Motor Distributors Limited (Mercedes-Benz Ireland) has issued a voluntary recall for a small number of Mercedes-Benz ACTROS and AROCS commercial vehicles in the Republic of Ireland.
The recall addresses a safety defect involving missing bolts on the axle support, which could cause the remaining bolts to loosen over time and impair the vehicle’s driving and braking stability.
Affected Vehicles
According to official recall information provided by Motor Distributors Limited and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the following vehicles are impacted:
| Model | Production Period | Number of Vehicles Affected (Ireland) |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz ACTROS | 18 May 2022 – 26 August 2024 | 3 (combined with AROCS) |
| Mercedes-Benz AROCS | 18 May 2022 – 26 August 2024 | — |
These vehicles were imported and distributed by Motor Distributors Limited, the official Mercedes-Benz representative in Ireland.
Details of the Fault
A safety issue has been identified whereby up to two bolts may be missing from the axle support.
The absence of these bolts can cause the remaining bolt assemblies to experience excessive load or vibration stress, potentially resulting in loosening over time.
If the bolts become loose:
- The axle support may shift or lose rigidity.
- The vehicle’s driving and braking functions may be impaired.
- Drivers could experience skewing, pulling to one side, or jack-knifing during operation.
Mercedes-Benz has attributed the issue to assembly deviations during production, affecting a very limited number of vehicles worldwide.
Risks and Safety Concerns
If the fault is not addressed, the following risks may arise:
- Loss of vehicle stability, especially during braking or heavy loads.
- Jack-knifing of articulated units, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Reduced steering control and potential for accidents.
This defect poses a serious safety concern for commercial operators, particularly in high-speed or heavy-duty transport situations.
What Owners Should Do
Mercedes-Benz is contacting all known owners of affected vehicles directly.
Owners should:
- Contact their authorised Mercedes-Benz commercial dealer to arrange for inspection.
- Have the axle supports checked for missing or loose bolts.
- Ensure any missing bolts are replaced and torqued to specification.
All inspections and corrective work will be performed free of charge.
How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected
Owners and operators can verify whether their ACTROS or AROCS vehicle is affected by:
- Visiting the Mercedes-Benz Recall Lookup Tool
- Contacting their local Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Service Centre
- Calling Motor Distributors Limited (Mercedes-Benz Ireland) customer support
You will need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check recall status.
Official Sources
FAQs
Q: Which Mercedes-Benz models are affected?
A: Certain ACTROS and AROCS commercial trucks produced between May 2022 and August 2024.
Q: What is the issue with the axle bolts?
A: Up to two bolts on the axle support may be missing, potentially causing the remaining ones to loosen.
Q: How many vehicles are affected in Ireland?
A: A total of three vehicles.
Q: Is the repair free?
A: Yes, Mercedes-Benz will inspect and replace bolts free of charge.
Q: What are the risks if I continue to drive the vehicle?
A: Driving and braking may be impaired, increasing the risk of skidding, jack-knifing, or loss of control.
Disclaimer
This recall summary is for informational purposes only. Please verify details with the official recall authority or your vehicle manufacturer.
