Mercedes-Benz Service - Am I getting gouged our is this normal?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 98
Likes: 4
From: Chicago
E550 Coupe, W465 G63
Mercedes-Benz Service - Am I getting gouged our is this normal?
Just picked up my E-Coupe from it's "B" (20,000mi?) service and I cant swallow the $450 bill that I just paid for a few filters and brake fluid... 
This is my first Benz, previously I owned an 05 Audi S4 & 09 BMW 3series so I am not accustomed to seeing a bill when I pick up my car from service.
Just curious to hear from other Mercedes owners if this is normal/expected and if there is a more cost effective way to get the services done. (please share any and all tips/experiences, they will be MUCH appreciated)
This is my first Benz, previously I owned an 05 Audi S4 & 09 BMW 3series so I am not accustomed to seeing a bill when I pick up my car from service.
Just curious to hear from other Mercedes owners if this is normal/expected and if there is a more cost effective way to get the services done. (please share any and all tips/experiences, they will be MUCH appreciated)
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
From: Marietta, GA
2011 E550 Coupe
Both. You are getting gouged. And that is completely normal. The B service runs just under $400 here, so you're a little high but in the typical ballpark.
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
Engine compartment
Visually check
Function check
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
Engine compartment
Visually check
- Leakage of major components
- Chafe marks, line routing, components in the event of leakage, determine cause and create estimate if necessary.
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Check and correct fluid levels
- Engine cooling system, anti-freeze and corrosion protection
- Brake system
- Windshield washer
- Power Steering System
- Top off fluid level of window washer system
- Replace dust filter
- Replace wiper blade(s) if necessary
- Check condition of poly V-belt
- Throttle linkage, check function and condition
- Check engine hood and safety catch for proper operation
- Check Battery acid level & replenish
- Check battery using "Midtronics" Tester
Function check
- Horn, headlamp flasher, hazard flashers, turn signals
- Warning/indicator lamps, illumination and interior lighting
- Exterior lighting including headlamps
- Inspect headlamp range adjustment system (does not apply to xenon headlamps)
- Replace bulbs as necessary headlamps, fog lights, and some third brake lights extra cost.
- Inspect headlamp setting, adjust to correct setting
- Windshield wipers, rear window wiper, windshield washer system
- Headlamp cleaning system
- Check seat belts for damage and correct function
- Reset FSS counter in instrument cluster
- Replace wiper blade for front/rear window
- Check body for paint damage
- Check chassis and supporting body parts for damage and corrosion
- Check level control if equipped
- Inspect wheels, rotate if necessary
- Check thickness of brake pads
- Check condition of brake discs
- Check brake pads for lining thickness front/rear
- Check condition of brake discs front and rear
- Check parking brake (function test only)
- Correct tire inflation pressure
- Inspect tires for damage and condition
- Measure tread depth
- Check play in front and rear wheel bearings
- Check condition of front axle ball joints
- Check condition of steering mechanical components
- Inspect play of tie rod and drag link joints
- Inspect rubber boots for damage or wear
- Inspect exhaust system and hangers for damage or leaks
- Check for damaged/worn drive train parts
- Check for excessive axle joint play
- Correct tire inflation pressure in spare tire
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 98
Likes: 4
From: Chicago
E550 Coupe, W465 G63
Both. You are getting gouged. And that is completely normal. The B service runs just under $400 here, so you're a little high but in the typical ballpark.
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
John C,
Thanks for your timely response.
Although it was a bit more expenive than it might be elsewhere, I DO very much so like my local dealership! They have an excellent service model which makes it easy to justify the premium $$$. Service dept. is open late, they have the great loaners (2011 C-Class), friendly staff...overall great experience. QUICK PLUG: The dealership is Motor Werks in Barrington, IL. They have an outstanding service model and I would recommend them to anyone. (Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche, Infiniti, Cadillac, Saab, Honda, and Land Rover)
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 2,200
Likes: 10
2004 CLK320
Since your car should be still under warranty, you should not be paying for the brake fluid.
I, for one, do all my works in the dealership. However, I do believe that the dealership is the place to go if your car is still under warranty.
