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High-Voltage Battery / Electrical System Defect — Recall 21V779000 (2021)
EV warning message; reduced power; charging fault; battery recall; fire risk warning
Catastrophic2021
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2019-2026 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: 63 NHTSA recalls — brake, steering, DEF no-start, frame defects. Know your California lemon law rights. Free case review.
You bought a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter because reliability is the foundation of your livelihood. Whether you're operating a shuttle service, a last-mile delivery route, or a custom-built camper conversion, the VS30 Sprinter (2019-2026) carries the three-pointed star's promise of engineering excellence. What many owners have discovered instead is a van with the most extensive recall record in its class — 63 separate NHTSA campaigns in eight model years — and a constellation of recurring defects that have left commercial operators stranded mid-route, mechanics baffled by intermittent faults, and lemon-law attorneys busy. The defining issue is the AdBlue / DEF system: when the heater element fails in cold weather, the Sprinter's instrument cluster begins a countdown to a no-start condition. Owners describe watching the mileage timer tick down — sometimes 200 miles, sometimes 150 — while the dealer asserts they cannot replicate the fault on a warm-bay inspection. It is a scenario that plays out in service departments from Minneapolis to Calgary every winter, and it is only the most visible symptom of deeper structural and powertrain quality concerns on the VS30 platform. Brake hose chafing by fender liners appeared in 2019 and returned on 2021 models. Power steering hydraulic hoses detached in two separate campaigns. Frame reinforcement fasteners were missing across four overlapping recalls spanning 2019 through 2024. A park pawl software error allowed vehicles to roll from Park in 2019 and again in 2022. Under California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, a vehicle that has been presented for repair of the same defect two or more times within the warranty period — or that has been out of service for more than 30 cumulative days — may qualify for a replacement or refund. For commercial Sprinter operators whose businesses depend on up-time, both triggers are often met before the vehicle has left its first oil-change interval.
The issues owners report most, ranked by severity — each one verified against a cited NHTSA source.
EV warning message; reduced power; charging fault; battery recall; fire risk warning
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
A settled Margarian Law case on this exact model, published with the actual settlement math.
Open any defect for the symptoms and why it matters for a California lemon-law claim. Each is tied to a cited NHTSA source.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Vehicles that left the assembly facility without final safety inspection may have multiple latent defects across safety-critical systems. Under Song-Beverly, a recall-backed defect satisfies the 'warranty defect' threshold; an owner who experiences any safety-system malfunction traceable to incomplete assembly has grounds for a lemon-law claim. The breadth of this recall across safety-relevant bolts means symptoms may appear across multiple systems in the same vehicle.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will complete the final quality inspection, free of charge. The recall began May 17, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VSX566ZP25.
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Headlight failure at night constitutes a direct safety impairment under Song-Beverly. This recall covers the control module; if the headlights fail after the recall remedy, the owner may have a separate warranty defect claim. Two trips to the dealer for non-functioning headlights triggers Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption for safety defects.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and retrofit the sensor and correctly calibrate the rotation angle sensor, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3LEDSENS.
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Loss of high-beam switching is a visibility hazard on unlit roads, directly impairing safety. Any post-repair recurrence of the switch fault is a second attempt under Song-Beverly. Commercial operators driving overnight routes face compounded risk.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will update the control unit software, free of charge. The recall began June 14, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3FERNLI.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Window glass that separates from its frame during operation presents an ejection and laceration hazard. Under Song-Beverly, a safety-impairing defect backed by a federal recall gives the owner immediate standing; if the recall remedy does not fully resolve the glass retention issue, the owner has grounds for a lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner dealers will replace the single-pane safety glass with laminated safety glass., free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on August 16, 2019. The recall began January 21, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Running lights and tail lights are required for nighttime and adverse-weather visibility; their failure creates a rear-collision hazard. Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption applies if the switch fault recurs after the recall repair.
MBUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will update the body control unit software, free of charge. The recall began September 30, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is VS3HELI.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A hood that opens unexpectedly at speed causes complete loss of forward visibility — a catastrophic driving hazard. This recall-backed defect is among the clearest Song-Beverly triggers; any dealer visit for a hood that won't stay closed satisfies the safety impairment threshold from the first repair attempt.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the screw connection, tightening it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 1, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3HAUBOSS.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Like iss-01 (19V222000), this recall covers vehicles that bypassed the safety inspection process. Owners of affected 2018-2019 Sprinters should verify recall completion; any safety-system malfunction post-recall may indicate an untreated defect and supports a lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and vehicles will be returned to the reassembly plant for comprehensive inspection and, if necessary, corrective action, free of charge. The recall began November 15, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VSX566
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
An airbag system that was never activated at production means occupants have zero supplemental restraint protection in a crash. This is among the most serious safety defects possible. Under Song-Beverly, airbag non-deployment risk satisfies the safety impairment threshold; the recall remedy must be verified; if the ACM is not activated after the repair attempt, the owner has a clear lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles to determine if the airbag systems have been activated, correcting them as necessary, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on November 22, 2019. The recall began February 10, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA custome
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Door structural defects can compromise intrusion resistance in a side collision. Song-Beverly covers this as a safety impairment; if the dealer's repair does not fully restore door structure integrity (e.g., weld quality), the owner may return with the same defect for a second attempt.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the installation of the abutting wedge on the driver and front passenger side, correcting it, as necessary, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on November 22, 2019. The recall began February 10, 2020. Owners may contact DVUS
engine stalls while driving; vehicle will not start; loss of power; fuel pump recall
A diesel fuel pump that detaches from the tank can cause an abrupt engine stall at highway speed, creating a crash risk. This recall-backed defect qualifies as a safety impairment under Song-Beverly. If the bayonet lock fails after the recall remedy is applied, the owner has grounds for a lemon-law claim on the second attempt.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the bayonet lock on the fuel pump, locking it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 3, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KRAFMOD.
