Mercedes and BMW have both launched new safety recalls. BMW is recalling more than 156,000 cars and SUVs in the United States because the engines can lose power or stall.
The recall covers multiple models from 2010 through 2012. It includes some 128i, 328i, Z4, 135i, 335i, 528i, 535i and 640i cars. Also covered are many X3, X5, and X6 SUVs.
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The German automaker says bolts that hold a camshaft housing can loosen and break. That can cause reduced power or stalling, increasing the risk of a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says dealers will replace bolts at no cost to owners. The company expects the recall to start in May.
BMW says another 170,000 vehicles from 2010 through 2012 with inline six-cylinder engines will not be recalled, but will receive an extended warranty due to the problem.
Mercedes Rear Light Hazard
Mercedes-Benz is recalling more than 284,000 C-Class cars in the U.S. and Canada because the rear lights can fail. This recall affects some C300, C350 and C63 AMG cars from the 2008 through 2011 model years.
The car makers says Corrosion on a connector can cause the tail, brake or rear turn signal lights to dim or fail. That can make the cars less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
The problem affects nearly 253,000 cars in the U.S. and another 31,000 in Canada. A Mercedes spokesman says cars in other countries also are affected, but he did not have a number. The company says if the problem occurs, drivers will see a dashboard warning message.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says dealers will replace bulb holders and any rusted connectors at no cost to owners. However, replacement parts aren't expected to be available until August or September.