Inspect Transmission Wiring Harness Routing – 2022-2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

June 30, 2023 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 23V462000

Loss of Drive Power

A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V462

Manufacturer Mercedes-BenzeBay logo USA, LLC

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 8,178

 

Summary

Mercedes-BenzeBay logo USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022-2023 C300 and 2023 AMG C43 vehicles. The transmission wiring harness may be the incorrect length, which can result in harness damage and a loss of drive power.

 

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and repair the transmission wiring harness routing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 29, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

 

Check if your Mercedes-Benz has a Recall

 


August 4, 2023

2023070015

Inspect Transmission Wiring Harness Routing

This is to notify you of the Safety and Emissions Recall Campaign Launch to inspect the transmission wiring harness routing on 8,178 Model Year (“MY”) 2022-2023 C-Class (206 platform) vehicles. The recall campaign will be visible on the www.NHTSA.gov website and may generate questions from customers.  Affected VINs will be flagged in VMI as “OPEN” on August 4, 2023.

 

Issue

Mercedes-BenzeBay logo AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-BenzeBay logo vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2022-2023 C-Class (206 platform) vehicles with 4MATIC, the length of the transmission wiring harness might not meet current specifications. In this case, the transmission wiring harness could chafe on the front drive shaft, which could potentially damage the wiring harness and result in a loss of vehicle propulsion. This might increase the risk of a crash.  If the failure occurs, the driver would be made aware through a warning message (e.g. “Transmission Malfunction Stop”, “Drive Malfunction Stop Restart Vehicle”, “Drive Malfunction Stop Contact Dealer”, or “Service Required Do Not Change Transmission Position”) in the instrument cluster.

 

What We’re Doing

MBUSA will conduct a voluntary recall. An authorized Mercedes-BenzeBay logo dealer will inspect the transmission wiring harness routing on the affected vehicles and rework it, if necessary.

 

Parts

The remedy is available and can be performed. The approximate replacement rate of the wiring harness is less than 1%. Do not order parts before inspection is complete.

 

Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to sell or lease any new vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired. Once the remedy is available, the vehicles will be flagged as “OPEN” and Work Instructions will be available in NetStar VMI and Xentry Portal. Once the repair is complete the vehicle may be sold or leased.

Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired. As a matter of normal service process, please check for other repair measures which might be applicable to the vehicle(s).

Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for car rental companies to rent new vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.

Notice to California Dealers: As required by 13 CCR 2117, a proof of correction (“POC”) certificate showing that the vehicle has been repaired under this recall must be issued by the dealer, and that such a certificate may be required by California as a condition of vehicle re-registration or operation.  Please reference this POC in the attached work instructions.  Failure to complete this step may result in fines and penalties and lead to customer dissatisfaction.

 


Inspect Transmission Wiring Harness Routing

Test Procedure

 

  1. Remove rear engine compartment lining (A, Figure 1). For basic information, see AR61.20-P-1105WT.

 

  1. Check routing and clearance (B, Figure 2) between the electrical wiring harnesses and the transmission tunnel/drive shaft, and the transfer case for the front axle differential.

The electrical wiring harnesses must not contact the drive shaft or the transfer case for the front axle differential!

 

a. If the electrical wiring harness is in contact but not damaged: Carry out Work Procedure 1.

b. If the electrical wiring harness is in contact and is damaged: Carry out Work Procedure 2.

c. If the electrical power supply line (3, Figure 3) (Cable cross section 10 mm²) is damaged: Carry out Work Procedure 3 .

d. If the electrical wiring harness is routed correctly:

End measure.

 

Work Procedure 1

The electrical wiring harness is in contact but not damaged!

 

  1. Cut cable tie at first clip (5, Figure 4).

 

  1. Adjust length of electrical wiring harnesses between red grommet (1, Figure 4) to first clip (5, Figure 4) as shown. The length must between 90 mm and max. 100 mm. The electrical wiring harnesses may not be in contact!

 

  1. Fasten both electrical wiring harnesses to the first clip with a new cable tie (5, Figure 4).

Check whether both electrical wiring harnesses are in contact at a different location. If so, carry out further corrective measures.

The electrical wiring harness may not be in contact at any point!

 

  1. Assemble in reverse order.

 

Work Procedure 2

If the electrical wiring harness is in contact and is damaged.

