Johnand's 2007 C230 thread
11-07-2009, 09:05 PM
#151
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2007 C230SS; 2014 ML350 BT
So, I have been laid up with an arm injury for the last month, so I haven't driven the car much lately or been able to work on it. I also haven't updated my thread in a long time, so I thought I would.
I was feeling a little better today, so I finally got around to doing a brake fluid flush which was about 6 months overdue. There a few good DIY posts, so I didn't bother with one. Just some notes: I used the Motive Black Series Euro Power Bleeder, which is really nice. I have used the regular Motive on several cars in the past with great results. The Black Series is a step up with the swiveling anodized aluminum cap. Pic:
Used an entire liter of Genuine MB brake fluid. No sense using any less, as once you open it, you use it or toss it. Tip on the Motive and filling the master cylinder reservoir to the correct level. Once your on the last caliper, keep the bleeder on the caliper open, and tip the Motive bleeder so the pickup is not in the fluid, and continue to flush until the reservoir is the right level, then tighten caliper bleeder, and release pressure. No need to siphon off fluid from the reservoir as some do with the Motive bleeder.
On another note, I am right at 58K miles, and still have quite a bit left of the original pads in front. Think I should be able to go around 80K miles!!!!! Ahh, the benefits of mostly highway driving. Here's a pic of the pads:
Click on the image for a full res one to see it better.
Now I just need to get it cleaned and protected for the winter.
I was feeling a little better today, so I finally got around to doing a brake fluid flush which was about 6 months overdue. There a few good DIY posts, so I didn't bother with one. Just some notes: I used the Motive Black Series Euro Power Bleeder, which is really nice. I have used the regular Motive on several cars in the past with great results. The Black Series is a step up with the swiveling anodized aluminum cap. Pic:
Used an entire liter of Genuine MB brake fluid. No sense using any less, as once you open it, you use it or toss it. Tip on the Motive and filling the master cylinder reservoir to the correct level. Once your on the last caliper, keep the bleeder on the caliper open, and tip the Motive bleeder so the pickup is not in the fluid, and continue to flush until the reservoir is the right level, then tighten caliper bleeder, and release pressure. No need to siphon off fluid from the reservoir as some do with the Motive bleeder.
On another note, I am right at 58K miles, and still have quite a bit left of the original pads in front. Think I should be able to go around 80K miles!!!!! Ahh, the benefits of mostly highway driving. Here's a pic of the pads:
Click on the image for a full res one to see it better.
Now I just need to get it cleaned and protected for the winter.
11-19-2009, 08:23 AM
#154
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If you were on Facebook, you could read the whole dilema. But basically, I injured my arm working on home remodel projects, and have little use of my right arm due to some nerve impaction. Yes, I have medical insurance, but it doesn't pay it all, so it takes a chunk out of mod money 
No kidding. I see so many here replacing every ~20-30K.
11-19-2009, 09:32 AM
#155
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Yep - my front pads were shot at 45,000 Kms!
John - sorry to hear about your mishap!
John - sorry to hear about your mishap!
11-19-2009, 03:44 PM
#156
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I should have noted that my new front pads @ 53,000 were due to the original rotors being shot. Pads had about 20% left but I had to replace the rotors so the pads were tossed too.
12-22-2009, 11:54 AM
#157
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60K Mile Review
Inspired from Matt's post here is my 60K mile review:
1st a pic (Sorry for the blurry pic, best I could do w/o a tripod.):
1st thing you will notice in the pic, is the CEL on. I have a bad cam position sensor. The new one is waiting to go in later this week.
Total costs for 33 months of ownership:
Maintenance total: $1042.73
Total - $10159.71
Had several problems fixed under warranty, but the cam sensor is the 1st repair I have had to make out of pocket. $116 for a new cam sensor should fix it.
After 60K miles, I still have to say, I really do like my car, and plan to keep it for a long time. If you are following this thread, you will notice, I am still on the original brakes front and rear!
Only mods done to date are programming changes by Sunil. I have a few mods planned for next year. 1st one will be the Euro impact strips I got from Eurodyne. 2nd will be 10-12mm rear and 15mm front spacers for the OEM wheels. Then will be Command 2.5 retrofit.
I have 5 days off over Christmas, and will do the cam sensor, Service A, Fuel filter change, and full detail.
