Mercedes recalls some 2013 SL-class cars to replace A/C refrigerant - Auto News - LatestCarsWallpapers.com

The carmaker last week announced its decision to retain the older R-134a refrigerant in its cars rather than the newer and more environmentally-friendly R-1234yf refrigerant. The newer one was found to ignite in some tests, potentially making the crash worse for those involved in the accident. The vehicle tested was one not sold in the U.S., and involved a worst-case condition in a severe frontal crash that would cause a rupture of the air conditioner refrigerant line.

Despite the decision, 432 SL-Class cars built between December 19, 2011 and May 31, 2012 are affected, the NHTSA revealed. The free fix involves draining the current refrigerant, replacing the A/C lines, and filling the system back up with the R-134a refrigerant. The automaker will contact owners later in October.

The recall isn't being expanded to other automakers, at least as of yet. GM uses the R-1234yf refrigerant in its 2013 Cadillac ATS and XTS as well as the Euro-spec Chevrolet Malibu. GM stated it will look into Daimler's tests to determine whether it should also recall the cars and change out the refrigerant.
Source: Leftlanenews