US safety officials probe Mercedes fuel leaks

DETROIT (AP) — Federal safety regulators are investigating reports of fuel leaks in about 250,000 Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Mercedes have received 533 complaints from owners about a strong odor of gasoline, mainly after refueling. The agency says fuel may be leaking from the upper part of the gas tank.

No fires or injuries have been reported.

The investigation affects vehicles from the 2003 to 2008 model years. The agency is looking into whether the leaks were caused by a 2008 pollution control recall.

The problem surfaced last year with complaints about 2003 to 2006 E55 AMG cars.

On Friday the safety agency expanded the probe to other E-Class vehicles. Investigators will determine if a recall is needed. E-Class cars start around $51,000.

Mercedes said it's cooperating with NHTSA in the probe. Anyone who smells gasoline in their car should contact a dealer, the company said.