The problem
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S400, S550, S550 4Matic, S63 AMG, C300, C300 4Matic, E350, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, CL550 4Matic, and CL63 AMG vehicles manufactured from April 18, 2011, through July 12, 2011. Due to an irregularity stemming from the molding process of the fuel filter flange, the fuel filter flange may crack when operated in high temperatures.
The risk
If the fuel filter flange cracks, it will leak fuel which may lead to a fire if an external ignition source is present.
The fix
Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-557 (12V557000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 2013010004 |
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Fuel system, gasoline |
| Report date | December 3, 2012 |
| Owners notified | February 15, 2013 |
| Vehicles affected | 5,800 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL550
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK350
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S400
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz S400
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63
Plus 3 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300 fuel system problems 44
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300 fuel system problems 12
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL550 fuel system problems 1
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 fuel system problems 32
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 fuel system problems 35
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 fuel system problems 21
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 fuel system problems 13
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S400 fuel system problems 2
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550 fuel system problems 2
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 fuel system problems 3
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 fuel system problems 3
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-557 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. 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 5,800 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.