New Pre-Paid Maintenance Contract
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 308
Likes: 22
From: Houston TX
2015 E400
New Pre-Paid Maintenance Contract
Just bought a new 2015 E400 3 days ago.
Just called back to MB dealer & he stated that he'll sell me the Pre-paid maintenance contract at cost, which is $100 off the below prices:
$850 2 yrs, 2 services: A,B
$1125 3 yrs, 3 services: A, B, A
$1475 4 yrs, 4 services: A, B, A, B
He said that they're normally selling them at $100 over cost, but he'll sell at cost to me, & that the normal scheduled prices are:
A $275
B $600
A $275
B $1000
So it's a total of $2150 in services cost for all 4 for $1475
Good deal...?
Just called back to MB dealer & he stated that he'll sell me the Pre-paid maintenance contract at cost, which is $100 off the below prices:
$850 2 yrs, 2 services: A,B
$1125 3 yrs, 3 services: A, B, A
$1475 4 yrs, 4 services: A, B, A, B
He said that they're normally selling them at $100 over cost, but he'll sell at cost to me, & that the normal scheduled prices are:
A $275
B $600
A $275
B $1000
So it's a total of $2150 in services cost for all 4 for $1475
Good deal...?
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
2023 EQS SUV; 2021 911 C2; 2014 E350 Wagon; 2003 Land Cruiser
I believe the service sequence is A -B - A - C.
C being the big one where transmission fluid is replaced either at the 40k or 4 year mark. B is where the brake fluid is flushed.
Nonetheless, that seems like a good deal. I paid $1400 for 3 services (A, B and C) -- but labor costs here in NJ are probably higher.
C being the big one where transmission fluid is replaced either at the 40k or 4 year mark. B is where the brake fluid is flushed.
Nonetheless, that seems like a good deal. I paid $1400 for 3 services (A, B and C) -- but labor costs here in NJ are probably higher.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 576
Likes: 8
From: Placitas, NM
E550
Well, salesmanship is salesmanship. Understand that the finance guy is paid significantly by sales $$$.
I got a 3 service plan for $1089 in August 2014, on a 2011 E550.
B-A-B (60K-70K-80K) which is the best deal. 60K and 80K are expensive, especially 80K.
But I must add, nobody ever gets a "good deal" on any of these things. You get what you can get, deal with it, and move on. Nobody ever bought a new Mercedes thinking they were going to get Toyota service costs.
FWIW
I got a 3 service plan for $1089 in August 2014, on a 2011 E550.
B-A-B (60K-70K-80K) which is the best deal. 60K and 80K are expensive, especially 80K.
But I must add, nobody ever gets a "good deal" on any of these things. You get what you can get, deal with it, and move on. Nobody ever bought a new Mercedes thinking they were going to get Toyota service costs.
FWIW
Last edited by Live Oak; Apr 27, 2015 at 06:46 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
Likes: 394
From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
Sounds like a good price, but consider waiting until after your first service which is the cheapest, then buy a 3 pack for the 20/30/40. Then do the 50 at your own cost if you still own the car, then consider a 3 pack for the 60/70/80 if you plan to keep it. Doesn't matter which service is next for you when you buy the plan as pricing is the same for all based on model. Note they change pricing in August/September. Don't worry about the deal they are offering for $100, there are other dealers that will offer good deals later too. Plus you save sales tax if you buy out of state.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 6,397
Likes: 695
From: Northwest Illinois
2014 E350 also restored: 1969 Camaro convertible SS 1957 Chevy Belair 2dr hardtop
There are so many Mercedes benz dealers where I live it just does not pay to buy a service prepaid package. One of the dealers is always giving a discount. My first A service was $135 using a coupon from another dealer.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 1,365
Likes: 61
2006 E320 CDI 2014 C63 507 Coupe 2012 E550 4M 2016 E63s Wagon
IMO $1475 or less is a good buy for 4 years service - no worries - no more price shopping. It locks in the prices, allows you to go to whatever dealer in the USA you want to go to, and you don't have service managers recommending unnecessary things when you go in.
My first MB I paid for service after that I got prepaid.
My first MB I paid for service after that I got prepaid.
Trending Topics
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
Likes: 394
From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
Closest dealer for me is 15 miles away. next one is 35 miles away. One is supposedly to an area about 10 miles in the opposite direction. Hopefully that will bring competition. I wish they would do an A for $135. Around here that is an indy price.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 308
Likes: 22
From: Houston TX
2015 E400
For our previous ML350 & GLK, for the A service at 10K & 30K miles, we just brought 8 quarts of Mobile 1 & a MB oil filter to the oil change place. Just make sure you observe they replace the oil filter O ring.
So $30 + $12 + $20 labor. Done.
So $30 + $12 + $20 labor. Done.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,506
Likes: 66
From: Sidney, BC
2009 SLK55 AMG. & 2022 GLA250 4Matic
I think you need to consider your driving patterns and how frequently you will reach service milestones.
I have a 4 yr old E350 4matic and other than warranty issues which were few, my services have been tripped on time.
My costs to date have been $1897 CDN including some replacement of some parts damaged by me driving over and object.
I have a 4 yr old E350 4matic and other than warranty issues which were few, my services have been tripped on time.
My costs to date have been $1897 CDN including some replacement of some parts damaged by me driving over and object.
Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 149
Likes: 20
From: So/Cal The IE
2017 GLE 350 Selenite Grey 15 CLS400 Avalon 2013 XTS
I was getting a wash at the dealer, and told a fellow owner you don't have to do A or B at the dealership. He was so irate and got even more upset as I told him you don't have to any service with the dealer. Because it doesn't effect your MB warranty as long you get it done. Here in SoCal there are a few certified repair shop with reasonable cost, A for $145 and B $225 or less.
