Service B1 on Off Lease vehicle
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2007
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Service B1 on Off Lease vehicle
I just purchased a 2 year off lease vehicle, E350 Bluetec. Car has 21,4k miles. It says i'm 900 miles over Service B1. Anyone have thoughts on whether to do the Service with Mercedes (costing over $300) to do? I like the car but I'm not a Hedge Fund manager or can I go to a certified mechanic and have it done with them? What is B1 entailed?
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 20
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2012 E550 Coupe
You get what you pay for
I really hate to say this, but you should return the car now. It's crazy to purchase a vehicle that you can not afford to properly maintain. Call a local MB Dealership Service Department and they can and will tell you, what it entails and what it will cost. Meanwhile, you need to start a Maintenance Fund Account and donate to it weekly.
I just purchased a 2012 E550 Coupe, with the AMG package. Second evening with the car, I hit a pothole that took out both tires on the driver's side, $550.00. By the Grace of God, the wheels where not damaged.
So start that Account, ASAP.
By the way, I totally love the car, Smoked a Bimmer the other day and never looked back! !!!! :-)
I just purchased a 2012 E550 Coupe, with the AMG package. Second evening with the car, I hit a pothole that took out both tires on the driver's side, $550.00. By the Grace of God, the wheels where not damaged.
So start that Account, ASAP.
By the way, I totally love the car, Smoked a Bimmer the other day and never looked back! !!!! :-)
Last edited by Twil008; Jul 22, 2015 at 08:03 PM. Reason: mis-spelled, Bimmer
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2007
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Who said anything about not properly maintaining. It's one thing to be cheap and not do it, its another to be informed and capable and doing it yourself when you know the dealer isn't doing anything more that you couldn't or someone couldn't do for a more reasonable price. You don't have to pay the Brand price just because it's a Mercedes. It's still mechanical.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
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From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
You should research Indy mechanics in yoru area and call for pricing. Most will beat the dealer but be sure to get recommendations. If you don't have the maintenance guide which describes what is due, then you can download at mbusa.com.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 748
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From: Zion
W212 E550 4M P2
Is it worth saving a few bucks? How much will you save in the short-run and long-run?
While under warranty, my cars are serviced by the stealer so warranty work can more readily be performed. I'm also attempting to build a mutually beneficial relationship with them so I can get the benefit of the doubt later.
I also value the conveniece of the stealer's loaner. One, I don't have time to sit and wait for service to be completed. Second, as a registered petrol head, I like driving something new "just to see."
It can be more expensive at the dealer, but don't rush in blindly. Protect yourself through knowledge. Get to know your recommended service intervals published in the manual.
While under warranty, my cars are serviced by the stealer so warranty work can more readily be performed. I'm also attempting to build a mutually beneficial relationship with them so I can get the benefit of the doubt later.
I also value the conveniece of the stealer's loaner. One, I don't have time to sit and wait for service to be completed. Second, as a registered petrol head, I like driving something new "just to see."
It can be more expensive at the dealer, but don't rush in blindly. Protect yourself through knowledge. Get to know your recommended service intervals published in the manual.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
Likes: 394
From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
For reference, Service B at my dealer is $360 while two indys are $263 to $275 for the same if you want all the checks done. Usually brake fluid is done at the same interval as B and that was $120 at dealer versus $40-65 at Indys. The saving can add up.
Personally I bought the prepaid maintenance 3 pack. It locked in the dealer pricing at a level that was cheaper than Indy pricing for the next 3. And I get MB loaner rather than have to arrange drop off/pick up. Research pays off.
Personally I bought the prepaid maintenance 3 pack. It locked in the dealer pricing at a level that was cheaper than Indy pricing for the next 3. And I get MB loaner rather than have to arrange drop off/pick up. Research pays off.
Member
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 230
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From: Greenville SC USA
2008 E320 Bluetec (until 11/14), 2001 SLK 320, 2004 Volvo V70, 1972 MGB, 2013 E350
If it is a CPO vehicle the service should have been done.When I got my 2013 it called for B1 service a month later. I called the dealer since there are service requirements for CPO status. The dealer whined but they did the service FOC.
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Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 20
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2012 E550 Coupe
Well, if I remember correctly, you stated concerns about affording a, "Certified MB Mechanic", as well. At that point, I made that suggestion. If you brought a Porsche, you would not take it to Sears or Firestone STS or PEP Boys for service, would you?