 

Carry out the following procedure:

 

If only the protective hose is slightly damaged:

  1. Wrap fabric tape around affected area.

 

  1. Route the electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) correctly as shown.

The electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) may not be in contact at any point!

 

  1. Assemble in reverse order.

 

If one or more of the electrical signal lines (cable cross section 0.35 mm² or 0.75 mm²) in the electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) are damaged:

 

  1. Repair the affected electrical signal line (cable cross section 0.35 mm² or 0.75 mm²) in the electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) using a line connector.

For basic information, see AR00.19-P-0100A.

To do this, cut the protective hose and, once repaired, connect the two ends of the protective hose with fabric tape by means of line connectors.

 

  1. Route electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) correctly as shown.

The electrical wiring harness (2, Figure 5) may not be in contact at any point!

 

  1. Assemble in reverse order.

 

Work Procedure 3

If the electrical power supply line (3, Figures 6 and 7) (cable cross section 10 mm²) is damaged, replace electrical supply line (3, Figures 6 and 7):

 

Use the following procedure to do this:

 

  1. Disconnect ground line of battery of 12 V on-board electrical system. For basic information, see AR54.10-P-0051WT.

 

  1. Remove protective metal sheet (4, Figure 6).

 

  1. Disconnect electrical power supply line (3, figure 6) from electrical connector.

 

  1. Remove front floor covering on the passenger side.

For basic information, see AR68.80-P-0008WT.

 

  1. Remove electrical power supply line (3, Figures 6 and 7) with grommet (1, Figures 6 and 7).

 

  1. Replace electrical power supply line (3, Figures 6 and 7).

The electrical wiring harness may not be in contact at any point!

 

  1. Assemble in reverse order.

 

Primary Parts Information

Qty. Part Name Part Number
As required (1)***Fabric tape 25 m rollA 007 989 07 85 08
As requiredLine connector**
As requiredCable tieA 000 995 25 94
As required (1)*Model 206 transmission wiring harness*
As required (1)*Model 206 transmission wiring harness (Code M254+421+(550/554) +

(M005)

*

* The required transmission wiring harness can be found in the Xentry parts process under the main group 54 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND INSTRUMENTS in Picture chart 545 – Picture number 700.

** The required line connector can be found in the Xentry parts process under the main group 54 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND INSTRUMENTS in Picture chart 019 contacting parts.

*** One 25 m roll of fabric tape is sufficient for at least 10 vehicles.

Small parts such as screws, lock nuts, sealing rings, cable ties, fluids, sealant, etc. are not listed in the parts list. The required small parts are taken into account in the budgeting.

 


Chronology :

In September 2022, MBAG initiated investigations into an individual field report outside the US describing the vehicle’s transmission erroneously shifting into neutral. No crash, personal injury, or third party damages were reported in connection with this field report. The vehicle was inspected and repaired at a local dealership.

Based on the report, MBAG commenced an investigation to determine the root cause of the issue. Together with the local supplier, MBAG evaluated the tolerances of several wiring harnesses and found that the dimension of some transmission wiring harnesses slightly exceeded the specified tolerance range.

In November 2022, MBAG received a field report in the US involving a customer vehicle that triggered the check engine light. Based on this information, MBAG investigated whether the report could relate to the length of the wiring harness.

In February 2023, MBAG expanded its investigation to assess the potential consequences of chafing to the wiring harness on the front drive shaft.

In April 2023, MBAG expanded its investigation further to consider additional field reports to determine the extent of effects caused by chafing of the wiring harness. The analyses also limited the out-of-specification wiring harnesses to specific production batches. Subsequently, MBAG used this information to determine the potentially affected vehicle population equipped with the out-of-specification wiring harnesses.

On June 23, 2023, MBAG determined that a potential safety risk cannot be ruled out and decided to conduct a recall.

MBAG is currently aware of 1 field report in the US received on November 15, 2022. MBAG has not received any reports of crashes, injuries, deaths or property damage associated with this issue.