1st a pic (Sorry for the blurry pic, best I could do w/o a tripod.):
1st thing you will notice in the pic, is the CEL on. I have a bad cam position sensor. The new one is waiting to go in later this week.
Total costs for 33 months of ownership:
- Fuel - 2670.57 gallons - $7606.89 (22.39MPG Lifetime, 24.90MPG Premium, and 19.64MPG E85)
- 6 oil changes - $480.66
- 6 tires - $1218.96
- 2 windshields - $500
- 4 cabin air filters - $82.56
- 1 alignment - $125.00
- 1 transmission service - $303.11
- 1 brake fluid flush - $11.40
Maintenance total: $1042.73
Total - $10159.71
Had several problems fixed under warranty, but the cam sensor is the 1st repair I have had to make out of pocket. $116 for a new cam sensor should fix it.
After 60K miles, I still have to say, I really do like my car, and plan to keep it for a long time. If you are following this thread, you will notice, I am still on the original brakes front and rear!
Only mods done to date are programming changes by Sunil. I have a few mods planned for next year. 1st one will be the Euro impact strips I got from Eurodyne. 2nd will be 10-12mm rear and 15mm front spacers for the OEM wheels. Then will be Command 2.5 retrofit.
I have 5 days off over Christmas, and will do the cam sensor, Service A, Fuel filter change, and full detail.
Last edited by johnand; 12-23-2009 at 10:26 AM.
12-22-2009, 04:13 PM
#158
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You're more **** than I am about record keeping. You're doing oil changes every 8500? Isn't that overkill for the fleece filter, 8.5q synthetic V6 cars? I know that Glyn stays on us M271 owners (who are stuck with paper filters) to run 8000 max. Like a step-child, I refuse. I was assured it was fine by dealerships, although I am aware they are idiots. Still, I'm willing to risk it. I figure if it has an effect at all it will be long after the other parts of the car have bit the dust. My car is at 70,000 and has had 6 oil changes total. The first owner ran out of time before they ran out of miles on the first two services. I've done 4 since buying it.
I like to see this type of post, which is why I did my own. I think it gives people a realistic glimpse into ownership. I've had no out-of-warranty issues except the transmission mount, which is a recent thing that is not an emergency.
I do notice you are paying more than I do for services. My alignment was $56.00, the cabin air filter was $12 (Bosch), I've bought 8 tires for $1195.. My oil changes cost $75 each (including 6 quarts Mobil 1 0W-40 and a filter, plus $20 for the labor).
I'm getting my transmission service done soon. My indy is charging $50 labor, I buy parts.
Keep us updated on how you like your car as it gets older. You keep closing in on me mileage wise!
I like to see this type of post, which is why I did my own. I think it gives people a realistic glimpse into ownership. I've had no out-of-warranty issues except the transmission mount, which is a recent thing that is not an emergency.
I do notice you are paying more than I do for services. My alignment was $56.00, the cabin air filter was $12 (Bosch), I've bought 8 tires for $1195.. My oil changes cost $75 each (including 6 quarts Mobil 1 0W-40 and a filter, plus $20 for the labor).
I'm getting my transmission service done soon. My indy is charging $50 labor, I buy parts.
Keep us updated on how you like your car as it gets older. You keep closing in on me mileage wise!
12-22-2009, 11:25 PM
#159
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Appreciate your insightful updates as always, johnand.
A few observations and some throwaway commentary..
• 37 degrees at 5:46 -
You’re an early riser (too) and it’s unseasonably mild. Almost that cold in our neighborhood of late.
• 23.5 mpg -
The M272 is peppy and efficient.
• That $11.40 DOT 4+ brake fluid flush must have been a DIY.
• 1.7 cents per mile for maintenance -
Although that doesn’t include its upcoming minor service, that’s an excellent figure.
Reinforces the importance of a warranty (prepaid defect repairs) with these cars.
• $308 for 1820 miles a month...excluding the cost of the car, other operating fees and insurance...is actually quite reasonable.
• Original brakes -
Must be mostly highway miles with few spirited outings. Still piloting the SE-R?
At the behest of the IRS, I’m compelled to retain accurate records as well.
Upside is $1000 spent running it (partially) for business doesn’t actually ‘cost’ that much.
Hot rod parts’ receipts are kept in a separate file; never to be shared with the Mrs. or, unfortunately, deducted.