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
A seat that collapses under crash loads can place the occupant outside the airbag deployment zone, compounding injury risk. Under Song-Beverly, any structural seat defect is a safety impairment from the first repair attempt. Commercial drivers who sit in the same seat for hours are at elevated risk from weld fatigue.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the tilt adjuster for the front seats, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on December 19, 2019. The recall began March 9, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is V
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Equipment compliance defects typically do not rise to Song-Beverly safety impairment alone, but if the non-compliant equipment affects driver visibility, load securement, or emergency egress, it may support a combined-defect lemon-law claim alongside other issues on the same vehicle.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will correctly affix the lashing rails to the side walls, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on February 7, 2020. The recall began April 15, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recal
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
A loose EGR pipe can allow hot exhaust gases to contact adjacent components, creating a fire risk. Under Song-Beverly, any defect with fire potential is a safety impairment. The recall remedy must be verified; a dealer that inspects and finds the screws torqued to spec without replacing them, and the pipe later loosens, creates a second-attempt claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will renew the screw connection and the flange seals on the exhaust gas recirculation pipe, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on April 6, 2020. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact DVUS
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
A loose turbocharger exhaust flange can direct hot gas toward the diesel particulate filter housing, creating a fire risk. Song-Beverly classifies fire-risk defects as safety impairments from the first recall-backed occurrence. Owners should verify the recall remedy has been completed and document any recurrence of exhaust noise or smell.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will replace the flange seals and properly tighten the connection, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3FLABIND.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
A loose intermediate steering bearing creates play in the steering column that can result in steering effort loss. Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption applies to any steering defect that impairs control of the vehicle. An owner who notices returning vagueness or noise after the recall repair has grounds for a second-attempt lemon-law claim.
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. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3SCHLENK.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
A missing steering column casing cover can allow a catch spring to contact the driver's leg, causing loss of control. This is a direct occupant safety hazard. Under Song-Beverly, any defect creating a loss-of-control risk triggers the safety impairment threshold from the first attempt.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will replace the steering column with one that has a cover, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 10, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3V
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Label inaccuracies alone do not typically satisfy Song-Beverly's safety impairment threshold unless they cause an owner to operate the spare tire above its rated speed. This defect is most relevant as part of a cumulative repair history — multiple recall completions on a single vehicle can demonstrate a pattern of systemic quality defects supporting a lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will replace it with the label with the correct maximum speed information indicated in miles per hour, free of charge. The recall began May 15, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's numb
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A missing spare tire speed label may cause an owner to drive the spare at unsafe speeds. While not independently a Song-Beverly trigger, it contributes to cumulative defect documentation. Commercial fleets that rely on spare tire availability should verify recall completion.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will attach the speed limitation label on the spare wheel, free of charge. The recall began May 15, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BEGREPP.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Non-conforming tires on a heavy commercial van carrying passengers or cargo create a blowout risk at highway speeds. Under Song-Beverly, a tire defect backed by a federal recall is a safety impairment. Owners should verify that replacement tires were installed; if original tires remain, the owner is entitled to recall remedy at no cost.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will inspect the running direction of the tires, correcting them as necessary. If the thread wear is uneven, the tires will be replaced. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 15, 2020. Owners m
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
An incorrect operator's manual for the automatic parking brake may cause owners to misuse the system, leading to a vehicle rollaway. While the label/manual defect is Functional in isolation, the rollaway risk it enables may be argued as a safety impairment under Song-Beverly if an incident occurs.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will provide the correct description of the Auto-P function for the Operator's Manual, free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this reca
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
A chafed brake hose risks hydraulic fluid loss and brake failure. Song-Beverly classifies brake failure risk as a safety impairment from the first repair attempt. Owners who notice brake pedal softness after the recall remedy may have a second-attempt lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will inspect and replace the brake hoses, as necessary. Additionally, the fender liners will be modified. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 8, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer servic
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A damaged fuel delivery hose can cause fuel leakage, creating a fire risk. Under Song-Beverly, any defect with fire potential satisfies the safety impairment threshold. Owners should verify recall completion and document any fuel smell or visible leakage post-repair.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the fuel hose clamp connections and tighten or replace the components as needed, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on November 9, 2020. The recall began January 19, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Production-damaged brake hoses that reach owners without replacement represent a manufacturing defect impairing brake safety from the vehicle's first use. Song-Beverly's warranty covers manufacturing defects; if brake performance is reduced after the recall remedy, the owner has grounds for a two-attempt lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the condition of the brake hoses on the front and rear axles and replace them as needed, free of charge. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3MONTLAU.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
Loss of hydraulic power steering at highway speed requires significantly elevated steering force and may result in loss of control, particularly on a loaded commercial van. Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption applies to steering defects; any recurrence of power steering loss after the recall hose replacement supports a lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the return line connections of the power steering system, correcting it as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this campaign is NV3LETULPE.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
An incorrect printed and digital operator's manual that misinforms owners on safety-system operation can contribute to misuse. While Functional on its own, this defect is documented in the repair history; multiple recall completions on the same vehicle support a pattern-of-defect argument under Song-Beverly.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the printed version of the operator's manual with the latest version and update the software of the digital version, free of charge. DVUSA distributed owners an interim notification on January 22, 2021. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may co
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Hood attachment failure at highway speed results in complete forward-visibility blockage. Song-Beverly classifies this as a safety impairment; any post-repair hood flutter or incomplete closure warrants a dealer visit that counts toward the two-attempt presumption.