 


3 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKEMODELYEAR
MERCEDES-BENZeBay logoAMG C432023
MERCEDES-BENZeBay logoC3002022-2023

 


6 Associated Documents

Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-23V462-9228.pdf 645.233KB

 


Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-23V462-3630.PDF 215.811KB

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-23V462-8863.pdf 140.54KB

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-23V462-4564.pdf 879.818KB

 


Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-23V462-4292.pdf 929.579KB

 


Remedy Instructions and TSB

RCRIT-23V462-8321.pdf 1002.785KB

 


Latest Recalls Documents

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=23V462&docType=RCL

 


 

SaleBestseller No. 1
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
  • [Easy to Use—Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest software—no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
  • [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note:The device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
  • [5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
  • [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
  • [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
SaleBestseller No. 2
BlueDriver Pro Next Gen OBD2 Scanner – No Subscription, Bluetooth Car Code Reader for iPhone & Android – Diagnose 8000+ Issues, ABS SRS TPMS, Repair Reports, Vehicles 1996+
  • [Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro Next-Gen is a professional OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool that helps you scan, understand, and clear vehicle trouble codes with confidence. Turn your phone into a powerful car diagnostic scanner—no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.
  • [Read and Clear More Codes Than Ever] Read and clear more codes than basic car code readers. Access enhanced diagnostics for Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag, TPMS, Transmission, and more on supported vehicles, including expanded coverage on newer model years.
  • [Verified Fixes and Real-Time Data] Get unlimited, technician-verified repair reports matched to your VIN, with definitions, causes, and confirmed fixes. Monitor live vehicle data as you drive, view freeze frames, check smog readiness, and analyze Mode 6 test results.
  • [Expanded Make & Model Coverage] Optimized for today’s vehicles with strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, ChryslereBay logo), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Mercedes-BenzeBay logo, BMW, and VW. Enhanced communication on select 2024+ Nissan and Mazda models (see compatibility chart).
  • [Gas Vehicles 1996+ & Select Light-Duty Trucks] Works with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer, plus select light-duty trucks and diesels, including F-250, RAM 2500, Silverado, and Sierra. Built for daily drivers, family vehicles, and real-world truck use.
SaleBestseller No. 3
TOPDON RLink J2534 Reprogramming Tool, High-Speed J2534 Pass-Thru Programmer, OEM Reprogramming and Diagnostic Tool, Supports J2534/D-PDU/CAN-FD/DoIP, 17+ Vehicle Brands Supported
  • Advanced VCI Box, Industry-leading J2534 Pass-Thru Technology: This J2534 Pass-Thru Programmer is designed espically for technicians, independent shop owners, and DIY enthusiasts, enables fast, reliable computer-based programming. It supports all J2534 protocols—including the latest DoIP and CAN FD—ensuring full compatibility with both legacy and next-generation vehicles.
  • High-Speed OEM-Level Diagnostics & Programming: Unlock true OEM functionality with comprehensive system diagnostics, guided troubleshooting, coding, adaptations, resets, and programming—all designed to slash repair time. This all-in-one tool eliminates the need for multiple OEM devices, boosting efficiency and cutting costs. Equipped with High-Speed USB, it delivers 10x more data per second than competing solutions
  • Coverage for 17 Car Brands & Ultra Reliability: Works seamlessly for ChryslereBay logo, for Ford(Forscan), for GM, for Nissan, for Toyota, for Honda, for Subaru(SSM4), for Land Rover/Jaguar, for Volvo, for Wuling, for Volkswagen, for Mercedes-BenzeBay logo, and for BMW. Backed by over 10000 real vehicle tests and benefit from a wealth of practical experience, this OEM reprogramming tool guarantees stable and exceptional performance
  • User-Friendly RLink Platform & Expert Support: TOPDON’s proprietary driver management platform offers a clean interface and lifetime free updates. Access a rich library of real-world case studies to stay ahead of the curve. Backed by a support team with 10+ years of J2534 and automotive repair experience, we provide one-on-one assistance to resolve any technical issue.
  • 6.6 ft USB-C Cable & Portable Storage Case: The RLink J2534 diagnostic tool features a 6.6ft USB 2.0 Cable and a 1.2 ft OBDII Extension Cable, allows to connection your computer easily outside the vehicle. The included handled carry case offers easy portability, storage, and hanging options—keeping your gear clean and ready to go, anywhere.
