Mercedes Benz cases can be difficult and frustrating, with Mercedes having among the most unusual settlement policies.
Most manufacturers do not like to repurchase vehicles, but at least with attorneys, plainly set forth their position in particular cases Mercedes tends to immerse even lawyers with fluff, with its people prattling on about tremendous concern for customer satisfaction and their willingness to repurchase or exchange a defective vehicle, while they take a tough position regarding the claim.. With most manufacturers, a statement that the car will be purchased or exchanged can be accepted, with Mercedes, that may mean only that the case is being evaluated and when an offer is presented it may well be far less than what the lemon law provides. With Mercedes, one should get each promise or suggestion in writing and not postpone legal action based upon vague promises.
Mercedes’ stonewalling is combined with sometimes unrealistic expectations by purchasers. Ten years ago, Mercedes
was an finely manufactured car. Today, the vehicles are mass-produced with customer satisfaction roughly equivalent to some better American cars, and below that of manufactures like Acura. Unfortunately the lemon law is not tied to consumer satisfaction; one does not simply get a refund because he or she is dissatisfied with the performance or functionality of an expensive new vehicle. Most lemon laws require proof that a defect exists which substantially impairs use, value, or safety. Lights coming on or the occasional malfunction of some parts may not meet lemon law criteria even as it leaves a consumer dissatisfied. Twenty years ago, Mercedes was an expensive vehicle; today the cost of a $60,000 vehicle does not seem that high, when compared with GM Yukons and Ford Expeditions in the 40-50 range. A housewife who worries about transmission malfunction with two small children in the car, is more likely to secure a refund that a Mercedes owner worried about a check engine or other light that occasionally comes on.
The lessons are be realistic about your claim, assume that Mercedes will take a tough position, document your problems and present nonconformities.
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