February 25, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V109000
Loose Connection at Steering Spindle
If the screws detach, the driver may have difficulty steering the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V109
Manufacturer Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components STEERING
Potential Number of Units Affected 8,595
Summary
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The screws that secure the intermediate bearing of the steering spindle may not have been properly tightened, potentially causing the screws to loosen and detach.
Remedy
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace and properly tighten the steering spindle intermediate bearing screws, free of charge. The recall began April 13, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
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.safercar.gov.
Check for Daimler Vans Recalls
| TO: Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Dealer Principals, General Managers, Sales Managers, Service Managers, Parts Managers | FROM: Anthony Washington, Department Manager, Regulations and Certifications |
| RE: Initial Recall Campaign Notification Model 907 (Sprinter) Model Years 2019 Steering Spindle Bearing | DATE: March 10, 2020 |
IMPORTANT CAMPAIGN INFORMATION
| Campaign | Campaign Desc. : | Steering Spindle Bearing | |
| 2020030007 | PDGSCHLENK | ||
| This is to notify you of the upcoming Recall Campaign concerning the steering spindle bearing on approximately 8,895 MY19 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vans. The recall campaign will be visible on the www.safercar.gov website and may generate questions from customers. All affected VINs will be flagged as “Pending” in VMI. | |||
| Background | |||
|
Issue | Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner vans, has determined that on certain Sprinter vehicles of platform 907 (VS30), the screws for the intermediate bearing of the steering spindle may not have been torqued sufficiently. If the screws were not torqued to specification, they could loosen over time and cause the bearing to move back and forth during vehicle operation. The vehicle would remain steerable, but over time, as the bearing continues to move, the screws could continue to loosen and eventually detach which could impair the operator’s ability to steer the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. | ||
| What We’re Doing | An authorized Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer will replace the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing and apply the required tightening torque. | ||
| Parts | Parts are still being verified. An additional notification will be sent when parts are available for repair. | ||
| Vehicles Affected | |||
| Vehicle Model Year(s) | Model Year 2019 | ||
| Vehicle Model | Sprinter, VS30 / Platform 907 | ||
| Vehicle Populations | |||
| Total Recall | 8,595 | ||
| Dealer Inventory | 759 | ||
| Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for a dealer to sell or lease any new MY19 Sprinter vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.
Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired. Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for rental companies to rent new MY19 Sprinter vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired. | |||
| Next Steps/Notes | |||
| Customer Notification Timeline | An owner notification letter will be mailed in early April, 2020. | ||
| AOMS/SOMS | AOMs – This recall may generate questions from your dealers. Please forward this notice to your dealers ASAP. | ||
| Rental Fleet Partners | This recall may affect vehicles in your fleet. Please contact your respective DVUSA fleet representative for further information and next steps. For repairs, please contact your preferred DVUSA dealer. | ||
| While we regret any inconvenience this may cause, we are determined to maintain a high level of vehicle quality and customer satisfaction. | |||
| TO: Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Dealer Principals, General Managers, Sales Managers, Service Managers, Parts Managers | FROM: Anthony Washington, Department Manager, Regulations and Certifications |
| RE: Recall Campaign Notification Model 907 (Sprinter) Model Years 2019 Steering Spindle Bearing | DATE: April 13, 2020 |
IMPORTANT CAMPAIGN INFORMATION
| Campaign | Campaign Desc. : | Steering Spindle Bearing | |
| 2020030013 | VS3SCHLENK | ||
| This is to notify you of the Recall Campaign concerning the steering spindle bearing on approximately 8,595 MY19 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vans. The recall campaign will be visible on the www.safercar.gov website and may generate questions from customers. All affected VINs will be flagged as “Open” in VMI on Wednesday, April 15, 2020. | |||
| Background | |||
| Issue | Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner vans, has determined that on certain Sprinter vehicles of platform 907 (VS30), the screws for the intermediate bearing of the steering spindle may not have been torqued sufficiently. If the screws were not torqued to specification, they could loosen over time and cause the bearing to move back and forth during vehicle operation. The vehicle would remain steerable, but over time, as the bearing continues to move, the screws could continue to loosen and eventually detach which could impair the operator’s ability to steer the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. | ||
| What We’re Doing | An authorized Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer will replace the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing and apply the required tightening torque. | ||
| Parts | Parts are available. | ||
| Vehicles Affected | |||
| Vehicle Model Year(s) | Model Year 2019 | ||
| Vehicle Model | Sprinter, VS30 / Platform 907 | ||
| Vehicle Populations | |||
| Total Recall | 8,595 | ||
| Dealer Inventory | 739 | ||
| Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for a dealer to sell or lease any new MY19 Sprinter vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.
Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired. Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for rental companies to rent new MY19 Sprinter vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired. | |||
| Next Steps/Notes | |||
| Customer Notification Timeline | An owner notification letter will be mailed in early April, 2020. | ||
| AOMS/SOMS | AOMs – This recall may generate questions from your dealers. Please forward this notice to your dealers ASAP. | ||
| Rental Fleet Partners | This recall may affect vehicles in your fleet. Please contact your respective DVUSA fleet representative for further information and next steps. For repairs, please contact your preferred DVUSA dealer. | ||
| While we regret any inconvenience this may cause, we are determined to maintain a high level of vehicle quality and customer satisfaction. | |||
Campaign No. 2020030013, April 2020
| TO: | ALL MERCEDES-BENZ CENTERS |
| SUBJECT: | Model 907 (Sprinter), Model Year 2019 Steering Spindle Bearing |
Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner vans, has determined that on certain Sprinter vehicles of platform 907 (VS30), the screws for the intermediate bearing of the steering spindle may not have been torqued sufficiently. If the screws were not torqued to specification, they could loosen over time and cause the bearing to move back and forth during vehicle operation. The vehicle would remain steerable, but over time, as the bearing continues to move, the screws could continue to loosen and eventually detach which could impair the operator’s ability to steer the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. An authorized Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer will replace the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing and apply the required tightening torque.
Prior to performing this Recall Campaign:
- Please check VMI to determine if the vehicle is involved in the Campaign and if it has been previously repaired.
- Please review the entire Recall Campaign bulletin and follow the repair procedure exactly as described.
Please note that Recall Campaigns do not expire and may also be performed on a vehicle with a vehicle status indicator.
Approximately 8,595 vehicles are involved.
Order No. V-RC-2020030013
Operation no. of the operation texts or standard texts and flat rates
| Op. no. | Operation text | Time | Damage Code |
| 02 1733 | Operations: Check threaded connection of steering shaft to firewall | 0.2 h | 46 922 51 7 |
| 02 1765 | Operations: Replace threaded connection of steering shaft to firewall (after check) | 0.1 h | 46 922 51 7 |
1 Bolts
2 Steering shaft
D46.10-A003-05
| Topical note | Notes on carrying out repair work in the vehicle interior | AH68.00-N-0001-01S | |
| Topical note | Notes on self-locking nuts and bolts | AH00.00-N-0001-01A | |
| Check | |||
| 1 | Check, whether the vehicle is affected by the measure. | For authorized Mercedes‑Benz service partners, only the entry in the “Extended VEGA Application” (EVA) system, in the “Current” tab, is decisive. An additional test of the affected vehicles in the workshop information system (WIS) or vehicle list is thereby not necessary. | |
| 2 | Check whether steering shaft (2) is correctly fastened to firewall. | Check whether all screws (1) are present and fully contact retaining plate of steering shaft bearing. The retaining plate must fully rest against the firewall.
Replace loose screws (1). If a screw (1) is missing. ↓ Screw in new screw (1). If a screw (1) is not fully seated: ↓ Replace affected screw (1). If retaining plate of steering shaft bearing does not correctly rest against firewall: ↓ Remove existing screws (1), realign steering shaft bearing, screw in new screws (1). | |
| Install | |||
| 3 | Tighten all screws (1) to torque. | Screw/nut, steering shaft bearing to firewall | BA46.10-N-1003-05TS |
Steering wheel, steering column tube, steering shaft
| Number | Description | Model 907 |
| BA46.10-N-1003-05TS | Screw/nut, steering shaft bearing to firewall | Nm 23 |
Parts ordering note
| Part no. | Description | Expected Replacement Rate of Affected Population | Quantity |
| N 910143 008002 64 | Screw | 2 % | As needed |
2020030013
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL #2020030013
This notice applies to your vehicle VIN: WD3PE7CC0
Steering Spindle Bearing
NHTSA Recall #20V109
April, 2020
2020030013
|
Dear Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Owner or Lessee:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain Model Year 2019 Sprinter vehicles. Our records indicate that your vehicle is included in the affected population of vehicles.
