Mercedes-Benz recalls 33,456 vehicles due to detaching sunroofs

Mercedes-Benz is recalling 33,456 older luxury cars because their glass sunroof panels may not be properly secured.

The recall encompasses a number of different vehicles from model years 2001 to 2011, including CLK-Class coupes, E-Class sedans and wagons, CLS-Class sedans, and sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles of the compact Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

A supplier may have incorrectly applied adhesive to the glass panels, either by not applying the correct amount or not allowing a necessary bonding agent to properly ventilate, according to the NHTSA. This could allow the bond to degrade over time, to the point where glass panels detach from vehicles, which presents a road hazard.

If adhesion does degrade, drivers may notice a partially detached panel, as well as excessive wind noise around the sunroof while driving, the NHTSA noted. Mercedes told the agency that it is unaware of any crashes, injuries, fatalities, or property damage in the U.S. due to this issue.

The remedy is inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the affected sunroof panels, which dealers will do free of charge. Mercedes expects to mail owner notification letters Jan. 18, 2025. Owners can also call the automaker’s customer service department at 1-800-367-6372. Mercedes’ reference number for this recall is 22V-954.

Current versions of the E-Class and C-Class are still in production, but they’ve evolved significantly from the older generations involved in this recall. The CLS-Class helped create the “four-door coupe” niche but didn’t have staying power and was discontinued after the 2023 model year. The CLK’s role is now essentially performed by the CLE which, in AMG CLE 53 form, is a Motor Authority Best Car To Buy 2025 finalist.