Interested to see its stance – and hear your feedback – after fitting the spacers.
Did the rack and pinion replacement eliminate the play/clunk in its steering?
Pleased you’re keeping yours a while longer.
Trust you’ll enjoy some quality garage time during the Christmas break keeping it in tip-top shape.
A few observations and some throwaway commentary..
• 37 degrees at 5:46 -
You’re an early riser (too) and it’s unseasonably mild. Almost that cold in our neighborhood of late.
• 23.5 mpg -
The M272 is peppy and efficient.
• That $11.40 DOT 4+ brake fluid flush must have been a DIY.
• 1.7 cents per mile for maintenance -
Although that doesn’t include its upcoming minor service, that’s an excellent figure.
Reinforces the importance of a warranty (prepaid defect repairs) with these cars.
• $308 for 1820 miles a month...excluding the cost of the car, other operating fees and insurance...is actually quite reasonable.
• Original brakes -
Must be mostly highway miles with few spirited outings. Still piloting the SE-R?
At the behest of the IRS, I’m compelled to retain accurate records as well.
Upside is $1000 spent running it (partially) for business doesn’t actually ‘cost’ that much.
Hot rod parts’ receipts are kept in a separate file; never to be shared with the Mrs. or, unfortunately, deducted.
Interested to see its stance – and hear your feedback – after fitting the spacers.
Did the rack and pinion replacement eliminate the play/clunk in its steering?
Pleased you’re keeping yours a while longer.
Trust you’ll enjoy some quality garage time during the Christmas break keeping it in tip-top shape.
12-23-2009, 09:49 AM
#161
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You're more **** than I am about record keeping. You're doing oil changes every 8500? Isn't that overkill for the fleece filter, 8.5q synthetic V6 cars? I know that Glyn stays on us M271 owners (who are stuck with paper filters) to run 8000 max. Like a step-child, I refuse. I was assured it was fine by dealerships, although I am aware they are idiots. Still, I'm willing to risk it. I figure if it has an effect at all it will be long after the other parts of the car have bit the dust. My car is at 70,000 and has had 6 oil changes total. The first owner ran out of time before they ran out of miles on the first two services. I've done 4 since buying it.
I like to see this type of post, which is why I did my own. I think it gives people a realistic glimpse into ownership. I've had no out-of-warranty issues except the transmission mount, which is a recent thing that is not an emergency.
I do notice you are paying more than I do for services. My alignment was $56.00, the cabin air filter was $12 (Bosch), I've bought 8 tires for $1195.. My oil changes cost $75 each (including 6 quarts Mobil 1 0W-40 and a filter, plus $20 for the labor).
I'm getting my transmission service done soon. My indy is charging $50 labor, I buy parts.
Keep us updated on how you like your car as it gets older. You keep closing in on me mileage wise!
I like to see this type of post, which is why I did my own. I think it gives people a realistic glimpse into ownership. I've had no out-of-warranty issues except the transmission mount, which is a recent thing that is not an emergency.
I do notice you are paying more than I do for services. My alignment was $56.00, the cabin air filter was $12 (Bosch), I've bought 8 tires for $1195.. My oil changes cost $75 each (including 6 quarts Mobil 1 0W-40 and a filter, plus $20 for the labor).
I'm getting my transmission service done soon. My indy is charging $50 labor, I buy parts.
Keep us updated on how you like your car as it gets older. You keep closing in on me mileage wise!
I have done 6 oil changes, not 7, but my doing my service A later this week will be 7. I changed the oil at 5800 miles and 13K, as the oil analysis showed a good amount of wear particles. Then changed every 10K. I don't see a problem with 13K, but since I run E85 quite a bit, and oil analysis shows the oil being fairly depleted of additives at 10K, that is what I do. Those oil analysis test were done when the engine was still breaking in, so it will probably be better now. Before this service A, I will send a sample out for analysis.
As far as service costs, those numbers may be off, I am double checking. But, Mobil 1 0W-40 is around $6.49-$6.99/quart around here, and I get 9 quarts for each change. Used to get filters at the dealer for $23, but now get them for $11.83 from RM European. Also, the cabin filter I get is the activated charcoal type, which is almost double the price of the standard Bosch dust filter.
