The problem
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2012 CLS550 and CLS550 4Matic vehicles, manufactured December 01, 2011, through December 13, 2011. The bolts that hold the hood's secondary latch striker may have been insufficiently tightened.
The risk
The reduced torque of the striker bolts might lead to a loosening of the bolts. If two of the four bolts securing the striker became loose, the secondary hood latch function would become ineffective. If this problem combines with a failure of the primary hood lock or if the hood is not properly closed, the hood could open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will check and retighten the bolts as necessary. Mercedes-Benz notified the owners by phone for this campaign starting on 11/21/2012. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-533 (12V533000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Latches/locks/linkages › Hood › Latch |
| Report date | November 6, 2012 |
| Owners notified | November 21, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 23 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-533 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will check and retighten the bolts as necessary. Mercedes-Benz notified the owners by phone for this campaign starting on 11/21/2012. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 23 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.