Recall 08V242000: Trailer Hitch Defect

MAKE/MODELS: MODEL/BUILD YEARS:

Mercedes Benz/GL 2006-2008

Mercedes Benz/ML 2006-2008

MANUFACTURER: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: June 02, 2008

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 08V242000

NHTSA Action Number: N/A

COMPONENT: Trailer Hitches

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 52740

SUMMARY:
Mercedes-Benz is recalling 52,740 M/Y 2006-2008 GL and ML class vehicles equipped with "FLEX-N-GATE" trailer hitch. Some of the weld seams connecting the trailer hitch receiver to the attachment bar used to secure the trailer hitch to the body frame do not meet performance specifications.

CONSEQUENCE:
This may result in the trailer hitch receiver separating from the attachment bar, creating a road hazard which may lead to a vehicle crash. The trailer hitch must not be used for any purpose until it has been repaired.

REMEDY:
Dealers will repair the trailer hitch. The recall is expected to begin during June 2008. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

NOTES:
Mercedes-Benz recall No. 2008050004. Customers may contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.