Just double checked my trans service, and it was $303.11 (Damn, I must have been doing some of my records input while drunk
) That was $135 labor, $34.20 filter, $15.19 gasket, $4.86 for bolts, $1.35 for stand-off, and $112.50 for fluid. Remember the 7G is much more involved service than your 5 speed. I had the alignment done at the dealer while in for warranty work, that is why it was so expensive. All future alignments will be free, as I will be doing them.
12-23-2009, 10:03 AM
#163
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Appreciate your insightful updates as always, johnand.
A few observations and some throwaway commentary..
• 37 degrees at 5:46 -
You’re an early riser (too) and it’s unseasonably mild. Almost that cold in our neighborhood of late.
• 23.5 mpg -
The M272 is peppy and efficient.
• That $11.40 DOT 4+ brake fluid flush must have been a DIY.
• 1.7 cents per mile for maintenance -
Although that doesn’t include its upcoming minor service, that’s an excellent figure.
Reinforces the importance of a warranty (prepaid defect repairs) with these cars.
• $308 for 1820 miles a month...excluding the cost of the car, other operating fees and insurance...is actually quite reasonable.
• Original brakes -
Must be mostly highway miles with few spirited outings. Still piloting the SE-R?
At the behest of the IRS, I’m compelled to retain accurate records as well.
Upside is $1000 spent running it (partially) for business doesn’t actually ‘cost’ that much.
Hot rod parts’ receipts are kept in a separate file; never to be shared with the Mrs. or, unfortunately, deducted.
Interested to see its stance – and hear your feedback – after fitting the spacers.
Did the rack and pinion replacement eliminate the play/clunk in its steering?
Pleased you’re keeping yours a while longer.
Trust you’ll enjoy some quality garage time during the Christmas break keeping it in tip-top shape.
A few observations and some throwaway commentary..
• 37 degrees at 5:46 -
You’re an early riser (too) and it’s unseasonably mild. Almost that cold in our neighborhood of late.
• 23.5 mpg -
The M272 is peppy and efficient.
• That $11.40 DOT 4+ brake fluid flush must have been a DIY.
• 1.7 cents per mile for maintenance -
Although that doesn’t include its upcoming minor service, that’s an excellent figure.
Reinforces the importance of a warranty (prepaid defect repairs) with these cars.
• $308 for 1820 miles a month...excluding the cost of the car, other operating fees and insurance...is actually quite reasonable.
• Original brakes -
Must be mostly highway miles with few spirited outings. Still piloting the SE-R?
At the behest of the IRS, I’m compelled to retain accurate records as well.
Upside is $1000 spent running it (partially) for business doesn’t actually ‘cost’ that much.
Hot rod parts’ receipts are kept in a separate file; never to be shared with the Mrs. or, unfortunately, deducted.
Interested to see its stance – and hear your feedback – after fitting the spacers.
Did the rack and pinion replacement eliminate the play/clunk in its steering?
Pleased you’re keeping yours a while longer.
Trust you’ll enjoy some quality garage time during the Christmas break keeping it in tip-top shape.
The M272 is peppy and fairly efficient. I was hoping for a little better mileage out of it, but it is by no means bad. That calculation for mileage is a little skewed, as I run a mix of premium and E85. My current lifetime mileage for premium is 24.9mpg, and 19.64mpg for E85. That is typically 80% highway and 20% town. Yes, I drive 80-90% highway, and very spirited drives any chance I get. Plus, all my driving is done with a very HEAVY foot, but it seems the little 2.5L M272 is more efficient when revved more freely. Also, I do a large elevation change on my daily commute, as it is by no means flat here. The 7G's, normal manners seem to help keep brake wear to a minimum.
Yes, the brake fluid flush was 1 liter of MB fluid and DIY!
I haven't driven the SE-R in a while, but I have an engine I am completely building up for a turbo setup. I am building the SR20DE(T) engine for ~350HP of turbo charged goodness
Will keep you updated on the spacers. Yes, the rack replacement fixed the clunk/pop in the front end, and really tightened steering response. I suspect my swaybar endlinks may need replacement, as I get a kind of groaning sound while turning with the suspension flexed in opposite directions while turning out of my driveway.
Last edited by johnand; 12-23-2009 at 10:15 AM.
