Mercedes-Benz is an incredibly popular auto manufacturer in the U.S. Consequently, thousands of consumers are affected when a recall is issued. Recently, Mercedes-Benz reported a software issue that affected the backup cameras of nearly 350,000 vehicles. Vehicles involved include convertibles, coupes, sedans, and SUVs from 2019, 2020, and 2021 model years.

Some of the vehicles included in the recall are:

• 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz A220
• 2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG A35
• 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS53
• 2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA250
• 2021 Mercedes-Benz E350 & E450
• 2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250
• 2021 Mercedes-Benz MAYBACH GLS600

For a full list of vehicles affected, see this overview by Consumer Reports. You can also check to see if your car is involved using the recall information search tool on the Mercedes-Benz website.

Does the Mercedes-Benz Recall Pose a Safety Risk?

Yes, the backup camera software issue does pose a safety risk. The problem with the software occurs when the vehicle is put in reverse. Instead of the live feed from the backup camera, the screen becomes blank, or the feed will be interrupted, causing the system to reboot. Because the software fails to display the backup feed accurately, there is an increased risk of accidents and injuries.

How to Fix the Problem

Mercedes-Benz has developed a software update to correct the problem, and you will be able to take your car to the dealership to have this update installed, free of charge. However, if you have a “Mercedes Me” subscription, you will not have to go into the dealership as the necessary software update can be done over the air. If there are issues with the over-the-air update, you will have to take your car to the dealership to have the problem resolved there.

Mercedes-Benz submitted its safety recall report to the NHTSA on May 14, 2021 (NHTSA Recall Number: 21V-354). Dealers were notified of the recall program on May 21, 2021, and Mercedes-Benz will begin notifying owners on July 13, 2021.

What to Do When a Recall Repair Doesn’t Work

In a perfect world, when a manufacturer issues a recall, the problem will be resolved on the first visit to the dealership. However, if your car is a lemon, you may experience ongoing issues. When this happens, it can be incredibly frustrating, and as the vehicle owner, you may not know what to do or where to turn. In California, vehicle owners are legally protected through California’s Lemon Law, and manufacturers have a responsibility to replace or buy back lemons from consumers.

If you take your car in for recall repairs, keep detailed records of all of your visits. This is especially important if the problem persists, as it will establish that the manufacturer was given a reasonable number of attempts to repair the problem. If they remain unsuccessful, the car may be designated as a lemon and will be covered by California’s Lemon Laws.

Why You Should Speak with a Lawyer About Your Lemon Law Claim

Before filing a lemon law claim, it is worth speaking with an experienced attorney like ours at Norman Taylor & Associates. Your lawyer can explain all of your legal options and help you prepare and file your claim. Furthermore, if you do not qualify for a lemon law claim, you may qualify for a breach of warranty claim. Your lawyer can help you identify the best path forward for your situation.

To discuss your case with one of our attorneys, contact our law firm today.