Mercedes-Benz Recalling... Recalled 1998-2003 M-Class SUVs

If not a first, Mercedes-Benz’s action to issue a second recall on the same vehicle because the earlier repair performed on the specific model may not have been sufficient, is something definitely out of the ordinary. In particular, Merc will ask 102,954 owners of MY 1998-2003 M-Class models in the U.S. to bring their SUVs to the company’s dealers to repair a clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the power steering fluid cooler. -Continued

According to information posted on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's official web site, the clamp may not provide enough force for this connection leading to the loss of power steering fluid which in turn could result in diminished power steering over time. To put it simple, you’ll need a professional weightlifter’s muscles to turn the steering wheel with ease.

The agency said that all M-Class vehicles repaired prior to November 15, 2003, will be repaired again with the new recall expected to begin during October 2008. If you happen to have any questions, you can contact Mercedes Benz directly at 1-800-367-6372.

Mercedes-Benz's Diesel Cars Get IRS Tax Credit Approval up to $1,800

Just a couple of weeks before Mercedes-Benz rolls out its new line-up of BlueTEC diesel vehicles, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) granted the German automaker the Qualified Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit, qualifying the ML 320 BlueTEC, R 320 BlueTEC, and GL 320 BlueTEC buyers for tax breaks up to $1,800. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified to the IRS that the BlueTEC vehicles meet the strict emission requirements. So far, this is the first time that the IRS has granted the tax break to diesel vehicles. -Continued

According to the IRS, buyers of the ML 320 BlueTEC are eligible for a $900 tax credit, purchasers of the R 320 BlueTEC may qualify for a $1,550 tax credit, and purchasers of the GL 320 BlueTEC for a $1,800 tax credit depending on their individual tax status.

The vehicles, which are the first diesel passenger vehicles to meet all 50 state emissions requirements and get up to 600 miles to the tank, are equipped with a 211 HP 3.0-liter V6 diesel unit. According to Mercedes, all three models will go on sale on October 1st.