| What is the CONCERN? | MBAG determined that on certain Sprinter vehicles of platform 907 (VS30), the screws for the intermediate bearing of the steering spindle may not have been torqued sufficiently.If the screws were not torqued to specification, they could loosen over time and cause the bearing to move back and forth during vehicle operation. The vehicle would remain steerable, but over time, as the bearing continues to move, the screws could continue to loosen and eventually detach which could impair the operator’s ability to steer the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. |
| What will your DEALER DO? | An authorized Mercedes-Benz Sprinter dealer will replace the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing and apply the required tightening torque. This service will be provided free of charge. We are dedicated to always delivering the best customer experience, and respect for your time is a top priority. While the minimum repair time can be up to approximately 30 minutes, your dealer can provide you with a better estimate of the overall time for this service visit. As a matter of normal service process, an authorized Mercedes-Benz Sprinter dealer will also check for other repair measures which might be applicable to your vehicle and this may increase the required working time. |
| What should YOU DO? | For additional information and to schedule an appointment, please contact your preferred authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer at your earliest convenience. To locate authorized dealers see
www.mbvans.com/sprinter/shopping-tools/find-a-dealer. Please mention you are scheduling an appointment to replace the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing under Recall Campaign # 2020030013. You may be asked for your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) which for your convenience is located above your name at the top of this letter. |
| Information for Owners | In the event that you are no longer the vehicle owner, or have had a change of address, please complete the reverse side and return the updated information in the enclosed envelope.
If this is a leased vehicle and the lessor and registered owner receive this notice, please forward this information by first class mail to the lessee within 10 business days to comply with Federal Regulations. |
| To find the most convenient authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer from your smartphone, scan the QR code to the left. |
A VIN-based recall lookup tool on our MBVans.com website now offers a search feature that will indicate whether a vehicle has been subject to a safety recall, and whether that vehicle has had the free remedy performed. See www.mbvans.com/sprinter/owners-resources/recall. Should you have any questions or encounter any difficulty regarding this Recall Campaign, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. If for any reason a dealer is unable to remedy your situation, we are always happy to hear from you. Please contact us at 1-(800) FOR-MERCEDES (1-800-367-6372).
If an authorized Mercedes-Benz Sprinter dealer for any reason is unable to remedy the situation without charge, or within a reasonable amount of time, pursuant to law 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590 or call the toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.
We apologize for any inconvenience this situation may cause you.
Sincerely,
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
A Mercedes-Benz AG Company
One Mercedes-Benz Drive
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Phone (770) 705-0600
IMPORTANT VIN:
If for any reason YOU NO LONGER OWN THIS VEHICLE OR have a CHANGE OF ADDRESS, please COMPLETE THE SECTION BELOW, place in the ENCLOSED ENVELOPE, and DROP IN ANY MAIL BOX. If possible, provide the name and address of the present owner so that we may contact them.
Chronology of Defect (too many characters for the recall portal comment box)
Chronology:
Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG) initially became aware of a potential issue concerning the torqueing of the screws of the steering spindle intermediate bearing in May 2019 in the course of a single vehicle inspection prior to releasing the vehicle to the MB dealer organization. During the inspection, it was observed that while all screws on the bearing were present, they did not appear to be sufficiently torqued. MBAG repaired the vehicle by sufficiently torqueing the screws. There were no indications that the issue existed beyond an isolated case at the time. According to the initial technical assessment, there was also no indication that the installation of the screws had an impact on the operation of the vehicle.
In September 2019, MBAG became aware of an individual customer complaint, which reported hearing a clicking noise when the steering wheel was turned. The customer vehicle had approximately 7,000 miles and it was found that the screws of the intermediate bearing were loose. MBAG launched a further investigation related to the customer’s report.
