Mercedes under investigation by feds over faulty, possibly flaming taillights

According to The Detroit News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans over the possibility of faulty taillamps that, in some situations, may even catch fire. Some 218,000 C-Class vehicles are being investigated, all of which are from the 2008 and 2009 model years.

NHTSA has reportedly received 21 statements from owners citing the brake lights or turn signals dimming or failing to light. In some cases, drivers reported a burning smell, a few noting that some of the vehicle's electrical parts had melted. What's even more alarming is that some drivers reported smelling smoke or seeing burn marks in the trunk. One driver even reportedly saw small flames coming from the rear lamp connector when the trunk was open.

Scary stuff, to be sure, though NHTSA says that this problem hasn't caused any injuries. Still, the government agency will investigate the problem further to see if this actually warrants a recall.