Last edited by longslim; Apr 29, 2015 at 02:38 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,506
Likes: 66
From: Sidney, BC
2009 SLK55 AMG. & 2022 GLA250 4Matic
Service
Of that parts and taxes were 145.18 were $162.60.
Now I accept that some parts such as Mobil 1 oil Mann filters etc. can be bought for less but in my neck of the woods competent indy labour is not that much cheaper than a my dealer.
So if I could save 10% maybe I am interested but they give me a car for the day at no charge which an indy may not do.
I get great service from a thougthful tech who knows his stuff.
What I don't get is why folks who can afford these cars want to cheap out in service.
My wife's Toyota Matrix has dropped a battery, an O2 sensor, a MAF sensor and the evaporator control sensor in the last year and that has cost well over $1200 to get fixed at an indy.
I am not so sure what the issue is.
Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 149
Likes: 20
From: So/Cal The IE
2017 GLE 350 Selenite Grey 15 CLS400 Avalon 2013 XTS
I have a friend with 60k Ram truck that changes his oil. and he is rich. Jeez people act like a MB is some magical car that only can be touch by MB dealer. I was only saying you don't need to pay there price it's your choice.
My wife's Toyota Matrix has dropped a battery, an O2 sensor, a MAF sensor and the evaporator control sensor in the last year and that has cost well over $1200 to get fixed at an indy.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Sounds like a good price, but consider waiting until after your first service which is the cheapest, then buy a 3 pack for the 20/30/40. Then do the 50 at your own cost if you still own the car, then consider a 3 pack for the 60/70/80 if you plan to keep it. Doesn't matter which service is next for you when you buy the plan as pricing is the same for all based on model. Note they change pricing in August/September. Don't worry about the deal they are offering for $100, there are other dealers that will offer good deals later too. Plus you save sales tax if you buy out of state.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
Likes: 394
From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
you can buy prepaid maintenance anytime before car reaches 80k. The plan specifies the number of services and the amount of time the contract is good for (i.e. mine was 3 services within 4 years) to keep you from skipping services. Whenever you buy it, it covers the next one and so on. No need to buy before first service.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 308
Likes: 22
From: Houston TX
2015 E400
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 1,053
Likes: 347
2011 E-350 4Matic Sport
I wish I had a dollar for every time I've been told "at my cost" lol. I could buy a second benz.
Totally agree with LongSlim. I can afford the car and the service but I prefer DIY when feasible and I guarantee I can do a more careful and thorough job of it. Buying a more expensive car doesn't suddenly make us helpless.
Totally agree with LongSlim. I can afford the car and the service but I prefer DIY when feasible and I guarantee I can do a more careful and thorough job of it. Buying a more expensive car doesn't suddenly make us helpless.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,616
Likes: 160
From: Southeastern USA
2010 E350 Luxury Sedan, Engine 272 (V6)
Still amazes me that someone will get an M-B and then go cheap on maintenance.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 308
Likes: 22
From: Houston TX
2015 E400
Our last 3 MB's costs less than my last few Corvettes & SUV's, & 1st wife.
Yep, went cheap on maintenance on all of 'em, & still got great rides & mileage on all of 'em.... DIY!!!
Yep, went cheap on maintenance on all of 'em, & still got great rides & mileage on all of 'em.... DIY!!!
Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 149
Likes: 20
From: So/Cal The IE
2017 GLE 350 Selenite Grey 15 CLS400 Avalon 2013 XTS
How is it going cheap paying a $165 for a oil change? There are some great shops in Los Angles with superb reputation that are use by the very wealth on the west side. . If your argument is against going to Jiffy Lube or some other quicky shop, okay valid point. I'm only saying you don't have to limit your source for service. And I agree that DIY is the way to go if you like working on your car, I trust me to do a good job every time. But you're correct if something major does happens, it is nice to know the service writer. But the guy doing the job that's another matter. I came from a Lexus then got a Cadillac V sport both cost as much as this car. Lexus had 25k and my Caddy-V came with 50k free oil changes tire rotation and check levels, so maybe I'm a little jade by M-B service cost.
Last edited by longslim; Apr 30, 2015 at 02:09 PM.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
From: S. Florida
2013 E350 SPORT
Still amazes me that someone will get an M-B and then go cheap on maintenance.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
A good tech is just that and he doesnt have to work at a Mercedes stealership.
Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 89
Likes: 0
From: Near Worcester, MA.
2013 E350
Still amazes me that someone will get an M-B and then go cheap on maintenance.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
The "indies" and oil change places save money by NOT doing something. Even if it is just a check, it reassures me that the car has been checked over by someone who really knows MB's and has access to ALL MB electronic information.
Have experienced and know others that took cars to indies and major mistakes were made. "Not my fault" is always their answer and you have no recourse.
More importantly using dealership establishes a relationship with the MB dealer and the service dept., so when something goes wrong they are more likely to be on your side.
Before someone fires off, YES in the US your warranty is valid no matter who does the service. BUT, if there is a question, you are in for a fight.
Regardless, the pre-paid maintenance plan should be with MBUSA or equivalent. That way all services required by MB to maintain warranty are performed. And you can get work done at any MB dealership.
I purchased one in 2010 for first three services just to protect against future labor and parts increases. Also, saved a few dollars.
Couldn't agree more about the "establishing a relationship" part with your MB dealer. Been going to the same MB dealer for many years now and enjoy the relationship we have. I buy my cars there and service them there. Experience there is second to none. And, yes, I buy prepaid because it makes sense to me.
