Preliminary Evaluation · Closed
Low Pressure Fuel Supply Hose Leak
Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC - DBA Sprinter
This investigation led to a recall
NHTSA links this probe to recall campaign 18V837000.
Read the recall: what is defective and the free fix →What NHTSA is examining
On November 27, 2018, Daimler Vans USA, LLC submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing two engine compartment fuel hose connection defects in certain model year (MY) 2016 and 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris vehicles (Recall 18V-837).The recall scope includes approximately 12,383 Metris vehicles manufactured from March 2, 2015 (SOP) to March 15, 2017.The defects may result in leakage from an upper hose connection that feeds the high-pressure fuel pump or from a lower hose connection of the fuel transition hose between the underbody fuel line and the Shrader valve.The upper connection defect was caused by thermal aging of the hose material (Veritas hose), resulting in a loss of elasticity over time.The thermal aging of the hose leads to a progressive reduction of sealing performance, which is most evident at low ambient temperatures.The problem was corrected by changing to a hose with better material properties (ContiTech hose).The lower connection defect was caused by a manufacturing process problem, where the hose clamp may have been installed using an incorrect tool.The recall remedy involves replacing the upper and lower hoses and clamps, as necessary, and ensuring proper installation. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-002 to investigate nine (9) complaints (VOQs) reporting incidents of gasoline odor or leakage in nine (9) model year (MY) 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris vans (subject vehicles).Eight (8) of the VOQs…
Vehicles under investigation
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation records, updated daily. An investigation is not a determination that a defect exists; many probes close without a recall.