Brand new car, engine cuts out, no brakes, no steering!

My good friend recently took delivery of a brand new Mercedes-Benz saloon car. With just 35 miles on the clock. Going down hill at 60mph and approaching a roundabout the engine, for no apparent reason, cut out! He was left with no brakes other than the hand brake and very heavy steering. The car engine would not restart. Fortunately he survived the experience albeit a bit shaken.

My questions are

- are you aware of a problem with new Mercedes Benz cars behaving in this highly dangerous manner.
- would he be within his rights to insist the manufacturer take the vehicle back and refund him?

Asked on 12 November 2012 by AF

Answered by Honest John
Might have been a fault with the stop start system. Or, it it's a manual, he may have stalled it. Obviously get it back to the supplying dealer to be checked.
Tags: advice
Similar questions
Do MINI Coopers made in 2001 have a cam belt or a cam chain? I am hearing two different things. I've just bought a 2001 MINI Cooper. I took lots of advice before I bought it, and it has a full service...
My daughter's car was hit by another car while parked in the street outside my house. The other driver was apologetic and admitted it was his fault so we exchanged details as my daughter was not in. The...
Is £600 a fair charge to have the air conditioning re-gassed on a three year old Nissan Note? The condenser needed renewing, but the main cost was £300 for the gas.
Related models
Distinctive and sharp looks. Excellent CDI diesels. Good motorway cruiser. Very comfortable and refined. Feels very well built.
 

Ask Honest John

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 10% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ10 to save on an ALA policy

See offer