The problem
On certain vehicles, the sensotronic brake control (sbc) system May prematurely shift to the hydraulic back-up function mode, due to deterioration of the wiring harness connection, or due to premature failure of the hydraulic pump.
The risk
In the hydraulic back-up mode, the driver has braking power sufficient to stop the vehicle, although greater brake pedal pressure is required and the brake pedal travel will be noticeably longer.
The fix
Dealers will install a bracket and replacement ground wire to the sbc pump unit on all vehicles free of charge. Additionally dealers will inspect and replace the sbc pump unit in sl vehicles produced during a limited production period. The recall began on August 8, 2005. Owners May contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 05V-133 (05V133000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 2005070007 & 2005110 |
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic |
| Report date | April 1, 2005 |
| Owners notified | August 8, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 204,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2003 Mercedes-Benz E Class
- 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class
- 2005 Mercedes-Benz E Class
- 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL Class
- 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL Class
Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 05V-133 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a bracket and replacement ground wire to the sbc pump unit on all vehicles free of charge. Additionally dealers will inspect and replace the sbc pump unit in sl vehicles produced during a limited production period.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 204,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.