The problem
If one of the headlamp wiper arms becomes misaligned, the wiper balde can lodge in the groove under the headlamp. If the washers are activated with the wiper blade in the misaligned and lodged position, the washer pump will run continuously expelling all available fluid.
The risk
Pump operation in the absence of fluid can cause the pump to overheat and cause a vehicle fire.
The fix
Dealers will replace the headlamp washer pump on these vehicles.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-175 (96V175000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC |
| Component | Visibility |
| Report date | September 19, 1996 |
| Owners notified | November 15, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 28,874 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-175 repair free?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the headlamp washer pump on these vehicles.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 28,874 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.