Table 1 shows three common vehicle speed control related problems of the 2000 Mercedes Benz 320.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Accelerator Pedal problems | |
| Cruise Control problems | |
| Speed Control Linkage problems |
Vehicle had encountered numerous mechanical and control issues from the outset. Electrical system, fuel pump, accelerator pedal, power steering, windows, and air bag lights.
The event involved my 2000 e320 sedan. I had driven to albuquerque and used my cruise control as usual - it was still on but not engaged. I entered kirtland afb, where I stopped at the guard shack to present my id and then started down wyoming street at 25 mph. Suddenly, the accelerator was drawn down to the floor and the car accelerated like a rocket! I grabbed the wheel with both hand and stood on the brake pedal with both feet, almost stopping before I overtook and hit a pickup truck that had been three blocks ahead of me. No injuries. About $5000 damage to my car from engulfing the huge towbar on the truck (grill, hood, radiator, power steering control, etc. - actually no major damage). Mercedes service people stated that they could find nothing wrong with the car to explain the spontaneous acceleration.
Rpms increase aat 20mph. Driver has to put vehicle into neutral to stop. Dealer has inspected vehicle. Consumer states he was advised by dealership that vehicle is operating as designed,the prolonged stopping distance caused consumer to hit another vehicle, consumer also reports that engine fails to shut down.