Mercedes drops brake-by-wire system
- 100,000 cars recalled in UK alone
- Two million cars recalled worldwide
- E-Class and CLS-Class models affected
Mercedes is dropping its high-tech brake-by-wire system from its E-Class and CLS ranges next year.
Also used on the SL convertible, CL coupe and SLR supercar, Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) was introduced by Mercedes with the promise of enhanced braking performance.
The manufacturer has been plagued by faults with the electronic system, however, recalling more than 100,000 cars in the UK alone for checks and fixes. Worldwide, some two million Mercedes have been recalled because of SBC.
A Mercedes source said: 'SBC is as good as our other braking systems, and sometimes better, but we cannot get the doubts out of customers' heads.'
From the middle of next year, E- and CLS-Class models will no longer be fitted with the system. Other models will continue to use it, because it would be too expensive to re-engineer them to leave the only the hydraulic system in place.
All Mercedes which use SBC are also fitted with a conventional hydraulic back-up system in case the electronics fail.
Electronics can do away with mechanical connections in a number of control systems including brakes, throttle and steering. They have been developed by manufacturers for a number of reasons including weight reduction, which can help models meet ever-tougher exhaust emissions requirements.
Both Mercedes and BMW have told whatcar.com that the growing amount of electronics in modern-day cars is their single biggest reliability headache.
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