{"count":1,"message":"Results returned successfully","results":[{"odiNumber":11458128,"manufacturer":"Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC","crash":false,"fire":false,"numberOfInjuries":0,"numberOfDeaths":0,"dateOfIncident":"03/24/2022","dateComplaintFiled":"03/24/2022","vin":"WDDGF8BB7CR","components":"SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES","summary":"From the mechanics notes:  Four-wheel alignment could not be completed. Attempts to align the rear axle were unsuccessful due to flexing/movement in the rear suspension. A brief road test revealed occasional suspension “clunking” coming from the rear of the vehicle. Close examination of every suspension component mount revealed heavy cracking on the passenger side lower drag link subframe mount (see emailed image). The driver’s side low drag link mount location is also starting to show signs of overstress and rust/flaking. This is a known design defect that has been the subject of a manufacturer’s recall in Canada. Given the substantial safety impact of this design defect/failure, it is expected that a US recall will be forthcoming. Proper repair of this failure involves removing the entire rear axle/subframe assembly and either rebuilding/re enforcing the subframe or replacing it with a new unit and transferring all the suspension components to the new subframe. A current check of subframe availability is showing NLA (no longer available) status  from Mercedes wholesale dealers – likely due to recent high demand and inability to satisfy that demand. This supply issue may also be playing a role in Mercedes’ failure to address this high level safety issue with a US based recall campaign. The manufacturer may be ramping up production of this component to address anticipated need – waiting to announce a recall when it has sufficient parts on hand to execute the campaign. It is strongly recommended that you file an NHTSA complaint for this issue and limit driving until the problem is rectified either independently or under the auspices of a recall campaign. The passenger side rear drag link has not yet completely separated from the subframe but is likely to do so soon which can result in an accident or loss of control as this critical suspension link is responsible for maintaining steering direction of the right rear wheel.","products":[{"type":"Vehicle","productYear":"2012","productMake":"MERCEDES BENZ","productModel":"C300","manufacturer":"Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC"}]}]}