Press Release
Possible alternator damage under hard operating conditions
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC will conduct a voluntary recall campaign on certain model year 2005 - 2006 SLR McLaren vehicles with regard to the alternator.
The company has determined that under hard operating conditions, the engine compartment temperatures can increase to a level which exceeds the design parameters for the alternator and creates the potential for an engine compartment fire. A damaged alternator cannot assure sufficient voltage to supply the vehicle electrical system. If this condition occurs, the driver will first be informed of alternator damage by the instrument cluster multifunction displays indicating the shut down of some vehicle comfort features such as A/C, radio, etc. If voltage drops further, the multifunction display will indicate "Battery/Alternator Stop Vehicle." In that case the driver should shut off the vehicle and contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer and have the vehicle towed in for repair. The dealer will improve engine compartment cooling, install a modified control unit and a new alternator.
