Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall on certain versions of its 2013 SLK Class due to an issue with the cars’ airbag systems.
The recall only affects 2013 SLK250 and SLK350 models built from October 9, 2012, through November 20, 2012.
According to the automaker, there are only 71 owners affected in the U.S.
The problem stems from an incorrectly calibrated occupant classification system. This system is designed to determine whether a child seat or a lightweight person is sitting in the front passenger seat and then determine whether the airbag should be deployed in the event of a crash.
If the system incorrectly classifies a lightweight person as being a child seat, in the event of a crash, the system would deactivate the passenger airbag. Clearly, this would increase the risk of injury.
The automaker is in the process of notifying the 71 owners affected by the recall. They will be asked to take their vehicles to their nearest Mercedes dealership, which will replace the passenger side seat cushion including the occupant classification system.
For further information you can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (reference recall campaign number 13V236000) or Mercedes at 1-201-573-0600.
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