12-23-2009, 10:06 AM
#165
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Yes, 4 rears, and 2 fronts. After some discussion in a few posts on this forum, I think my rear biased wear is from my mileage coming from almost all highway. If you do a good amount of city driving, you should have fairly even wear front to rear.
12-23-2009, 02:10 PM
#167
MBWorld Fanatic!
indeed. No burnouts in C230s of any year. Mine could barely manage a chirp on the Kumhos worn to the wear bars, even with ESP entirely disabled.
12-23-2009, 02:13 PM
#168
Super Moderator
crap, I just read about your steering rack. I'm getting a popping noise too and a groaning noise as well.
I hope it's just the tie-rods and sway-bar end-links on my car. Otherwise, I don't want to fork out the $$$ on a new steering rack.
btw, do you guys remember what was the online salvage yard place that people were buying their command units from? if I could get a steering rack off of an '07, that may make it worth my while.
I hope it's just the tie-rods and sway-bar end-links on my car. Otherwise, I don't want to fork out the $$$ on a new steering rack.
btw, do you guys remember what was the online salvage yard place that people were buying their command units from? if I could get a steering rack off of an '07, that may make it worth my while.
12-23-2009, 02:40 PM
#169
Super Moderator
I helped a guy on the 204 forum the other day with a popping rack. It's not common but the odd one does this.
12-23-2009, 03:12 PM
#170
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crap, I just read about your steering rack. I'm getting a popping noise too and a groaning noise as well.
I hope it's just the tie-rods and sway-bar end-links on my car. Otherwise, I don't want to fork out the $$$ on a new steering rack.
btw, do you guys remember what was the online salvage yard place that people were buying their command units from? if I could get a steering rack off of an '07, that may make it worth my while.
I hope it's just the tie-rods and sway-bar end-links on my car. Otherwise, I don't want to fork out the $$$ on a new steering rack.
btw, do you guys remember what was the online salvage yard place that people were buying their command units from? if I could get a steering rack off of an '07, that may make it worth my while.
06-30-2010, 11:19 AM
#171
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Haven't updated this thread in a while, so I wanted to post a pic of what I have planned over the long 4th of July holiday weekend:
So, here is what is planned:
1)Service B
2)7G transmission service (2nd)
3)Service rear differential
4)Overdue fuel filter replacement
5)Cabin filter replacement
I will be posting a DIY on the 7G transmission service. Probably with video. May do a video of the other stuff too, if I am in the mood.
I am also in the process of making a spreader bar to do the alignment. Will update here when that is complete.
I still have to paint and install my euro/taiwan impact strips. Full paint correction as well. Just not enough hours in the day.
So, here is what is planned:
1)Service B
2)7G transmission service (2nd)
3)Service rear differential
4)Overdue fuel filter replacement
5)Cabin filter replacement
I will be posting a DIY on the 7G transmission service. Probably with video. May do a video of the other stuff too, if I am in the mood.
I am also in the process of making a spreader bar to do the alignment. Will update here when that is complete.
I still have to paint and install my euro/taiwan impact strips. Full paint correction as well. Just not enough hours in the day.
06-30-2010, 08:25 PM
#172
MBWorld Fanatic!
Haven't updated this thread in a while, so I wanted to post a pic of what I have planned over the long 4th of July holiday weekend:
So, here is what is planned:
1)Service B
2)7G transmission service (2nd)
3)Service rear differential
4)Overdue fuel filter replacement
5)Cabin filter replacement
I will be posting a DIY on the 7G transmission service. Probably with video. May do a video of the other stuff too, if I am in the mood.
I am also in the process of making a spreader bar to do the alignment. Will update here when that is complete.
I still have to paint and install my euro/taiwan impact strips. Full paint correction as well. Just not enough hours in the day.
So, here is what is planned:
1)Service B
2)7G transmission service (2nd)
3)Service rear differential
4)Overdue fuel filter replacement
5)Cabin filter replacement
I will be posting a DIY on the 7G transmission service. Probably with video. May do a video of the other stuff too, if I am in the mood.
I am also in the process of making a spreader bar to do the alignment. Will update here when that is complete.
I still have to paint and install my euro/taiwan impact strips. Full paint correction as well. Just not enough hours in the day.
Just saw this thread..how is your arm? Is it better now? The 7G DIY would be insanely helpful. I'm at 45 and still haven't done it
Good Luck man
