190e suspension questions
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1
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From: San Francisco
1993 190e 2.6
190e suspension questions
Hello All,
I am new to this forum though I have been a life long MBZ enthusiast beginning with my family's 560sel in the '80s.
I have had a 1993 190e 2.6 for the last 7 years and I love it. At about 130k miles it has started making a savage knocking sound somewhere in the front left suspension when I drive over a bump or pothole in the road (San Francisco has lots of potholes). I've found this happens most noticeably when the suspension travels quickly rather than at slowest speeds or on the smoother freeways.
I thought the problem might be old or worn bushings or ball joints in the control arm. I can visibly see that the strut mount on the left front strut is broken and very obviously needs to be replaced. I am wondering if it is necessary to change the struts as well and any of the control arm assembly at a certain mileage or wearing point. Any suggestions?
I dont want to spend money unnecessarily and I will pass on the new struts unless any of you believe that a 190e needs a new set of struts at 130k miles. I don't own a lift but I do have an honest mechanic. The parts are cheap but the labor is expensive. Please advise
Thanks -- Dumptruck82
I am new to this forum though I have been a life long MBZ enthusiast beginning with my family's 560sel in the '80s.
I have had a 1993 190e 2.6 for the last 7 years and I love it. At about 130k miles it has started making a savage knocking sound somewhere in the front left suspension when I drive over a bump or pothole in the road (San Francisco has lots of potholes). I've found this happens most noticeably when the suspension travels quickly rather than at slowest speeds or on the smoother freeways.
I thought the problem might be old or worn bushings or ball joints in the control arm. I can visibly see that the strut mount on the left front strut is broken and very obviously needs to be replaced. I am wondering if it is necessary to change the struts as well and any of the control arm assembly at a certain mileage or wearing point. Any suggestions?
I dont want to spend money unnecessarily and I will pass on the new struts unless any of you believe that a 190e needs a new set of struts at 130k miles. I don't own a lift but I do have an honest mechanic. The parts are cheap but the labor is expensive. Please advise
Thanks -- Dumptruck82
Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 169
Likes: 2
300TE, 300CE
strut mount first
Replace the strut mount first. The strut needs to come off to do that, so the mechanic can check it's condition then. He can also examine the ball joints and control arm bushings.
If my car, I would replace both strut mounts.
If my car, I would replace both strut mounts.
