Mercedes-Benz has decided to resolve claims brought about by the current and former owners and lessees of the Mercedes-Benz 212 E-Class vehicle models of years 2010 to 2016 in the United States equipped with Burl Walnut interior trim that the interior is defective and can fade over time.
Settlement Website: BurlWalnutWoodTrimSettlement.com
Objection Deadline: 08/02/2022
Exclusion Deadline: 08/02/2022
Claim Form: https://burlwalnutwoodtrimsettlement.com/en/Login
Deadline For Submitting Claim Form: 08/02/2022
Final Hearing Date: 11/07/2022
Settlement Amount: Varies
Potential Claim Amount: Variable
Proof Of Purchase:
For the claim type: Reimbursement for Qualified Past Repairs
- An itemized repair order or invoice or other documentation showing that the Subject Vehicle received a qualified repair or replacement (e.g., the repair invoice must show that the Burl Walnut Trim was repaired or replaced) and the cost of the qualified repair or replacement. A repair or replacement shall not qualify for reimbursement if the reason for the repair or replacement described in any related repair order is for conditions other than fading or discoloration (e.g., automobile accidents, scratches, cracks, or loose parts) or is due to external influences such as chemical exposure, harsh abrasive cleaners, or other external influence unrelated to the alleged Burl Walnut Trim defect, or if other exclusions from coverage as outlined in the New Vehicle Limited Warranty that is unrelated to ultraviolet radiation exposure apply;
- Proof of your payment for the repair, which could include a credit card receipt or statement, an invoice showing payment, a receipt showing cash or other forms of payment, or other such proof; and
- Proof of your ownership or leasing of the Subject Vehicle at the time of the repair.
For the claim type: Qualified Future Repairs and Preserving Coverage Period
- Documentary evidence showing that you presented the Subject Vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or body repair facility for a qualifying repair or provided written notice to MBUSA, and you were denied warranty or goodwill coverage for such repair at the time. Also if applicable, a dated photograph and other documentary evidence showing fading, discoloration, or cloudiness of the Burl Walnut Trim in your Subject Vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz is a globally acclaimed luxury car company selling a variety of high-end vehicles, some of which are equipped with premium Burl Walnut trims. A class-action lawsuit brought against the company has alleged that the trim in the 212 E-Class vehicles during the class period is defective. They tend to discolor, fade and develop a cloudy appearance with time.
Plaintiffs have argued that the changes to Burl Walnut trim are occurring due to poor UV protection because of the faulty materials used. They are not happening due to any physical or chemical damage or UV exposure excluded from the vehicle’s warranty. According to the service bulletin from November 2010, Mercedes-Benz knew about the defects in its Burl Walnut trim. However, the company refused to warn its customers or take responsibility for the same. Mercedes instructed their dealership to keep this defect a secret and coerced customers into paying for the repair expenses.
Mercedes knew about the defect before selling the class vehicles but continued placing the latently defective vehicles on the market. The visual aspect of the defect manifested itself with time wherein some were quick to appear and others took time. Mercedes has agreed to resolve the claims of class members despite not admitting any wrongdoing.
Class members will be eligible for various benefits under the settlement terms. Current and former owners or lessees who previously paid to have their Burl Walnut trim repaired or replaced in the vehicles will be eligible for reimbursement for these expenses. The reimbursement amount will range from 30% to 100% depending on the age of the vehicle at the time of repairs.
According to the settlement, the class members will also get coverage for future repairs to cover costs based on the age of the vehicles. However, vehicles that are more than 15 years old will not be eligible for coverage under the settlement terms.