DVUSA will notify the owner, and a dealer will replace the engine hood, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 18, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3SCHAUBE.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Brake fluid leakage from EPB calipers reduces overall braking effectiveness and can lead to brake failure under heavy use. This is a clear Song-Beverly safety impairment. Owners who experience soft pedal, brake warning light, or visible fluid after the recall remedy have a second-attempt lemon-law claim.
DVUSA will replace the rear brake calipers, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed on January 4, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BREPB.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A communication module failure disables vehicle telematics, remote monitoring, and emergency call features. While primarily Functional, the loss of emergency call (eCall) functionality may implicate safety in an emergency. If the communication module fails after the recall remedy, the owner has grounds for a second-attempt lemon-law claim for the same defect.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the software communication module for the automatic emergency call system, free of charge. The recall began on May 5, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VSXHERMPOS.
backup camera blank; screen goes black in reverse; rearview camera distorted
A non-functional rearview camera on a vehicle of this size creates a backover hazard for pedestrians and cyclists in tight commercial environments. Federal law mandates rearview visibility; loss of camera function directly impairs safety. Two trips for the same camera outage satisfy Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update on the vehicles, free of charge. The recall began March 5, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3RUECON.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
If the bolt connecting the brake pedal to the bearing block fails, the pedal may lose structural attachment and become inoperative mid-drive. This is among the most severe brake defects possible. Song-Beverly's safety impairment threshold is clearly met; a single repair attempt for this defect puts the owner in the two-attempt window for any recurrence.
DVUSA will notify owners and dealers will secure a bearing bracket to brake pedal by retrofitting an additional retaining ring (with PNR A 907 994 01 00) at the bearing bracket of brake pedal, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on May 3, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA custom
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A door that cannot be properly latched may open during transit, ejecting occupants or cargo. Song-Beverly classifies door latch failure as a safety impairment; any post-repair door-open warning or latch noise constitutes grounds for a second-attempt claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will convert the sliding door from electric to manual function, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3SCHIEBT.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A non-adjustable instrument cluster display can impair the driver's ability to read vehicle speed, warnings, or navigation prompts in varying light conditions, creating a distraction hazard. While primarily Functional, recurrence after recall repair contributes to the cumulative repair history supporting a Song-Beverly claim.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 28, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3DISPKI.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
This campaign expands recall 20V663000 coverage to additional 2019-2020 vehicles. The same hydraulic steering hose detachment risk applies; see iss-24 notes. Owners who received the iss-24 remedy but were not covered under this expanded campaign should verify both recalls have been completed.
DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install a screw-type clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 28, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is NV3LETULPX.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A door hinge attachment that fails can cause the door to detach at highway speed, creating a hazard to following traffic and passengers. Song-Beverly's safety impairment standard is satisfied; any post-repair door creak, sag, or gap supports a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will check the screws and tighten them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3TURSCHA.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Electrical system defects that affect safety systems (lighting, brakes, airbags, powertrain controls) qualify as Song-Beverly safety impairments. Owners experiencing electrical faults after the recall remedy should document each dealer visit carefully, as the cumulative repair history is critical to a lemon-law claim.
Dealers will attach the mounting clip to the correct position, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 11, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3DREHSEL.
backup camera blank; screen goes black in reverse; rearview camera distorted
This software-caused rearview camera outage on MBUX-equipped VS30s complements the Connect 5 camera recall (iss-29). Camera loss on a large commercial van creates a backover hazard. If the MBUX software update does not permanently resolve the camera blackout, the owner has a second-attempt claim. Multiple dealer visits for the same camera fault across related recalls may be aggregated under Song-Beverly.
The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on July 23, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3UXPOBOX.
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
A seat belt retractor that fails to lock in a crash eliminates the occupant's primary restraint protection. Under Song-Beverly, airbag and seat belt defects are the clearest safety impairments. Any post-recall recurrence of a seat belt that won't retract or lock satisfies the two-attempt presumption.
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 21, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA's customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
EV warning message; reduced power; charging fault; battery recall; fire risk warning
A high-voltage battery defect with fire or power-loss risk is among the most severe lemon-law triggers. Song-Beverly's safety threshold is clearly exceeded; a single recall-backed battery defect may support a buyback demand without requiring a second repair attempt if the defect creates an imminent fire risk.
Dealers will replace the engagement hooks on the affected cable duct with expanding rivets, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA's customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KABKAN.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
This 2021 model-year repeat of the fender liner / brake hose chafe defect (see iss-21) confirms a persistent manufacturing quality issue. Owners with both iss-21 and iss-39 on the same or sequential vehicles have strong grounds for arguing a systemic defect pattern under Song-Beverly.
Dealers will inspect the condition and clearance of the brake hose, modify the fender liner trim, and replace the brake hose as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this rec
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Body structural defects reduce crash protection and may impair door operation. Song-Beverly's safety impairment standard applies to structural recalls that affect passenger safety in a collision. Post-repair structural anomalies (door gaps, body noises) should be documented as potential second-attempt grounds.
Dealers will tighten the bolt fasteners and replace the console and attaching hardware, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed February 11, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3HECKTRI.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
A software error allowing the vehicle to move from Park is a rollaway hazard — one of the most serious safety defects possible. Song-Beverly provides the strongest protection here: any post-recall incident where the vehicle moves unexpectedly from Park gives the owner immediate grounds for a buyback demand.
Dealers will update the electronic stability program control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 11, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3PA27 ERI/ERO.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
An incorrect GVWR label may cause operators to overload the vehicle, increasing tire blowout and brake fade risk. While Functional as a recall category, overloading enabled by a false label can create safety consequences that support a Song-Beverly claim if an overload-related defect occurs.
