carsandcapp

Hi All,

Looking through the threads here trying to get a handle on what is the best "bang for the buck" angle on the 40k service for a 2012 Bluetec.

I have been quoted between $1300 and $1700 for the 40k service INCLUSIVE of the tranny fluid replacement. However, when I look down the list of other services done at the 40k, most of them seem pretty doable by myself. I have a topside oil changer and the correct Motul oil on hand. DEF fluid refill, no problem. Tire rotation, already handled. So...am I nuts to think that maybe I should JUST get a tranny flush at the dealer ($450-ish) and do the rest of the stuff myself? The one item that gives me pause is the fuel filter. Though I found this write up below and it makes me think I can do it.

https://mbworld.org/forums/m-class-w...e-warning.html

I have changed the plugs in BMW E60, brakes on a Porsche 911, so I am sort of handy.

I mean, hell, am going to be out of warranty in 4 months or so anyway (I drive 2500 miles a month) and there have not been any disconcerting moans/groans/creeks/cracks in the car to date.

Thoughts, ideas, scary stories?

Thanks as always.

75gasgas

Hi there,

I just went through this with my 2011 E550 4matic.

I only had the dealer do the transmision service and the brake fluid flush. It was $600 out the door. I thought they were pretty cool about me doing some of it myself too.

All the remaining things I did myself.

Arrie

This service I think includes engine oil and filter, cabin air filter, engine air filter, transmission fluid flush, brake fluid flush and wiper blade together with the overall check up.

It is a major service but if you feel confident doing it please do. I myself would let the dealer to do the tranny and brakes at least. Engine air filter should not be a big job but the cabin air kind of is. Up to you.

Engine oil thru the dip stick tube is not enough to call a job.

drsaab

Ask what the prepaid costs. I got a 3 pk for the diesel for 1269 ad no tax, that would cover the 40 50 and 60k miles. It has gone up a bit in price since then. Probably closer to 1400 now is my guess.

listerone

Particularly with the assumption that the vehicle is no longer under warranty I'd say brakes,transmission and fuel filter done by the dealer.

carsandcapp

Update: Dealer did the tranny and brakes...~$700 out the door. I handled the rest. Even did the service indicator reset myself. And FWIW, this is the best thread I can find on the fuel and air filter DIY. Actually written for an ML 350, but it is the same motor - more or less.

https://mbworld.org/forums/m-class-w...ml#post6241658

hai00

I am in a similar situation. 2011 e350 bluetec with 38k. A reputable Indep shop in bay area has been servicing my E350. They did a decent job for my e350. The same shop does excellent job for all other cars in my extended family.

For big 40k service, I wanted dealer to do the tranny oil, etc... Dealer price for each service is insane for bluetec. Fuel filter is $150 for dealer retail part alone. There were 3 different fuel filters for my model in MB dealer system. My indep shop had a run-about with wrong fuel filter from MB dealer for 20k service.

I found a place on this forum to buy 3p package (40k, 50k, 60k) for a bit more than 1600. Had my car 40k serviced at MB dealer. Experience was wonderful. got a loaner C class too(very rough suspension tune). I am very happy with 3p service for that price. No need to worry about getting right parts, and itemizing service. I think the 3p cost is well worth, and is a sizable saving compare to dealer price.

If you try to get a quote, make sure you describe your bluetec. That is because the package for bluetec cost more.

Trancebolt

My bluetec is 2012. I have read these types of threads before and have a few comments. There are videos displaying the changing of fluids for the tranny and torque converter. WE have the 7gtronic (plus) tranny that most all mbz after 9 have. They are all the same and have the same procedures to DIY


Now, in my opinion... the 40k service is important as all hell. All the filters, and fluids they change seem trivial but they are the lifeblood of the car. Tranny service is now pushed to 70k!!! for 2012 and up models.. ( I was told, so essentially no tranny svc for 40-70k.. Recommended is 30 for ANY car buff... ) So, they wont do it for the total service price for me any longer... However,


Valencia MBZ quoted me 550-600 for the svc b (80~ more for adblue), and another 550 if I wanted a tranny flush done too. If you break down all the costs of the fluids, the filters and the gaskets for tranny svc... Your at about 400 dollars minimum. The type of issues youll incur doing tranny service at home is way outweighing the few hundred dollars. SO unless your super cheap or have not the cash, take it to the dealer...


They put off a lot of services until 40k, I mean brake fluid maybe only once before is changed... I can FEEL my trannny needs the flush so im paying for the extra.


Call around gents. One dealer told me 1000 for just the svc no tranny flush. This dealer in Valencia told me 550 for B, and flush anytime for a nickel. So honestly, call around and find an intelligent sounding service department =D And save the DIY For simple things like the air and cabin filters, bla bla.

drsaab

At mb alexandira va its 530 for B service for gas and about 580 for diesel with tax. Tranny Flush is extra.

The tranny flush every 40k miles is covered in prepaid maint for the 2011 models.

El Cid

It's an MB so the dealer does all my servicing.