Recalls apply to specific production ranges. To see whether a particular car still has an open recall, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are free at authorised dealers.
2004 Mercedes-Benz S Class recalls
Electrical system
NHTSA campaign 08V303000 · reported July 7, 2008 · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. · 404 vehicles potentially affected
- The problem
- Mercedes-benz is recalling my 2006-2008 m-class, r-class, my 2005-2009 slk-class, my 2005-2008 c-class, my 2003-2004 and 2006-2008 clk-class, my 2003-2008 e-class, my 2004 and 2008 cl-class, my 2008 cls-class, my 2004 and 2007-2008 s-class, my 2003 g-class, and my 2003-2004, 2006 and 2009 sl-class vehicles. A software calibration number (scn) coding received on the affected vehicles during a recent workshop visit was incorrect. Depending on the model year and model affected, the results of an incorrect scn coding can affect a number of vehicle safety and emission functions including the following types of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings may be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor may not be displayed in the instrument cluster; (3) the obd system may cause the check engine light to illuminate incorrectly; and, (4) the speedometer may be out of tolerance.
- The risk
- In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump may not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed.
- The fix
- Dealers will recode the scn free of charge. The recall began on august 30, 2008. Owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Suspension · Engine and engine cooling
NHTSA campaign 07V263000 · reported June 12, 2007 · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. · 19,924 vehicles potentially affected
- The problem
- On certain vehicles, corrosion may occur in the inner steel portions of the active body control's (abc) high pressure distribution hose due to extensive exposure to humidity causing deterioration of the hose.
- The risk
- This may result in abc hydraulic fluid leakage near the catalytic converter. Leaking fluid may come in contact with hot engine components and lead to a possible fire.
- The fix
- Dealers will install new corrosion resistant abc high pressure distribution hose. The recall began on july 2, 2007. Owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Interior lighting
NHTSA campaign 06V028000 · reported February 2, 2006 · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. · 36,911 vehicles potentially affected
- The problem
- On certain vehicles, the instrument cluster is experiencing electrical malfunctions. The instrument cluster contains gauges and indicators that must be illuminated whenever the vehicle is in operation.
- The risk
- Due to inadequate illumination, the driver will be unable to read the gauges and indicators, such as the speedometer, which could increase the risk of a crash.
- The fix
- Dealers will replace the instrument cluster modules. The recall will be conducted in phases. Phase I was mailed out to approximately 7,500 owners on september 29, 2006. Phase II and phase III is scheduled for december 2006. Owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Latches/locks/linkages: trunk lid, lock
NHTSA campaign 04V285000 · reported June 9, 2004 · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. · 16,690 vehicles potentially affected
- The problem
- On certain vehicles, the trunk lid springs could fail in the closed trunk lid position.
- The risk
- If the trunk lid is manually lifted, it may not remain in the up position and could cause injury if it comes down while someone is reaching into the trunk.
- The fix
- Dealers will replace both trunk lid springs. The recall began august 17, 2004. Owners should contact mercedes- benz at 1-800-367-6372.
What owners report
Recent complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. These are unverified accounts from owners, not findings.
Mar 27, 2014 · Air bags · 108,749 miles
SRS SYSTEM NOT OPERATING ON PASSENGER SIDE.
Jan 16, 2012 · Visibility · 38,954 miles
REAR VIEW MIRROR LEAKING . LAVA EFFECT, BLURRED, DIMMER FAILURE.
Apr 14, 2011 · Service brakes, hydraulic · 64,000 miles
I RECEIVED A BAS/ESP MALFUNCTION ON MY STEERING WHEEL. THIS IS THE SECOND TIRE MONITOR THAT HAS FAILED ON THIS CAR. I HAVE CONTACTED MERCEDES AND NOTIFIED THEM OF THE PROBLEM. THEY HAVE OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE IN REPAIRING THIS SAFETY/MECHANICAL FAILURE. THIS CAR SHOULD NOT HAVE THESE SENSORS GOING BAD THIS QUICKLY.
Jan 18, 2011 · Steering · 68,000 miles
TL CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT HER CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND OIL WAS LEAKING IN THE VEHICLE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED AS THE POWER STEERING PUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS…
Sep 21, 2010 · Electrical system · 33,243 miles · fire reported
TL CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MERCEDES BENZ S500. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH HE STARTED TO SMELL AN ELECTRICAL FIRE AND CONTINUED TO DRIVE TO HIS DESTINATION. AFTER ARRIVING TO HIS DESTINATION HE NOTICED THAT EVERYTHING ELECTRICAL IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER WORKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE…
Source: NHTSA recall and complaint data, updated October 27, 2026. Latest complaint received March 27, 2014.