The problem
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 C300, C300 4Matic, C350, and C63 AMG vehicles manufactured January 26, 2007, through July 13, 2011. In the affected vehicles, a poor electrical ground connection may result in the dimming or failure of the tail lights.
The risk
Dimming or failure of the tail lights reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions of stopping or turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Mercedes will notify owners, and dealers will replace the bulb holders if not previously updated and replace any corroded connectors, free of charge. The recall began on August, 18, 2014. Owners may contact Mercedes at 1-800-367-6372.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 14V-177 (14V177000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Tail lights |
| Report date | April 11, 2014 |
| Owners notified | August 18, 2014 |
| Vehicles affected | 252,867 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
- 2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 headlight problems 108
- 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300 headlight problems 118
- 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 headlight problems 48
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300 headlight problems 20
- 2008 Mercedes-Benz C350 headlight problems 31
- 2009 Mercedes-Benz C350 headlight problems 13
- 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 headlight problems 2
- 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 headlight problems 2
- 2010 Mercedes-Benz C63 headlight problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 14V-177 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Mercedes will notify owners, and dealers will replace the bulb holders if not previously updated and replace any corroded connectors, free of charge. The recall began on August, 18, 2014. Owners may contact Mercedes 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 252,867 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.