Mercedes AMG seat logo burns drivers: Class action lawsuit filed
Metal badges on AMG models leave burn marks on drivers' backs, lawsuit claims.
1Core allegation of the lawsuit
Two drivers, Gabriel Lahijani and Karendeep Bath, allege that the metal AMG badges on Mercedes seats overheat, causing second-degree burns. Lahijani, a Los Angeles resident, documented 'AMG' branded burns on his back after contact with the logo while wearing a tank top on May 31. Bath claims the badge left thermal burn marks on her shoulder after entering her parked AMG vehicle in similar conditions.
2Design defect claims
Court documents state the raised metal badges are 'reasonably expected to contact an occupant's upper back, neck or shoulder.' Plaintiffs argue this constitutes a design flaw and demand Mercedes cover medical expenses. They also seek compensation for removal of badges from all affected vehicles. The automaker has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.
3Legal demands and process
Filed this week in California's Western District Court, the suit seeks damages for physical pain, emotional distress and medical costs. This follows Mercedes' $149.6 million settlement in December 2023 over emission cheating software. Between 2008-2016, the company installed defeat devices in 211,000 diesel vehicles to manipulate emission tests, a scandal that damaged its reputation.
4Documented injuries
A board-certified dermatologist confirmed Lahijani's second-degree burns, describing them as 'AMG inscribed.' Bath reported immediate burning sensation when her shoulder touched the badge, with the logo's shape later darkening on her skin. Medical experts confirmed both injuries as consistent with thermal contact burns from heated metal surfaces.
5Affected models
Complaints primarily target 2026 Mercedes-AMG E-Class vehicles leased from authorized dealers. Plaintiffs suggest similar risks exist across AMG models with identical badge placement. They allege the metal logos overheat in sunlight, causing burns through thin clothing. The case highlights potential safety issues with decorative metal elements in vehicle interiors, especially in warm climates.
6Manufacturer's past violations
The lawsuit comes months after Mercedes' $149.6 million emission scandal settlement. Investigators found the company installed software in 211,000 diesel vehicles (2008-2016) that activated full emission controls only during testing. This new case raises fresh concerns about the automaker's product safety protocols, particularly regarding interior design choices that may compromise passenger wellbeing.
7Consumer protection angle
Plaintiff attorneys emphasize automakers must prioritize user safety over aesthetic design. They argue AMG badges pose particular risks in hot climates and warn similar cases could emerge against other luxury brands. Industry experts call for standardized thermal insulation requirements for interior metal surfaces, suggesting current regulations may be inadequate to prevent such injuries.
8Industry-wide implications
This case reignites debates about automotive design safety standards. Critics question whether luxury vehicles prioritize aesthetics over user safety, especially regarding metal surfaces that can overheat. The outcome may influence broader industry practices, potentially leading to new regulations for interior materials in extreme temperatures. Experts suggest the verdict could shift design priorities toward functional safety in premium vehicles.