Mercedes-AMG faces lawsuit over heated seat emblem burns

Mercedes-AMG drivers have filed a class action lawsuit in a California federal court, alleging that metal AMG logos embedded in vehicle seats cause skin burns. The plaintiffs, Gabriel Lahijani and Karendeep Karina Bath, claim the protruding metal emblems heat up excessively when exposed to sunlight.

Lahijani, who was driving a 2026 Mercedes-AMG E-Class, reported sustaining first- and second-degree burns on his back after sitting in the vehicle while wearing a sleeveless shirt. A dermatologist reportedly documented the injury, noting the burn mark matched the shape of the AMG logo. Bath reported a similar incident where contact with the heated emblem left a visible mark on her shoulder.

The lawsuit alleges a design defect, arguing that the placement of the logos allows them to come into direct contact with a driver’s neck, shoulders, or back. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain, suffering, and emotional distress. They are also requesting that Mercedes cover the costs for other owners to have the metal logos removed from their vehicles. Mercedes-Benz has not yet commented on the litigation.