NHTSA Complaint #11688424 — 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ C250

STEERING issue reported to NHTSA

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Complaint Details

ODI Number 11688424
Vehicle 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ C250
Component STEERING
Date of Incident
Date Filed
Mileage N/A miles
Crash No
Fire No
Injuries 0
Deaths 0
Vehicle Towed No
State TX

Consumer Description

The "ESL Module" in this model is designed to unlock the steering and ignition when the vehicle key's passcode matches, using a small, mechanical motor with significantly poor durability. The problem is that this motor's failure is unpredictable, and many users of this model have been stranded and unable to start their vehicles due to the motor's lifespan ending. Even when the car is painstakingly brought to a dealership, repairs cost approximately $1,800 to $2,000, or owners are resorting to unofficial bypasses using a device called an ESL Emulator from the aftermarket. I'd like to request NHTSA to start a thorough investigation into this issue and a RECALL order for the affected models to be issued to MBUSA. Thank you.

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