Daimler recalls 85,000 Mercedes-Benz autos in U.S., citing steering flaws

Daimler AG, the world’s second- largest maker of luxury vehicles, told the U.S. it’s recalling more than 85,000 Mercedes-Benz models over a steering flaw that may make the cars difficult to control.

The voluntary recall affects 2010 C-Class Model 204 and E- Class Model 212, and 2010-11 E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet Model 207, the German carmaker said in a report sent to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“The power steering system in the subject vehicles may fail due to the loss of power steering fluid,” Daimler said in the report, dated Oct. 4. “Owners may not have sufficient control of the vehicle in areas, such as parking, where maximum power steering is required, and could lead to a vehicle crash.”

Daimler spokesmen Joerg Howe, Marc Binder and Florian Martens didn’t respond to telephone calls seeking comment.