A/c refrigerant may ignite in a crash
Defect Summary
Mercedes-benz is recalling certain model year 2013 sl-class vehicles manufactured from december 19, 2011, through may 31, 2012 originally equipped with r1234yf refrigerant. daimler ag (dag), the parent company of mercedes-benz, conducted product testing of a vehicle, not sold in the us, but equipped with the same refrigerant. according to mercedes-benz, the testing was designed to replicate worst-case conditions expected in a severe frontal crash that would cause a rupture of the air conditioner refrigerant line. a rupture of a refrigerant line will result in a gaseous mixture of refrigerant being released into the engine compartment.
Safety Consequence
The testing conducted by dag determined that the escaping r1234yf refrigerant may ignite under specific conditions. the resulting fire could spread to additional combustible materials.
Corrective Action
Mercedes-benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the r1234yf refrigerant with r134a along with new refrigerant lines (hoses) designed specifically for r134a. The remedy will be provided free of charge. the safety recall began on november 8, 2012. owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Mercedes-benz Usa, Llc or involving Equipment.
FAQ: Recall 12V478000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 12V478000?
NHTSA recall 12V478000 was issued by Mercedes-benz Usa, Llc on October 1, 2012. It addresses: A/c refrigerant may ignite in a crash. The recall affects approximately 432 vehicles, with the defect involving the Equipment component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Mercedes-benz Usa, Llc dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 12V478000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.