In October 2019, MBAG conducted a manual review of all VS30 vehicles that remained at the plant. The plant reviewed the torque levels of the screws of the intermediate bearing and ensured they were fastened according to specifications.
Simultaneously MBAG conducted various analyses as to the effect of the intermediate bearing not being tightened according to specifications.
The analysis continued into early 2020 and considered in detail the process by which any insufficiently torqued screws could loosen and the consequences if the condition did occur. The analysis included a review of the necessary forces to loosen the screws, whether one or multiple screws need to be loosened and the effects of one or more loose or detached screws on the ability to maintain steering effect and whether the operator would receive any advance warning about the condition. The analysis indicated that while the condition was progressive in nature, the time for the condition to arise to a level that it could affect vehicle operation would depend on the operator’s individual driving style and frequency of extent of movement of the steering wheel.
Simultaneously in February 2020 MBAG conducted comprehensive real driving tests on its closed facilities where drivers operated a vehicle with a sufficiently torqued steering spindle bearing and one with a fully loosened bearing.
While the results of the testing indicated that all test subjects identified an issue related to the performance of the steering via the audible signals (even while the radio was on) and a nonuniform steering feeling, on February 19, 2020, MBAG determined a safety risk could not be ruled out and decided to conduct a recall.
To date MBAG is not aware of additional field complaints beyond the individual customer report from September 2019.
8 Affected Products
Vehicles
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| FREIGHTLINER | SPRINTER 1500 | 2019 |
| FREIGHTLINER | SPRINTER 2500 | 2019 |
| FREIGHTLINER | SPRINTER 3500 | 2019 |
| FREIGHTLINER | SPRINTER 4500 | 2019 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ | SPRINTER 1500 | 2019 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ | SPRINTER 2500 | 2019 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ | SPRINTER 3500 | 2019 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ | SPRINTER 4500 | 2019 |
10 Associated Documents
Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2020-2
RCLQRT-20V109-0506.PDF 211.146KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)
RCMN-20V109-2207.pdf 1519.259KB
ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-20V109-3182.pdf 101.755KB
ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-20V109-6135.pdf 190.999KB
Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-20V109-8514.pdf 244.861KB
Miscellaneous Document- Supplemental Chronology
RMISC-20V109-3266.pdf 105.04KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)
RCMN-20V109-7994.pdf 673.434KB
Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-20V109-4474.PDF 213.783KB
Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-3
RCLQRT-20V109-8811.PDF 211.241KB
Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2020-4
RCLQRT-20V109-9481.PDF 211.327KB
Latest Recalls Documents
- 【9-in-1 Torque Solution】Complete set includes 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" drive click torque wrenches plus 6 essential adapters (extension bars, universal joint, drive adapters) securely stored in a sturdy portable case.
- 【High Precision & Dual Scales】Factory-calibrated to ±3% accuracy with included certificate; features dual-range scales (1/4": 10-220 in.lb, 3/8": 5-45 ft.lb, 1/2": 10-170 ft.lb) for versatile application coverage.
- 【Clear & Safe Audible Click】Upgraded loud "Click" sound provides a distinct, reliable signal (strong over 5 N.m, subtle under) when preset torque is reached, preventing overtightening and ensuring safety.
- 【Smooth 72-Tooth Ratchet & Quick Release】Reversible 72-tooth ratchet head offers a low 5° arc swing for use in tight spaces and smooth operation in both directions. Quick-release button ensures secure socket changes.
- 【Durable Construction & Wide Use】Hardened Cr-V steel ratchet heads and phosphated adapters resist wear; aerospace aluminum handles ensure lightweight strength and corrosion resistance. Ideal for precise torque on bikes, motorcycles, cars, trucks, wheels, and industrial applications. Backed by 24-month support.
- PRECISE & HIGH QUALITY - Manufactured in Taiwan, our torque wrench is engineered for superior precision. It ships pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy, ensuring dependable results every time. Includes a calibration certificate with a trackable serial number for your assurance.
- DURABLE - Built to last, featuring a reinforced ratchet gear head made from hardened, heat-treated Chrome Vanadium alloy steel for maximum strength and durability.
