T-Roll

My '98 C280 Sport has 206,000 miles on it. About two years ago the dealer told me my A/C compressor had ceased. I've been putting off getting this fixed, but really miss my A/C. The original estimate was $2,400, and he said he could not guarantee the cold air would last for a few years. Gulp.

What do you guys in the know recommend in this case? Is the estimate reasonable? Can I trust a private shop to do this work professionally enough?

Thanks-
T-Roll

xvvvz

I had it done at a good indie MB specialist for $1500-ish two years ago this coming June. The dealer quote is about average for a dealer. These prices all assume they don't have to replace a bunch of other stuff. Since you have waited so long, chances are higher you will need more done. This price included the rebuilt compressor, a new drier and a good long vacuum of the system to remove shrapnel. The latter is where many shops try to cut costs and time. That can mean sharpnel is still floating around and will soon destroy your rebuilt compressor.

benz rider

had a new compressor, dryer and main suction hose put in mine after it died on 105degree day here in Texas. spent $1,300 for everything with my indie shop and I'm back to cooling out in 5o'clock traffic.

Compressor- $700
Dryer - $30
Main suction hose - $130
Labor - $350(I think)
Freon - $19

off the top of my head.

benz rider

that estimate is way too high. and for that price, he BETTER guarantee snowball fights at high noon in gridlock traffic. you should get a second quote from another shop. sounds like your mechanic is warming up the coals to rake your *** over.

and yes, Indie shops are the way to go, BUT do your homework. ask others who've used them and get references and reviews if you can. it helps if the mechanic is german....... I wouldn't trust Ol' Leroy and his buddy Bubba to work on it. Just because they have a Mercedes shop don't mean they know Mercedes.

are you a benz rider?... I am.