The rear subframe has corroded around the areas where the trailing arm and control arm meet the subframe on both sides of the vehicle, and has disintegrated around the drivers side rear trailing arm causing it to have detached, along with a piece of the subframe. The metal of the subframe is distorted around the area of the break. The detached trailing arm and piece of subframe are now making contact with the fuel tank as well. The fuel tank could have easily ruptured and ignited when this car was still in operation, as this car was driven for several days before the manufacturing defect was discovered. The failure happened when coming to a gentle stop from 20-30 miles per hour on a straight road. There was a loud snapping noise from the drivers side rear. This car had 92,000 miles at time of the structural failure and has been regularly serviced, exclusively at Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz usa customer service is unable to offer any assistance. This exact issue has led to a recall of the same model in Canada, and there are countless NHTSA reports describing similar structural failures. Mercedes-Benz usa is aware of this issue and is also aware that there is a recall in Canada, but has made it clear that goodwill will not be extended.

- Huntington, WV, USA