Mercedes-Benz Recalls Redesigned 2013 SL

Mercedes-Benz is voluntarily recalling 432 redesigned 2013 SL550 roadsters after determining that the new air conditioning refrigerant used in the vehicle, known as R1234yf, could ignite under specific conditions after a frontal-impact collision and cause a fire.

Independent testing conducted by Daimler AG discovered the potential problem as the company was replicating worst-case conditions following a severe frontal impact. The automaker discovered that a refrigerant hose rupture could release a gaseous mixture of the R1234yf refrigerant into the engine compartment after a crash, and that the gaseous mixture could ignite.

The affected vehicles were built between December 19, 2011, and May 31, 2012. Mercedes-Benz dealers will replace the R1234yf refrigerant with common R134a refrigerant, and will replace the refrigerant hoses with components designed specifically for the R134a refrigerant. Repairs will be made free of charge, and are scheduled to begin in October 2012.

Concerned owners can contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372, and reference National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign ID number 12V478000.