A couple days ago, we took the 2001 C240 in for service at the dealer and they performed a complimentary safety inspection. They reported "stabilizer links loose" and "thrust arm bushings torn" and quoted $1050 + tax for the repair. Now, I've looked around the web and found this to be a relatively common issue with the W203 chassis (not to mention that the suspension has been making a clunking noise on the front passenger side for a few months now). However, what I'm unsure about is what exactly needs to be replaced.

I know the thrust arm bushings need to be replaced, but those are about $20-$30 each. I'm aware that the dealer normally charges an arm and three legs for repairs, but what exactly are we getting for $1050? It includes an alignment, but am I missing something regarding the repair? I could probably replace the bushings on my own if that's all that is necessary.

I haven't actually gotten around to visually inspecting the suspension, so I'm just going by what the dealer says. Additionally, if some other components like the front lower control arms need to be replaced, should I stick with OEM or go with aftermarket parts?

Thanks!

 

dealers.

You should buy OEM parts - aka Lemforder - and these are inexpensive parts. At a good indy you might be out $250-300. The dealer rates are beyond ridiculous.

 

Wow, I knew the dealers were bad, but not this bad.

Thanks for the tip on using OEM parts. Those are the ones I looked at but I was just curious if the W203 community opted for more robust parts.

Well, I'll be taking it to the local shop to see how much they charge.

 

Please let us know which parts you wind up replacing (if you can post part #'s too that would be great) and if it solves your front end clunk. Mine's doing that too and I've replaced the stabilizer end links - wondering what else I need to replace. I've been under the car and can't find anything loose...

 

Sure, will do.

 

Order sway links & castor bushes/thrust arm bushes from RMeuropean or similar & go to an Indy. Dealers are a joke.

 

the dealership isnt for repairs its just for buying new cars

once u drive out that door they will screw u

just like today i was quoted 3 grand unwritten

i call later and they say 2 grand ....where did that other grand come from?

 

I will only do things like transmission fluid at the dealer. Heck, I think that's the only thing I will be doing there.

 

Don't do transmission fluid at dealer do it yourself so much cheaper shell 134 ATF can be had for under $60 a case (12 Quarts) and the filter and gasket are under $25.

As for OP make sure to use OEM/OES parts if you use cheap parts you will be doing the job again very soon trust me on that

 

You really need to ask around where you live and find a good shop that does German cars if possible, but really just any old shop can fix the issues you mentioned. I have a good shop. But do ask around and get recommendations. It is crucial that you trust them.

I know this may sound wierd, but I have found a very good TV program from the UK called Wheeler Dealers. It is available on Velocity Channel. I have learned a lot about suspensions, brakes, wheels, tires, spark plugs, transmissionsfuel pumps, interiors, etc. What it is is one guy buys old cars that need fixing and the other guys does the work. It is the mechanic who really shows how stuff is done. Watching those episodes will give you some confidence when dealing with auto repair shops. At least I did.