- LONGEVITY - Protect your investment with our proprietary Electro-Black finish, providing advanced rust and corrosion resistance for extended tool life.
- PERFORMANCE - Easily read and set torque levels with our patent-pending dual-range scale. The high-contrast, yellow-on-black markings are designed for easy visibility, even in low-light conditions.
- OMFORT - Equipped with a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction. The ergonomic, knurled handle ensures a non-slip, comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue.
- Durable Ratchet Head: Made from Hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V) Corrosion-Retardant: Satin Finish. Made in Taiwan
- Easy Storage: A sturdy plastic storage case is included. Non-Slip Grip: Knurled handle
- Easy to Read: High Contrast & Dual Range Scale. Accurate: Pre-Calibrated to ± 4%
- Accessories included: 1/2" Drive 5" long Extension Bar
- Simple and Reliable: “Click” sound tells the preset torque value is reached. Stop applying force when you hear and feel it.
- 【RELIABLE CLICK MECHANISM】 — The torque wrench provides clear tactile and audible signals when your preset value is reached. A 72-tooth ratcheting head and 1/2 inch torque wrench construction allow smooth adjustments, even in tight spaces.
- 【DURABLE & VERSATILE DESIGN】 — Reversible ratchet head, locking knob, and quick-release design make this 1/2 drive torque wrench easy to operate. Whether for torque wrench users or DIYers, it's built for performance and comfort.
- 【WIDE TORQUE RANGE】 — This 1/2 torque wrench delivers a range of 10–170 ft-lb (13.6–230.5 Nm), ideal for lug nut torque wrench tasks, automotive repairs, and engine work. Calibrated to ±3% accuracy for consistent results in every use.
- 【DUAL SCALE VISIBILITY】 — Features both ft-lb and Nm units with laser-etched dual range scales. This torque wrench 1/2 drive ensures precise torque settings in either measurement system, enhancing efficiency in garage or workshop tasks.
- 【COMPLETE TOOL SET】 — Includes 1pc 1/2" torque wrench, 1pc 5" extension bar, 1pc 1/2" to 3/8" adapter, and a plastic case. Suitable for lug nut torque wrench, torque wrench set, and other applications in car, truck, or motorcycle maintenance.
- ±3% HIGH PRECISION AND COOL APPEARANCE: 1/2 inch drive torque wrench (10-170ft.-lb/13.6-230.5Nm)has a calibration error range of ±3%, high precision, and comes with a corresponding serial number, which is easy to trace the original data, and you can use it with confidence.Hairich torque wrench not only has superior quality but also has a superior appearance. The classic combination of black and red is fashionable and textured, allowing you to enjoy a visual feast during use.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL AND DURABLE: Experience the ultimate durability and antiskid with the torque wrench. The main body of Hairich torque wrench set is made of chrome vanadium steel alloy, which is more strong and more durable. The head of the inch-pound torque wrench adopts a ratchet design with a reversing device to improve work efficiency. The square knurled handle is made of aluminum titanium alloy, which is ergonomic and comfortable to hold for long-time use.
- DUAL SCALE AND QUICK SETTING: Laser Printed by dual-range（ft-lb and Nm). Our professional torque wrench is easy to read and provides direct unit conversion, When the set torque value is reached, the torque wrench will make an audible and felt click to remind you to stop applying force. Pull down the lock knob and hold it until the torque setting is completed. Release the hand, and the lock knob will automatically rebound back to lock the value.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN AND POWERFUL: Every design of our industrial torque wrench conforms to ergonomic, easy to handle.72-tooth ratchet, 5° ratcheting arc head, a quick-release button for easy loading and unloading, and an aluminum non-slip handle for excellent grip and control. A recent research review that, 72-tooth ratchets are very professional tooth ratchets, you just only rotate 5 degrees to finish it. Not easy to slip and wear, can be used in small spaces, and is more durable and powerful.
- EASY OPERATION AND SAFETY: Thanks to its bidirectional drive ratchet head, our torque wrench can be measured both clockwise and counterclockwise. When the set torque value is reached, a "click" sound will remind you to stop applying force to prevent damage to the item due to excessive torque. Notice: At low Nm settings under 5 Nm the "click" sound can be too light to hear.
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.