Dealers will inspect and replace, as necessary, the tire and loading information label. Additionally, tires will be inspected for excessive wear and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be conducted free of charge. Interim owner notifications were mailed to owners on March 4, 2022. Owner notifica
front suspension noise; stabilizer bar loose; vehicle pulls or clunks
An improperly installed torsion bar shim can alter front-end geometry, leading to uneven tire wear and, in severe cases, loss of steering stability under load. Song-Beverly's safety impairment threshold is met for any handling defect; if the shim reinstallation does not restore proper alignment, the owner has a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will correct the position of the shim and replace the torsion bar linkages, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3VADREH.
backup camera blank; screen goes black in reverse; rearview camera distorted
This third rearview camera recall for the VS30 (see iss-29 and iss-36) demonstrates a persistent safety-critical software defect pattern. Owners affected by multiple camera recalls on the same vehicle have a particularly strong Song-Beverly argument: the defect has recurred after two separate recall remedies, satisfying the two-attempt presumption.
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 20, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KOMRUE.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
This expanded SIM card recall follows 21V055000. If an owner received the first remedy (iss-28) and is now affected by a second campaign for the same system, the cumulative repair history demonstrates a recurring defect under Song-Beverly. Two recall remedies for the same communication module system may satisfy the two-attempt presumption.
The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update, or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS2SIMKOM/VS3SIMKOM.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
A wiring harness connected to the wrong circuit can cause unintended activation or loss of the electric power steering system, creating an immediate loss-of-control hazard. This is a clear Song-Beverly safety impairment; any steering abnormality after the remedy — e.g., erratic assist, warning light — constitutes a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will inspect and correct the wiring harness connection, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 10, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3LE54ELE.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
A park pawl guide defect that allows unintended vehicle movement from Park is a rollaway hazard. Like iss-41, this represents a severe safety threat that Song-Beverly addresses directly. Any post-recall Park engagement issue should be documented for a potential lemon-law buyback demand.
Dealers will update the software of the electronic stability, transmission control, direct select module, and electronic ignition switch control units, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's numbe
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
A damaged airbag wiring harness from the swivel-seat installation eliminates side curtain airbag protection in a side collision. Under Song-Beverly, airbag non-deployment risk is a per se safety impairment. Owners with electrically adjustable swivel seats should verify this recall has been completed; any post-repair airbag warning light activates a new claim.
Dealers will inspect and reattach the wiring harnesses, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is 5491810.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A cluster that displays nothing on startup denies the driver speed, fuel, and warning-lamp information — a critical safety gap. This is the second instrument cluster recall for the VS30 (see iss-32). Owners affected by both campaigns have a two-attempt argument: two recall remedies for instrument cluster defects on the same vehicle.
Dealers will update the instrument cluster software on the affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 5, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KOMBAUS.
engine stalls while driving; vehicle will not start; loss of power; fuel pump recall
A fuel pump that shuts down during operation causes an abrupt stall, potentially in highway traffic. While NHTSA categorizes this as a Fuel System defect, the stall-at-speed consequence meets Song-Beverly's safety impairment standard for commercial vans. Any post-recall stall or hesitation satisfies the two-attempt presumption.
Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 1, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is 4790205.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Topcoat paint causing windows and lashing rails to stick affects the vehicle's utility as a cargo carrier. While categorized as Functional, upfitters and fleet operators whose custom installations are damaged by the adhesive paint may have additional damages under Song-Beverly's value impairment prong.
Dealers will inspect the paint adhesion and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Depending on the extent of any damage, DVUSA may offer to repurchase the vehicle. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed February 5, 2024. Owner notification letters were maile
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
A strut bolt that separates from the suspension can cause immediate loss of steering control and vehicle handling. This is one of the most severe safety defects: loss of directional control at highway speed. Song-Beverly provides maximum protection; a single repair attempt that does not resolve abnormal steering behavior gives the owner grounds for a buyback demand.
Dealers will inspect the front left suspension strut bolt connection and repair the body contact surface as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 31, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3FEDDOR.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A loose propeller shaft bearing can cause driveline vibration escalating to shaft detachment, which may contact the road surface and cause loss of control. Song-Beverly's safety threshold is met; vibration or driveline noise after the recall repair warrants a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will inspect and replace the crossmember as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3QUERTR.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Missing frame reinforcement fasteners reduce the van's structural integrity in a crash, directly impairing occupant safety. Under Song-Beverly, any structural defect that reduces crash protection is a safety impairment. Owners of 2019-2021 Sprinters should verify this recall has been completed; a vehicle with known missing frame fasteners that has not received the remedy may be the subject of a proactive lemon-law demand.
Dealers will inspect and repair the frame members as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3ROHRAH.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A partition wall that detaches during operation can injure occupants in the cargo area or driver cab. This is especially relevant for passenger-wagon and shuttle operators. Song-Beverly's safety impairment threshold is met; any creak, movement, or gap in the partition after the recall repair supports a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will inspect and secure the partition wall as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 16, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3TREWAN.
sticky steering; steering wheel feels stuck; increased steering effort; steering recall
A wiring harness that chafes against the drive shaft can short-circuit, resulting in loss of electric power steering. Song-Beverly classifies steering loss as the clearest safety impairment possible. Any EPS warning light or momentary loss of assist after the recall repair satisfies the two-attempt presumption.
Dealers will inspect the routing of the main wiring harness and correct it, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 5, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BEFHAU.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Electrical wiring defects on the VS30 have a documented pattern of affecting safety-critical systems including steering, brakes, and lighting. Any post-recall electrical fault — warning lights, system resets, or system non-function — should be documented as a potential second-attempt Song-Beverly claim.
Dealers will inspect and repair the 12-Volt ground connection, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 3, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3HVERSL.
front suspension noise; stabilizer bar loose; vehicle pulls or clunks
A rear axle that detaches due to failed U-bolts can cause complete loss of vehicle control at any speed. This is a catastrophic structural defect. Song-Beverly's safety impairment threshold is clearly exceeded; owners of 2023-2024 Sprinters should verify this recall is completed as a priority. Any rear suspension noise or handling change after repair warrants an immediate return visit.