I, for one, do all my works in the dealership. However, I do believe that the dealership is the place to go if your car is still under warranty.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 425
Likes: 0
E350 Coupe
There is another plus to having the car serviced at the dealer and it comes into play when it's time to sell or trade the vehicle. That is a complete service record and proof that all recommended service was done. Service records are always one of the first things mentioned on the forums when someone is asking what to look for when buying a used car. Do I consider MB's service to be overpriced...yes, but on down the road it just may pay off.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 2,200
Likes: 10
2004 CLK320
Even if I service my car in an indy, I can still keep all the service records.
One thing I don't understand is Carfax. Let say someone got into a big accident and got it fixed in a non-dealer body shop, how would the information of this repair get into Carfax?
One thing I don't understand is Carfax. Let say someone got into a big accident and got it fixed in a non-dealer body shop, how would the information of this repair get into Carfax?
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Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 98
Likes: 4
From: Chicago
E550 Coupe, W465 G63
There is another plus to having the car serviced at the dealer and it comes into play when it's time to sell or trade the vehicle. That is a complete service record and proof that all recommended service was done. Service records are always one of the first things mentioned on the forums when someone is asking what to look for when buying a used car. Do I consider MB's service to be overpriced...yes, but on down the road it just may pay off.
My thoughts exactly.
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Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 128
Likes: 6
CLA250
Both. You are getting gouged. And that is completely normal. The B service runs just under $400 here, so you're a little high but in the typical ballpark.
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
Engine compartment
Visually check
Function check
With Internet information making it harder for anyone to make big margins on car sales, these service visits are huge money makers and help pay for the fancy dealerships. And yes, there are more affordable options. Certified independent service centers will perform the same checks for less. Or you can always just get an oil change and reset the service indicator yourself. Below is the list of checks normally performed during the B service, just so you'll know what what's not getting checked if you elect to go that last route.
Engine compartment
Visually check
- Leakage of major components
- Chafe marks, line routing, components in the event of leakage, determine cause and create estimate if necessary.
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Check and correct fluid levels
- Engine cooling system, anti-freeze and corrosion protection
- Brake system
- Windshield washer
- Power Steering System
- Top off fluid level of window washer system
- Replace dust filter
- Replace wiper blade(s) if necessary
- Check condition of poly V-belt
- Throttle linkage, check function and condition
- Check engine hood and safety catch for proper operation
- Check Battery acid level & replenish
- Check battery using "Midtronics" Tester
Function check
- Horn, headlamp flasher, hazard flashers, turn signals
- Warning/indicator lamps, illumination and interior lighting
- Exterior lighting including headlamps
- Inspect headlamp range adjustment system (does not apply to xenon headlamps)
- Replace bulbs as necessary headlamps, fog lights, and some third brake lights extra cost.
- Inspect headlamp setting, adjust to correct setting
- Windshield wipers, rear window wiper, windshield washer system
- Headlamp cleaning system
- Check seat belts for damage and correct function
- Reset FSS counter in instrument cluster
- Replace wiper blade for front/rear window
- Check body for paint damage
- Check chassis and supporting body parts for damage and corrosion
- Check level control if equipped
- Inspect wheels, rotate if necessary
- Check thickness of brake pads
- Check condition of brake discs
- Check brake pads for lining thickness front/rear
- Check condition of brake discs front and rear
- Check parking brake (function test only)
- Correct tire inflation pressure
- Inspect tires for damage and condition
- Measure tread depth
- Check play in front and rear wheel bearings
- Check condition of front axle ball joints
- Check condition of steering mechanical components
- Inspect play of tie rod and drag link joints
- Inspect rubber boots for damage or wear
- Inspect exhaust system and hangers for damage or leaks
- Check for damaged/worn drive train parts
- Check for excessive axle joint play
- Correct tire inflation pressure in spare tire
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
From: Norway
2010 C207, 2011 R172
Is there a problem paying a premium for service on a premium brand? Where I live service is free for SEVEN years on a korean brand that would easily kill you on the first accident, boring you to death driving you there.....
People are strange ;-)
People are strange ;-)
Last edited by HakonLykaas; Oct 19, 2011 at 03:25 AM.
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
E350C
Carfax uses the same databases insurance companies report to when paying out claims. If the insurance company paid out a claim to repair the damage, it will be reported whether or not you take it to a dealer's body shop or one of your own choosing. If you decide not to file a claim for the repairs, well, that's a different story all together.
