Fire risk detected on MAN TGS and TGX models: KBA issues service advisory 14254R
In a significant development, the German truck manufacturer MAN is facing a mandatory recall of over 120,000 trucks due to a potential fire hazard. The recall, initiated by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) with reference number 14254R, was announced in October 2024.
The issue at hand revolves around the D26 engine found in various MAN TGS and TGX series trucks, built between November 2016 and August 2019. The problem appears to stem from faulty unleaded piston rod bearings, which can lead to oil loss and subsequent engine damage. This oil contamination has been linked to fires that have occurred on highways, in tunnels, and immediately after starting.
MAN refuses to comment on "specific damage incidents" but states that if the prescribed oil changes and maintenance intervals are observed, they do not see an excessive accumulation of engine and potential subsequent damage. However, ignoring the recall risks the immobilization of the vehicle by the registration authority.
The cause of the fires has been a topic of investigation, with numerous incidents reported across Europe since 2016. One such incident occurred on November 25, 2024, when a MAN TGS 33.420 (built in 2018) with 150,000 kilometers on the clock caught fire on a federal road near the German-Polish border. The vehicle, which had participated in a recall action on February 23, 2024, could not participate in the second recall due to it having burned down.
The law firm Dr. Stoll & Sauer Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, one of the leading law firms in consumer law with expertise in banking and capital market law, as well as the dieselgate scandal, is spearheading the legal battle against MAN. Partners Dr. Ralf Stoll and Ralph Sauer are currently leading the model case against the Mercedes-Benz Group AG, having previously negotiated an 830 million euro settlement for 260,000 consumers in a similar case against Volkswagen AG.
Dr. Stoll & Sauer specializes in product liability and traffic law and offers a free online check for affected truck owners to determine if claims exist against MAN or the respective dealer. The legal assessment of the 14254R complaint by the law firm Dr. Stoll & Sauer was conducted by the responsible legal institution or person assigned by that firm, and there is a parallel lawsuit involving MAN.
In addition to their work with MAN, lawyers from Dr. Stoll & Sauer are also leading the class action against the Meta corporation. In the JUVE Handbook 2019/2020, the firm is mentioned as market-shaping for its competence in managing mass proceedings.
As the recall progresses, affected truck owners are advised to stay vigilant and follow the instructions provided by MAN and the KBA to ensure the safety of their vehicles and the road.