Dealers will replace the spring U-bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 23, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3FEDERB.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
This is the third instrument cluster recall for VS30 owners (see iss-32 and iss-49). While this specific campaign is Functional (illumination-only), owners who have experienced all three cluster recall remedies have a strong cumulative-defect argument under Song-Beverly: three separate repair campaigns for the instrument cluster system on the same vehicle class.
Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 31, 2025. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BELKOM.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
A failed parking brake cable bracket weld disengages the parking brake, creating an unattended rollaway hazard. Song-Beverly's safety threshold is clearly met; any difficulty engaging or holding the parking brake after the recall repair warrants documentation as a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will inspect and repair the parking brake cable bracket as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 30, 2025. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3HALHAN.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Missing frame reinforcement on a heavy-duty commercial van compromises crash-load transfer and occupant protection in a collision. Song-Beverly classifies structural safety defects as among the highest-priority recall-backed claims. 2024 Sprinter 2500/3500 owners should verify recall completion; frame structural anomalies (flex, noise) post-repair support a second-attempt claim.
Dealers will inspect and repair the frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 18, 2025. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VVS3LAENGST. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A defective forward collision radar may fail to detect obstacles and not trigger automatic emergency braking, removing a critical safety layer. Song-Beverly's safety impairment applies to ADAS defects that disable active safety features. 2025 Sprinter owners with FCAS warning lights or failed AEB tests after the recall remedy have a clear two-attempt claim.
Dealers will replace the short-range sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2025. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3RADARS. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searc
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
A right-side frame member with inadequate reinforcement reduces structural integrity asymmetrically, increasing risk of structural failure in an offset frontal collision. This is the second frame recall for 2023-2024 VS30 owners (see iss-61 for 25V609000). Two structural frame recalls on the same vehicle demonstrate a systemic manufacturing defect and strengthen a Song-Beverly claim considerably.
Dealers will inspect and repair the frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 17, 2025. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3RASCHW. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall w
rough idle at startup; white or grey smoke on cold start; hard starting after overnight soak; engine miss under light load; check engine light with fuel trim codes; diesel smell in cab
Under Song-Beverly, a defect that substantially impairs use, value, or safety triggers the presumption after two or more repair attempts for the same defect within the warranty. Injector failure causing hard starting or misfire directly impairs use of the vehicle; if the dealer fails to resolve the symptom on the first or second visit — common given intermittent injector faults — the owner's repair history may satisfy California's lemon-law presumption. Commercial operators whose vehicles are unavailable for revenue-generating routes accrue additional damages.
XENTRY return-flow balance test; replace injectors exceeding deviation limit; apply updated torque specs; high-pressure circuit bleed.
AdBlue or DEF warning light illuminated; countdown timer on instrument cluster (e.g. 'engine start in 200 miles'); vehicle enters limp mode; no-start after countdown expires; check engine light with SCR/NOx fault codes; symptom worse in cold weather or after overnight soak
The DEF no-start countdown is the defining lemon-law issue for VS30 owners: a single heater failure can leave a commercial operator stranded with no warning. Because symptoms recur after inadequate dealer repair (reset only, without heater replacement), many owners accumulate three or more repair orders for the same defect within 18 months — the classic Song-Beverly pattern. The no-start consequence also constitutes a safety defect under the 'substantial impairment to safety' prong of Civil Code § 1793.2.
Replace DEF heater element; inspect NOx sensors and DEF quality sensor; reset SCR adaptation via XENTRY; advise approved DEF fluid use.
persistent white or blue-white exhaust smoke; coolant reservoir level dropping without visible external leak; engine miss; sweet smell from exhaust; possible overheating; hydrolock risk if severe
Coolant ingestion via a failed EGR cooler constitutes a defect substantially impairing the vehicle's reliability and, if untreated, its safety. If the dealer misdiagnoses as head gasket failure or does not replace the EGR cooler on the first repair attempt, a second visit for the same symptom (continued coolant loss or white smoke) may satisfy Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption for potential engine failure. Commercial operators face compounded damages from lost service availability.
Pressure-test cooling circuit; replace EGR cooler assembly; flush cooling system; inspect intake manifold for coolant residue and clean.
harsh jerk on 1-2 or 2-3 upshift; clunk or thud on downshift into 2nd or 1st; torque-converter shudder under light throttle at 30-50 mph; transmission hesitation from stop; fault codes for transmission adaptation; symptom pronounced in stop-and-go commercial duty
Transmission shudder and harsh shifting constitute a substantial impairment to use under Song-Beverly, particularly for commercial operators where passenger safety and cargo integrity depend on smooth power delivery. If the dealer performs only a software update without addressing a worn torque-converter, the symptom typically returns within weeks — a second repair attempt for the same defect. Multiple dealer visits without resolution is the core lemon-law trigger under Civil Code § 1793.22.
XENTRY TCM software calibration update; verify ATF level and condition; replace torque-converter assembly if shudder persists.
MBUX display goes black or freezes mid-drive; backup camera image disappears; navigation and phone integration unavailable; system may spontaneously reboot; symptom intermittent and often absent at dealer
While infotainment issues alone rarely trigger a lemon-law buyback, the MBUX blackout disables the rear-view camera — a federally mandated safety feature — which escalates this from a Functional to a partial Safety concern. If the camera is disabled and the dealer fails to fully resolve the issue on the first repair, subsequent visits may contribute to the cumulative repair-attempt count under Song-Beverly's 30-day-out-of-service alternative trigger.
