The technician identified that the brake fluid lines to the rear were both totally corroded and in need of immediate replacement. Since the lines were embedded behind the subframe it necissated lowering the subframe to access. Other parts were also severely corroded and required replacement. (see attached PDF of Invoice) The total cost of the repair was $4,592.93. The dealership applied a discount of $150.00 to this for an amount due of $4,442.93. As an engineer, I believe the material used for the brake fluid lines were unsuitable and furthermore were unprotected for the harsh environment experienced under the car, and I believe MB with all their experience in automobiles manufacturing over the years clearly should have known and forseen this fact; I do believe that MB is responsible for this premature failure of the brake lines of my car aven driven only 25,666 miles to date. I am therefore requesting NHTSA to require MB to reimburse me for the unnecessary expense of the costly repairs. It is only fortunate that this failure was identified in my garage and not on the highway. Please advise me of your resolution. Thank you.