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Mercedes-Benz S 560 Recall 20V173: Engine Oil Plugs Can Leak, Risking Stalls and Slick Roads

NHTSA campaign 20V173, reported March 20, 2020, 9,791 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Two engine oil plugs in this engine may not hold up under high engine loads while driving. If they fail, the engine can leak oil onto the road, creating slippery conditions, or run low on oil and stall while you are driving. Either situation can increase the risk of a crash.

The fix is free. Authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers will reinforce the engine oil plugs by adding a retaining plate at no cost to you. Owners will also be notified by mail. You can contact Mercedes-Benz USA customer service at 1-800-367-6372 with questions about this recall.

Do not wait for the notice to arrive. Check your vehicle's VIN for open recalls on the NHTSA website or with a dealer, and schedule the free repair if your vehicle is affected.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 20V173Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Component
ENGINE
Problem
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2019 S560 and Maybach S560 vehicles equipped with 4.0L 8-cylinder gasoline-engines. Two engine oil plugs may not withstand high engine loads while driving, possibly resulting in an engine oil leak.
Risk
An engine oil leak can spill on to the road and cause slippery road conditions. Additionally, if the engine runs out of oil it can cause an engine stall while driving. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will reinforce the engine oil plugs by adding a retaining plate, free of charge. The recall began August 11, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020060018.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Affected vehicles

Mercedes-Benz S 56020182019
Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4MATIC20182019