Full MBUX software image flash via XENTRY (not partial update); if symptom recurs within 30 days, replace MBUX head unit module.
brake pedal feels hard or requires excessive force; spongy brakes after engine warm-up; oil residue in brake vacuum hose or booster inlet; brake warning light; reduced stopping distance noticed by driver
Reduced brake assist is a direct safety impairment — it increases stopping distance on a commercial vehicle that may be carrying passengers or heavy cargo. Under Song-Beverly, any defect that creates a substantial hazard entitles the owner to a presumption of lemon status after two repair attempts. An owner who returns with the same hard-pedal complaint after a dealer replaces only the vacuum pump (without the booster) has a strong two-attempt claim.
Replace vacuum pump; if booster is oil-contaminated, replace brake booster assembly; clean vacuum lines; retest pedal effort.
sliding door fails to latch fully closed; door opens unexpectedly while driving over bumps; door difficult to open or close; grinding or clicking noise from door track; door hangs or sags; latch indicator stays illuminated on dash
A sliding door that opens unexpectedly while driving is a direct safety hazard for passengers and cargo. Under Song-Beverly, a defect impairing vehicle safety supports the two-attempt presumption from the first repair attempt. Delivery and shuttle operators whose livelihoods depend on a functioning cargo door have additional 'use' impairment grounds for a lemon-law claim.
Inspect track and roller condition; lubricate track per TSB specification; replace latch assembly if spring force below threshold; in severe wear cases, replace track and rollers.
wheel bearing noise (humming or grinding) at highway speed; wheel wobble; ABS or traction control warning light; during tire service, wheel cannot be removed from hub without destructive force; hub seizes to bearing race
Hub seizure that results in wheel bearing noise constitutes a reliability defect; if the bearing fails during operation it creates a safety risk (loss of wheel-end control). An owner whose dealer performs a bearing replacement but fails to treat the hub corrosion will typically return within 12 months with the same symptom — satisfying Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption.
Apply OEM anti-corrosion coating during scheduled tire service; at sign of bearing noise, replace hub/bearing assembly; do not attempt to drive-punch seized hub without protective sleeves.
fuel gauge reads full then drops rapidly to empty without warning; fuel warning light activates unexpectedly; vehicle may run out of fuel despite gauge showing adequate level; gauge reads incorrectly across both tanks on dual-tank variants
A fuel gauge that provides inaccurate readings can cause unexpected fuel-out events and leave a commercial operator stranded, directly impairing the vehicle's use. If the dealer replaces the sender and the symptom returns (a second sender failure is possible on the same vehicle), the owner has a two-attempt claim under Song-Beverly for the same defect.
Inspect and replace fuel level sender unit; verify fuel quality; if dual-tank equipped, inspect both senders simultaneously.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 vehicles. The right longitudinal frame member may not be reinforced properly, decreasing the structural integrity of the third-row seats.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2025 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 vehicles. The front short-range radar sensor printed circuit board may fail and result in a loss of automatic emergency braking and other driver assistance features.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and Sprinter 3500 vehicles. The longitudinal frame members may not be reinforced properly.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The parking brake cable bracket welds may fail and disengage the parking brake. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The instrument cluster illumination may not be adjustable and appear too bright in certain lighting conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Controls and Displays."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The spring U-bolts for the rear axle may have reduced strength due to improper heat-treatment, which can cause the rear axle to shift out of position.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. A 12-Volt ground connection may not be secured properly, which can result in the ground connection overheating and a loss of drive power.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The main wiring harness may chafe against the drive shaft and short circuit, which can result in a loss of drive power, power steering, and brake system control.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The connection between the propeller shaft bearing and crossmember may loosen, reducing vehicle control.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The longitudinal frame members may be missing reinforcement fasteners, reducing vehicle stability and decreasing the structural integrity of the third-row seats.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The partition wall may be missing bolts, allowing the wall to detach during a crash.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The front left suspension strut bolt may not be secured properly, which can result in a loss of steering control.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 2021 Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The topcoat paint formula may cause the windows and interior lashing rails to be insufficiently bonded to the vehicle.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Freightliner Sprinter and 2021-2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Metris vehicles. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with electrically adjustable front swivel-seats. The wiring harnesses for the swivel-seats may have been incorrectly installed and may become damaged, which can cause the front side air bags not to deploy as intended.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with a manual parking brake and 7-speed automatic transmission. The guide bushing on the parking pawl may fatigue, which can cause the parking pawl not to engage and result in vehicle rollaway.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 vehicles. The generator wiring harness may be incorrectly connected to the electric power steering, which can result in an electrical surge.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Metris, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC. (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The shim on the torsion bar was installed incorrectly during assembly.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) may be improperly stated on the tire and loading label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 120, "Wheels and Rims-Other Than Passenger Cars."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. A software error in the park lock system may allow the vehicle to move after the gear selector has been placed in the Park 'P' position without the parking brake applied.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The front axle fender liner and brake hose may be too close, allowing the fender liner to contact and damage the brake hose.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The spring-loaded rear step bolt fasteners were not properly tightened.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. A cable duct may drop out of place due to unlatched engagement hooks inside the battery case. This may cause the starter-generator wiring harness to chafe against the transmission carrier, which could result in an electrical short-circuit.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Metris, and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) seat belt assemblies. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling 2019-2021 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with swivel seats. The wiring harnesses for the front seats may have been routed incorrectly and could become jammed and damaged in the swivel seat frames.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The screws for the front door hinges may not have been tightened properly.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The hydraulic power steering return line hoses may detach and cause hydraulic fluid to leak.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The multifunctional display in the instrument cluster may not be adjustable and appear too bright in certain lighting conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The retaining washer and bolt that connect the brake pedal to the bearing block, may come loose and detach. This could cause the brake lights to stay illuminated, even when the brake pedal is not pressed.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with an optional electric sliding door. The auxiliary lock on the sliding door may be the incorrect type for an electric sliding door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with the multimedia system "Connect 5" and a rearview camera. The rearview image may not display within 2 seconds from the start of the backing event. In addition, the rearview image may be obscured or covered by the visual display of the Emergency Call (eCall) pop-up window if the eCall system is activated while the reverse gear is engaged. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris and 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with electric parking brakes. The rear brake calipers may leak brake fluid into the housing of the electric parking brake connected to the rear axle service brake system, allowing air to enter the hydraulic brake system.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling one 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 vehicle. The engine hood may not have been installed properly.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles. These vehicles may have been delivered with a version of the printed and digital operator's manual that may be inaccurate and/or incomplete.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The hydraulic power steering return line hoses may detach at their connection points under certain operating conditions, causing hydraulic fluid to leak.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The outer area of the brake hoses on the front and rear axles may have been damaged during production.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz and Freightliner Sprinters. The fuel line clamps may loosen and result in a fuel leak.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The Operator's Manual may not contain the correct information about how the automatic parking function ("Auto-P") operates.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The rear part of the fender liner on the front axle may contact and chafe the brake hose, possibly resulting in a loss of brake fluid.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The spare tire label may indicate the maximum speed at 55 kilometers per hour (kph) rather than as 34 miles per hour (mph).