SaleBestseller No. 4
THINKCAR THINKSCAN 689 OBD2 Scanner, Bidirectional Scan Tool with 34+ Reset, 3000+ Active Test, ECU Coding, PMI, Wired Full System Diagnostic Scanner for Cars, CANFD/DOIP, FCA SGW AutoAuth
  • 【Warm Tips】Wired THINKSCAN 689 is connected through a detachable OBDII cable, and we also have added OBD2 Extension Cable (about 60 cm/2 feet) as g ift, enabling customers handling vehicle repairs with ease. Just click "Bundles Item" above to get it. Note: FCA AutoAuth is a third-party service, additional cost may be required.
  • 【Professional Car Diagnostic Tool】Tired of renew fees? Thinkscan 689 scanner provides dealer-level advanced functions without annual fees for auto mechanics and repair shops. 34+ Services, 3000+ Active Test, ECU Coding, 140+ Brands Coverage, FCA AutoAuth, CANFD&DOIP Protocol, Component Matching, Power Balance, V.A.G Guided, Compatible with Google Chrome integration, etc. With strong hardware backing, 64G Memory, Android 10, 4-core processors, and 4150mAh battery. Thinkscan 689 brings you the best as your daily business helper and never lets you drop the ball!
  • 【Over 34 Reset Service, Adaptation + Relearn + Calibration + Initialization + Matching】Made for workshops, Thinkscan 689 scanner provides 34+ services for worldwide vehicles: such as Gear/SAS/EPB/TPMS/D.P.F/I.M.M.O/BMS/ETS/Oil/Brake/AFS/GEARBOX/SUNROOF/SUS Reset, ABS Bleed, Injector coding, etc. Warm tips: Compatibility may vary on vehicles' model and year, please contact seller before purchase to make sure it works well on your cars.
  • 【Real Active Test】Thinkscan 689 scan tool features over 3000+ full bi-directional control ability, to send commands to vehicle’s systems/components, to verify system input/output without using the vehicle's controls, e.g. turn on the radiator fan, modulate the throttle, open/close windows, operate mirrors, Injector Buz Test, turn on interior&exterior lights, sound horn, test door lock actuators, turn on/off front/rear side ACM Solenoid, Vehicle level position calibration, Wheel Speed Sensor Supply.
  • 【Comprehensive Solutions with Advanced Features】Take your vehicle customization to the next level with the Thinkscan 689's advanced ECU coding capabilities. This scan tool provides power balance, PMI, unlock more new features and enhance performance by activating dormant functions, customizing OE settings, matching replaced components, and reprogramming adaptive data to elevate your driving experience. Note: Compatibility varies by car models, please check before order.
SaleBestseller No. 5
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light
29,913 Reviews
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light
  • 【Read Fault Codes】About the read code funtion needs to be in the ignition on state and if the check engine light is on. If the vehicle is compatible with NT301, please select correct menu & ensure no hardware/wiring issues/obd2 interface damage for accurate results. The correct menu: Select OBDII-> Wait for seconds-> Select Read codes.
  • 【Vehicle CEL Doctor】The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to e-missions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle. The fault code will appear again even though you cleared before, if you don't repair the car completely. The fault code only can be cleared by NT301 after car repair finished, as like all the obd2 scanner's working principle.
  • 【Live Data Graphing & Accuracy for Most OBD2 Vehicles】View and log live sensor data in graph form—monitor oxygen sensors, fuel trims, coolant temp, RPM, and more. Spot trends and suspicious values in real time. Compatible with most 1996+ gasoline cars, light trucks, and SUVs sold in the U.S., as well as many 2000+ European and Asian models. Also works on 12V diesel vehicles equipped with OBD2. It's a basic code reader and DOESN'T't support to scan ABS, SRS, EPB, A/C systems, battery, etc, . It also DOESN'T support ANY special functions like bidirectional control, calibration or reset advanced function related.
  • 【Advanced OBDII Modes 】 This car scanner provides enhanced obd2 modes capabilities: O-2 sensors test and EVAP system leak monitor. It allows you to run a leak check on your car’s EVAP system and assess the fuel tank’s condition. The O-2 sensor test helps optimize the air-fuel ratio, boosting fuel economy and cutting em-issions. Saving you money on gas and reducing your vehicle’s environmental footprint.
  • 【OBDII Protocols & Compatibility】The NT301 supports OBDII protocols like KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. The device is compatible with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs. Kindly check the vehicle compatibility before the purchase since the function comatibility and car compatibility vary from different car models, year and vin.

 


This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

Leave a Comment

Share to...