NHTSA Complaint #11688328 — 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350

Vehicle: 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML350 VIN: [XXX] I have experienced repeated failures of the Blind Spot Assist / driver-assist system since purchasing this vehicle. When I first purchased the ML350 in Texas, the vehicle already showed warning messages (“Blind Spot Assist Inoperative / Pre-Safe Function Limited”). The dealer attempted repairs before delivery, but the defect persisted. After moving to New York, the problem continued. On June 26, 2023, I took the vehicle to The Automaster Mercedes-Benz in Shelburne, VT. Their diagnosis confirmed water intrusion into the blind spot radar sensors, consistent with Mercedes-Benz TSB LI54.71-P-056477. Both left and right sensors and wiring require replacement. This is a safety defect because Blind Spot Assist and Pre-Safe features are disabled without warning, increasing risk of collision when changing lanes. Many other owners have reported the same issue, and Mercedes has issued a TSB acknowledging the defect, but no recall has been provided. I request that NHTSA investigate this recurring safety problem and require Mercedes-Benz to provide coverage or a recall for affected vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)