SHIM PLATE ‘DEFORMATION’ STARTS MB CHASSIS RECALL

Photography by: courtesy Daimler Europe

Date: 18.01.2021

POTENTIAL shim plate deformation during manufacturing on Mercedes-Benz (MY2020) OC500LE and OC500RF chassis has seen the German manufacturer issue a recall for 107 affected buses in Australia, it was announced recently.

Mercedes-Benz (MY2020) OC500LE and OC500RF models are involved in the current shim plate recall, ACC reports.

The models were sold nationally and were available for sale 14 October, 2019 - 31 December, 2020, supplied by Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific Pty Ltd — Mercedes-Benz Buses.

According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACC), the shim plate installed between the spring support and plastic roller piston may have deformed during manufacturing. Due to the deformation, the plastic roller piston's threaded connection may detach, causing the vehicle to lean to one side, it states.

In addition, if the rear axle of the vehicle suffers a significant impact, rear suspension components may detach from the vehicle, it adds.

"Components detaching from the vehicle may cause a hazard to other road users, increasing the likelihood of an accident that could result in the injury or death of vehicle occupants and/or other road users," the ACC explains.

WHAT TO DO

Owners are asked to contact any Authorised Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Dealer, who will replace the shim plates with a stronger version, free of charge, it confirms.

Owners should phone 1800 033 557 for the contact details of an authorised Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Dealership.

A full list of the affected VINs (Vehicle identification number) can be searched through via here: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recall/daimler-truck-and-bus-australia-pacific-pty-ltd-mercedes-benz-buses-models-oc500le-and-oc500rf-my2020

The responsible regulator for this recall is the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.

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