dochou

Can I just go to Kragen's and buy regular PS fluid or do I need to use MB specific fluid?
Is there a generic form of the MB fluid? If so where can I get it?
How much does MB fluid cost?

Also the fill cap is just a black circular cap at the front driver's side of engine, correct?
There is no writing on the cap indicating Power steering fluid, correct?
thanks.

konigstiger

see page 19:
https://mbworld.org/forums/3025494-post81.html

dochou

So ONLY use MB products, right?
No other options?

konigstiger

Yes, Pentosin CHF11S part # BQ1320001 ($21 list/17.50 net)

dochou

Thanks for the advice.
Where can i buy the fluid on the net?
I am new to this site and do not know all the great places to buy MB stuff.

Untertürkheim

getcoolparts.com

Has nearly every possible lubricant, and lots of MB parts.

konigstiger

You can purchase from any MB dealer parts counter, here are a couple of online sources (use part # Q1320001):

http://catalog.mercedesshop.com
http://www.parts.com
http://mercedespartssuperstore.com

dochou

Hmm none of the online dealers you listed sells power steering fluid.
I just checked their online catelogs.
Guess I will go down to the MB stealer parts counter to buy it.

konigstiger

All three do simply search for part #Q1320001.

TTopJohn

The power steering system requiring CHF 11S brings to mind another question - how common are leaks from the W211 power steering system?

I ask because BMW's power steering systems (at least on E53s E39s and E38s) leak like crazy after a few years. It's not a huge deal because for the most part, they use cheap readily available Dexron III/IV ATF. Only those BMWs with self leveling suspension use the more expensive not at every parts store Pentosin CHF 11S

dochou

Thanks konigstiger.
I decided to go to the dealer to buy the pentosin. The charged me $46!!! Including tax.
What a rippoff!!! I am gonna buy it online now and then return the crap to the dealers. Why does MB Dealers all over the world love to rip customers off. That's why I hate going to the dealers b/c:
1. They don't know what they are talking about half the time.
2. They overcharge for everything.

Untertürkheim

MB dealer sold me MB-branded PS fluid for $12 per bottle, your dealer is odd.

BENZITCH

$9.30 list for a liter for w126 power steering fluid at my dealership.

mercedesisha

My car was turning on with a sound and even worse when it would turn. the power steering fluid was low. Turns out the same stuff you find at autozone is just repackaged at mercedes dealership and more expensive. They both are Pentosin CHF 11S Fluid. Same fluid inside. Just different packaging.

I attached a picture. The fluid is green. I pumped out the old red fluid that was in there, filled it up with new fluid. Pumped it out a few times til the new fluid was nice and clear green. If it's not filled at the right level it will cause issues. not enough fluid will make the car turn on with quite an ugly sound. At the correct level, the car turns out quiet.

kajtek1

Good if you can compare the products and share the finding with internet friends
When I am preparing bigger work, I order on the net and when autohusaz offers lot of aftermarket, http://www.mbdirectparts.com/ is official MB dealer with best prices on MB products.
$40 for brake fluid is excessive, but even when I need something quick, I don't go to closest dealer who is having snobbish clientele, but I drive to other, who still is 10 miles away and they always have fair prices.
Often when I have time, I call them in advance for pricing and present myself as business owner. My business has nothing to do with cars, but they always offer me at least 10% discount.

relinuca

Use only Pentosin CHF 11S, a synthetic hydraulic fluid. Listen to Konigstier (sp?)...don't cheap out on this; get the good stuff.


relinuca

Gersh320

What a JOKE! I replaced my reservoir and fluid at 150k. Good idea to keep it fresh. I've replaced the fluid every 50k but at this age and mileage it was a good idea (and inexpensive) to have fresh fluid and filter. I think I only paid $60 for both items!

Pitek

Dear dochou,

I have been searching for answers to my unresolved problem.
I read your comments. I absolutely love them!
You said it all my Friend.

Thank you,
Pitek

albania

thanks for the info

albania

what colour it is?
I asked 2 mechanics and they said to use only red oil?

Flash Gordon

It is clear color. I used it on my previous E500. You can buy it at NAPA at a good price. It's a huge can.

N_Jay

If I recall it is very light green, almost clear, but easily differentiated from red and yellow fluids.

albania

because my mercedes is 12 years old now, the mechanic was afraid to put this kind of oil, so he suggested the classic red one, for the moment it seems ok

N_Jay

That makes no sense?

Why does that age matter?

albania

because all the parts are worn, and the red oil is more viscous, so it will not drain through the gaps