Harmonic Balancer Recall: Key Points

[gregs210]

Hi, Folks.

This is bouncing around in some of the forums, but I think this is the right place for it since it affects several different models. MB is conducting an inspection and replacement campaign for harmonic balancers (HB) in a few hundred thousand cars. It's campaign number 2005020003.

The vehicles included are in the model ears with 1998 through 2001.

Models are:
163, 202, 208, and 210 with the 112 engine.

129, 163, 202, 208, 210, 215, 220 with the 113 engine.

Also included is the 2001 model year 170 with the 112 engine.


Don't go crazy, folks, it was a supplier problem and just because your car fits that model, engine and year does NOT mean you have a defective HB. You can check it yourself for peace of mind -- I did.

The HB is located immediately behind the large pulley at the bottom-front-middle of your engine. The part number is stamped on the outer arc of the HB, so if the crank is in the proper position it's VERY easy to see. You may have to start and stop your engine several times to get it to rotate to the correct position, obviously don't be looking around under there while the engine is running.

Once you locate the number see if it is one of the two below, if not, breathe a sigh of relief.

The only two part numbers affected are:

A112.035.00.00

and

A112.035.06.00

If you have that part number on your HB and MB knows that you own the car, they'll send you a letter or if you're in good with your dealer, call them to see if you can schedule an appointment. The repair is at no cost to you. If you point out that you've already inspected it and your HB bears the part numbers included in the recall, that will probably gain you a couple of brownie points.


Take care and enjoy the ride,
Greg

[blackbenzz]

What if you already had it repaired and paid out of pocket but not at the dealer?

[Storm.]

blackbenzz - 5/29/2005 7:43 PM

What if you already had it repaired and paid out of pocket but not at the dealer?

Most probably you are shafted and there is nothing you can do except say "thank you". But do speak to your dealer, some might help you get a refund.

[sokoloff]

I thought part of the recall details included reimbursement for repairs already completed.

Len

[98MBE320]

I had the recall work done a few days ago at the dealer. Defective or not, if it's free I wouldn't even try to figure out if I should replace it -- just do it. It's worth the peace of mind. While they're at it have them check your spring perches for rust/potential failure. It's a known problem. Fortunately, there was no rust on my car.

[F18lumpy]

Greg,

Thanks for the info. I have a 2001 E320. I'll consider myself lucky as my HB's part number is A112.35.09.00.

Thanks again,
Jeff

[Peter Guenther]

The replaced mine 0n my 01 and the new part # was 112-035-13-00

[Storm.]

Bugger!!! mines A112 035 00 00 on my E280!!!

And like usual the dealer says,... "err nothing wrong here"

[BackRoll23]

Just got off the phone w/ MB of Portland. My advisor, told me they are sending out letters in "flights" because of the large number of recalls. Something like 350,000 vehicles total. But MB won't let a dealer touch your car till you get your letter. [:(!]

[chawk01]

I called my dealer (Nashville) the beginning of this week and took the car in this morning (2000 ML320). I'm the 2nd owner, so I played dumb about being able to receive any letter.

Upon inspection, they told me that my part was A-OK - no work needed. Hope they actually took the time to inspect the darn thing.