The Tamil Nadu State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has dismissed a complaint against Mercedes-Benz India and one of its dealers, rejecting claims of a manufacturing defect when airbags did not deploy in a luxury vehicle after a crash.
The Commission found that the complainant failed to prove any fault in the car and accepted the manufacturer’s explanation that the incident was an “under-ride” collision, where a smaller vehicle partially goes under a larger one, preventing the airbag sensors from activating due to the height difference between vehicles.
The vehicle involved, a Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI, was bought in July 2014 for around Rs 46 lakh. The complaint stated the accident occurred the day after purchase, when the car hit the rear of a container truck that had suddenly braked.
The crash caused extensive damage to the front of the vehicle, which was declared a total loss by the insurer.
The complainant argued that the airbags should have deployed considering the impact’s severity, suggesting a manufacturing defect or incorrect installation. He requested Rs 75 lakh in compensation for financial and emotional distress.
Mercedes-Benz India and its dealer countered with a technical inspection report, stating that the airbags did not inflate because the necessary conditions were not met.
They explained that in an under-ride collision, the force is absorbed by the upper, less rigid areas of the car’s front, rather than the parts designed to trigger airbags.
Thus, the deceleration levels required for deployment were not reached, indicating the system functioned as designed.
The Commission also noted the absence of independent expert testimony or scientific analysis disputing the manufacturer’s conclusions.
First Published on April 1, 2026, 15:55:07 IST