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The spare tire label indicating the maximum speed may have not been affixed to the spare tire.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with winter tires. The tires may not have been correctly installed, possibly resulting in reduced traction in wet or snowy conditions.
remedy available
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 available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The steering column casing cover may have not been installed, allowing the steering column area to be exposed.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The connecting screws on the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) pipe may not have been correctly tightened.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The flange connection between the exhaust gas turbocharger and the exit to the diesel particulate filter may not be attached properly, potentially causing an exhaust gas leak.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The lashing rails on the side walls may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in the lashing rails detaching.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with diesel fuel systems. The bayonet lock between the fuel pump and the fuel tank may not have been closed and locked during manufacturing. As a result, a leak between the fuel pump and the fuel tank could occur. In addition, a gas station fuel pump may not automatically stop once the tank fill level is reached, potentially causing the fuel to overflow.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner vehicles. A seam on the height adjuster for the front seats may have been insufficiently welded.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the abutting wedge, a component attached to the door jamb to make opening the door easier after a severe frontal impact, may have been installed incorrectly.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Sprinter and Metris vehicles. The vehicles left the reassembly plant without the final quality inspection of safety-relevant parts or bolt connections, resulting in possible unknown safety risks.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The airbag systems may not have been activated after vehicle production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The screw connection on the upper hood catch may have been improperly tightened. As a result, factors such as the vehicle's speed, wind resistance and road conditions may cause the hood to open while the vehicle is being driven.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500 vehicles. If the manual turn-switch that activates the vehicle lights is turned quickly from one lighting position to another, the brightness of the taillights can be significantly reduced or could switch off completely.
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Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 1500, 2500, 3500 and 4500 vehicles. The rear side windows may be single-pane safety glass instead of laminated safety glass.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (Platform 907) vehicles equipped with high-beam assist. A software error in the control unit may prevent the driver from being able to switch off the high beams when intended.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with LED high performance headlights. The sensor for the headlamp range adjustment may not have been mounted or calibrated, possibly causing unexpected changes in the headlamp lighting angle.
remedy available
Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Metris vehicles. The affected vehicles left the reassembly plant without the final quality inspection of safety-relevant parts or bolt connections, resulting in possible unknown safety risks.
Every item below comes from this vehicle's documented defects. The more you recognize, the more a free case review is worth your time.
California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (Civil Code §§ 1790-1795.8) applies fully to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 purchased or leased for personal or commercial use in California.
A 'rebuttable presumption' that your Sprinter is a lemon arises within 18 months or 18,000 miles if:
For the Sprinter, the DEF heater no-start is the most common trigger: dealers who reset the countdown without replacing the heater generate a new repair attempt each winter. Commercial operators whose vehicles accumulate multiple brake, steering, and frame recall remedies alongside powertrain defects may argue a systemic manufacturing defect supporting a buyback.
If the presumption applies, Mercedes-Benz must replace the vehicle or repurchase it at the original price (less a mileage offset). MBUSA must pay your attorney's fees if you prevail — allowing you to pursue the claim at no out-of-pocket cost. Song-Beverly protection extends through the full expressed warranty period, not just the 18-month presumption window.
“Could not duplicate” doesn't mean the defect isn't real. Here's exactly what to do to protect a potential California lemon-law claim.
Document the moment it happens. Photos, video, and screenshots of any warning lights — with the date and the mileage.
Get a repair order every visit — even “found nothing.” That paperwork is the foundation of a claim.
Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Note any recall that has no available remedy yet.
Track your out-of-service days. California law counts the cumulative days your vehicle spends in the shop.
Keep loaner & rental records. Alternate-transport paperwork during long repairs matters.
Save everything in one place. Symptoms, dates, repair orders, and every repeat visit — the intermittent ones especially.
The VS30 Sprinter has three chronic cannot-duplicate patterns. Follow these steps.
1. DEF no-start countdown: The heater element fails only when cold. Bring the van to the dealer early morning below 40°F (4°C) with the warning active. Photograph the cluster showing the countdown before you arrive. Do not warm the engine — a cold-soak vehicle reproduces the fault; a warm-bay inspection will not. Ask the service writer to log the ambient temperature.
2. MBUX / rearview camera blackout: The freeze is intermittent and self-resolves. Video the black screen or frozen display the moment it occurs — note date, time, and mileage. Submit the video with your repair order request and ask the dealer to note receipt. If they write 'no fault found,' request a loaner and leave the van 24-48 hours for cold-start inspection.
