Yes, Mercedes-Benz does offer warranty coverage for manufacturing defects, which would include issues with the W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel. However, whether or not the steering wheel is covered depends on the specifics of the issue and the terms of the warranty. Here's an outline of what to expect:
1. Standard Mercedes-Benz Warranty:
- New Vehicle Limited Warranty: Mercedes-Benz typically offers a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty for new vehicles, which includes coverage for manufacturing defects or material defects.
- Covered Issues: If the steering wheel has issues due to poor craftsmanship, manufacturing errors, or defects in materials (such as the leather, Alcantara, stitching, or electrical components), it would generally be covered by this warranty.
- Repairs and Replacements: If a manufacturing defect is found, the steering wheel will be either repaired or replaced at no cost to the owner.
- Exclusions: This warranty does not cover damage resulting from accidents, misuse, wear and tear, or modifications made to the vehicle.
2. AMG-Specific Coverage:
- AMG Warranty: The AMG Performance models, such as those equipped with the W465 AMG steering wheel, typically have the same coverage as other Mercedes-Benz vehicles, but AMG models may have additional services for performance-related parts.
- The steering wheel and other performance components (like paddle shifters or bespoke trims) may be covered under the same warranty terms, provided the issue arises from manufacturing defects.
3. Extended Warranty Options:
- Mercedes-Benz Extended Warranty: For added peace of mind, Mercedes-Benz offers extended warranty plans that can be purchased, which can cover the vehicle for up to 7 years/100,000 miles.
- This would also extend coverage for steering wheel defects if purchased.
4. What Is Not Covered?
While manufacturing defects are covered, the warranty does not cover:
- Damage from misuse: If the steering wheel is damaged due to improper handling, extreme weather, or accidents, it will not be covered.
- Wear and Tear: Over time, natural wear and tear (like the fading of leather or minor surface scratches) is generally not covered.
- Customization and Aftermarket Modifications: If the steering wheel is customized or modified with non-OEM parts, defects resulting from these changes are not covered.
5. Claim Process:
- To make a warranty claim, you would need to take the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership.
- The dealership would inspect the steering wheel to confirm if the defect falls within the warranty criteria.
- If the issue is covered, the dealership would either repair or replace the part at no cost to you.
6. Labor Costs:
If the repair or replacement is covered by the warranty, labor costs are typically included. If the issue isn't covered by the warranty (e.g., if it's caused by wear and tear), then you'll likely be responsible for both parts and labor.
Summary:
If your W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel has a manufacturing defect, it should be covered under the 4-year/50,000-mile warranty that comes with the vehicle, as long as the defect is not due to external factors like wear and tear or an accident. Always check with your Mercedes-Benz dealership for specific details about warranty coverage and the exact terms that apply to your vehicle.