NHTSA Service Bulletin 11015616: 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Mercedes-benz Amg C43
Official manufacturer communication context for 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Mercedes-benz Amg C43, with affected products, buyer checks and links into Carchieve recall, problem and VIN research.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA manufacturer communication and service bulletin records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
Complaint Possible humming noises from the drivetrain in the area of the rear axle, especially during tight cornering in the lower speed range. Cause Additives in rear axle differential oil Remedy Note: Please follow the instructions in this document. The replacement of components (other than those named for processing) is not effective. Remedy: A test drive must be performed. For accurate analysis (localization) of the noise, the "Steelman Chassis Ear" noise diagnosis kit can be used, for example. If the rear axle differential is unambiguously identified as the cause (noise source), the oil must be replaced. Observe the following: 1. Warm up the oil in the differential by means of a short test drive. 2. Drain the oil from the differential and fill it with new oil according to the parts list in the attachment. Please follow the procedure described in AR.35.31-P-0523OLC. Note: To ensure that the differential is drained as completely as possible, both rear wheels should be rotated slowly 2-3 turns while draining. Make sure that as little residual oil as possible remains in the differential. 3. Please advise the customer that in isolated cases the problem may continue to occur for another 30 to 60 miles after the oil has been replaced. If the problem is still present after the appropriate mileage: Double check the appropriate mileage was driven. Repeat the flushing and filling procedure a second time, make sure to properly flush all the diff fluid out If no change after the second flush and additional mileage. replace the rear diff
What this bulletin may mean before buying
Treat this as service research, not a verdict on one car. Before you buy, compare this communication with official recall campaigns, model-level owner complaint patterns, and the exact vehicle’s VIN-decoded specifications. A bulletin can help you ask a seller or dealer sharper questions about software updates, known repairs, warranty extensions and service history.
Affected products listed in this communication
Buyer checklist
- Run the 17-character VIN and confirm the year, make, model, engine and equipment match the listing.
- Check recall campaign pages for safety actions that may require dealer repair.
- Compare this bulletin with common problem pages for the same model and component area.
- Ask the seller or dealer whether the bulletin procedure, update or inspection has already been completed.
- Use the used-car buying checklist and get an independent inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What is NHTSA service bulletin 11015616?
Complaint Possible humming noises from the drivetrain in the area of the rear axle, especially during tight cornering in the lower speed range. Cause Additives in rear axle differential oil Remedy Note: Please follow the instructions in this document. The replacement of components (other than those named for processing) is not effective. Remedy: A test drive must be performed. For accurate analysis (localization).
Is a service bulletin the same as a recall?
No. A recall is a safety campaign with a required remedy for affected VINs. A service bulletin or manufacturer communication usually describes diagnostic, repair, software, warranty or service information.
How should a used-car buyer use this bulletin?
Use it as a research signal. Compare it with recalls, owner complaints, service records, a VIN report and an independent inspection before buying.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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