3. Hard brake pedal / vacuum pump oil: Most pronounced when the engine is fully warm. Drive to the dealer immediately after the hard-pedal event. Ask the technician to inspect the brake booster vacuum hose for oil contamination while the engine is still warm. A cold-start inspection will not reveal the defect.
4. Document every visit: Get a repair order copy with the complaint in your words. Under Song-Beverly, a 'no fault found' visit still counts as a repair attempt under Civil Code § 1793.2.
5. Escalate to MBUSA: After two failed dealer visits, call 1-800-367-6372 and request a Customer Assistance Center case. This creates a corporate record separate from dealer orders.
6. Track out-of-service days: Song-Beverly's 30-day trigger counts every calendar day your van is at the dealer. Log each date — commercial operators may also claim consequential damages.
The VS30 Sprinter's NHTSA recall record — 63 campaigns in eight model years — is not a random scatter of isolated defects. It reveals a platform with three systemic failure modes: brake-system manufacturing quality (eight recalls), steering-system integrity (seven recalls), and chassis structural reinforcement (four frame-related recalls spanning 2019-2024). Layered on top is the DEF/AdBlue heater failure that has become the defining Sprinter owner experience, generating more NHTSA complaint volume than any other single defect.
For buyers evaluating a used VS30, verify all 63 recalls have been completed — not merely opened. For current owners experiencing repeated dealer visits without resolution, California's Song-Beverly Act exists precisely for this situation. A vehicle this capable deserves to be reliable; when it isn't, the law provides a remedy.
— The Margarian Law team
If your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been to the dealer two or more times for the DEF no-start countdown, transmission shudder, steering issues, brake defects, rearview camera failure, or any other recurring fault — you may have options under California's lemon law. Margarian Law has handled thousands of lemon-law cases and offers a free, no-obligation case review. You pay nothing unless we win.
The VS30 Sprinter's diesel exhaust fluid (DEF / AdBlue) system uses a heater element in the tank to keep fluid liquid in cold weather. When the heater fails, the SCR system cannot dose DEF properly, enters fault mode, and begins a mileage countdown on the cluster. Once it reaches zero, the engine will not start — even with a full tank of liquid DEF. This is not a fuel or battery problem. The correct fix is to replace the DEF heater element and reset SCR adaptation via XENTRY. Many dealers reset fault codes without replacing the heater, so the fault returns the following winter. If your dealer has reset the system twice without heater replacement, document both visits — you may have a Song-Beverly lemon-law claim in California.
The 2019-2026 Sprinter VS30 has 63 NHTSA recall campaigns. Most serious: (1) Park pawl software allows rollaway from Park (21V972, 22V796); (2) Front strut bolt loosening causes steering loss (23V849); (3) Wiring harness chafes drive shaft, disables electric power steering (24V166); (4) Rear leaf spring U-bolts at reduced strength risk axle detachment (24V517); (5) Airbag control module not activated at production (19V695); (6) Four frame reinforcement defects spanning 2019-2024 (23V875, 23V876, 25V609, 25V725). If your Sprinter has open recalls, schedule service now. If the same defect has been repaired twice without resolution, you may have a lemon-law claim.
Possibly — it depends on the defect and repair-attempt count. California's Song-Beverly Act creates a lemon-law presumption if: (a) two or more attempts for a defect likely to cause death or injury (steering loss, brake failure, park rollaway, airbag defect); OR (b) four or more attempts for any other warranty defect (DEF no-start, shudder, MBUX freeze, fuel pump); OR (c) the van has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days. The key is documentation: get a repair order from each visit showing the same complaint. Even a 'no fault found' visit counts as an attempt under Civil Code § 1793.2. If you meet any threshold, Mercedes-Benz must offer a replacement or refund and pay your attorney fees — so you typically pursue the claim at no out-of-pocket cost.
The VS30 Sprinter has three NHTSA recall campaigns for rearview camera failure: 21V077000 (Connect 5 software), 21V411000 (MBUX display stays black), and 22V281000 (software error preventing image). If your camera blank-screen persists after one or more recalls has been remedied, you have a recurring defect. On a large commercial van, a non-functional backup camera is a backover safety hazard — especially in loading dock environments. Dealers should flash the full MBUX software image, not a partial update. If the camera fails after a second attempt, request head unit module replacement. Owners affected by all three campaigns with continued failures have a strong two-attempt Song-Beverly lemon-law argument.
Two distinct issues. First, hydraulic brake recalls: eight NHTSA campaigns cover fender-liner chafed hoses (20V181, 21V933), production-damaged hoses (20V631), leaking EPB calipers (20V802), and a brake pedal bolt failure risk (21V152). These are remedied at no cost. Second, a TSB-documented vacuum pump defect on OM654 diesel engines: internal seal wear allows engine oil into the brake booster vacuum circuit, increasing pedal effort — worst when warm. This TSB defect is not a recall; assert warranty coverage. If brake feel returns after a dealer repair attempt, document it carefully. Two attempts for the same brake defect trigger Song-Beverly's two-attempt presumption. For safety-risk brake defects specifically, the presumption requires only two attempts.
The VS30 Sprinter offers real capability — diesel efficiency, payload flexibility, Mercedes engineering. But with 63 NHTSA recalls in eight model years covering brakes (8), steering (7), frame structure (4), and rearview camera (3), the platform has documented systemic assembly-quality issues. The AdBlue / DEF heater failure — which can strand any diesel Sprinter in cold weather — is the defining unresolved concern. Operators who verify open recalls, inspect the DEF heater before winter, and address TSB-documented injector and EGR cooler issues early generally report better experiences. If your Sprinter has been in the shop repeatedly for the same fault, California law may entitle you to a refund.
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