Most people (garages) do not have the equipment to accurately read the MB's diagnostic codes. When you play with fire, you eventually get, "Burned" !!! Set up the Account !!!!
And I wish you the very best of luck with your ride !!!!!
Most people (garages) do not have the equipment to accurately read the MB's diagnostic codes. When you play with fire, you eventually get, "Burned" !!! Set up the Account !!!!
And I wish you the very best of luck with your ride !!!!!
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2014
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2011 E-350 4Matic Sport
I typically do and document my own maintenance where reasonable or when I have the time to do it. I did my 40k service at 37k miles, close enough, stuff like oil change, air and cabin filters and inspections. I took it in for the tranny fluid service though. It's really up to you, just keep a record of what you do. I will say that as I get older the dealer will be doing more.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 379
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From: middle o' ma
15 AMG S63 4-matic coupe
Talk with your service manager about a 3 service package.
You can pre-purchsae the service ahead of time and save some money as the 40K service is rather expensive.
You can pre-purchsae the service ahead of time and save some money as the 40K service is rather expensive.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 3,107
Likes: 394
From: West Central Florida
2011 E550 P2 4M Sedan
you can search for that on here or check out a local dealer website. I think it is basically all the required maintenance in the guide for 2y/20k miles except for the brake fluid. Or at least my dealer does not include the brake fluid change in the Service B. That's extra!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,034
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From: Toronto
MY17 E43 Matte Selenite/Macchiato Beige, MY16 GLE350d Tenorite/Crystal Grey, MY17 B250
It is particularly important on the diesels to follow the maintenance schedule. Get the oil and filter changed ASAP, regardless of who you get to do it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,616
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From: Southeastern USA
2010 E350 Luxury Sedan, Engine 272 (V6)
Maintenance Manual
Didn't you get a maintenance manual with your car? As someone suggested, go to MBUSA.com because it will be VIN specific or model year specific.
Personally, I have all my services done by dealerships for all makes I have owned. Too many problems with "certified" mechanics screwing up. Who certifies them, the company that makes money off certifying them? MB four-15 years ago?
It also builds a good relationship with the dealership and MB which pays off in the long run.
It's an MB, not a Chevy or a Toyota. In fact, I don't trust my Toyota to "independents."
If you just purchased it, the service should have been done prior to purchase - or did you not get it from an MB dealer?
Personally, I have all my services done by dealerships for all makes I have owned. Too many problems with "certified" mechanics screwing up. Who certifies them, the company that makes money off certifying them? MB four-15 years ago?
It also builds a good relationship with the dealership and MB which pays off in the long run.
It's an MB, not a Chevy or a Toyota. In fact, I don't trust my Toyota to "independents."
If you just purchased it, the service should have been done prior to purchase - or did you not get it from an MB dealer?
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 57
Likes: 4
From: St Augustine, FL
2013 E350 Bluetec, 2007 Corvette supercharged, Saab 9-5, Hyundai Genesis Sedan
B1 Service
I purchased a off lease at 16K and had similar service questions. Car fax showed that the 20k service was done but the dealer refused to verify due to the fact that I wasn't the initial owner - just stupid. Anyway I waited until right at 20k and did the service myself. Not really any harder than other cars, just different and the first time questions. Anyway, the oil, filter, air filters and fuel filter. Parts alone were a bit over $200 but outside of that, it was ok to do yourself.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 737
Likes: 60
From: HESPERIA CA
2011 E550
Get it done ASAP. Keep in mind-though if your car is still under warranty get it done from the dealership. You pay a bit more but if anything warranty related comes up, all your service records are readily available
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,616
Likes: 160
From: Southeastern USA
2010 E350 Luxury Sedan, Engine 272 (V6)
I purchased a off lease at 16K and had similar service questions. Car fax showed that the 20k service was done but the dealer refused to verify due to the fact that I wasn't the initial owner - just stupid. Anyway I waited until right at 20k and did the service myself. Not really any harder than other cars, just different and the first time questions. Anyway, the oil, filter, air filters and fuel filter. Parts alone were a bit over $200 but outside of that, it was ok to do yourself.
I have looked at some of the stickies on benzworld.com on DIY for "E" Class. Far more difficult than most Asian and American cars. Examples: changing air filter and changing cabin filter.
As for verifying service, if done at an MB dealership, wouldn't MBUSA have the records?
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 57
Likes: 4
From: St Augustine, FL
2013 E350 Bluetec, 2007 Corvette supercharged, Saab 9-5, Hyundai Genesis Sedan
off lease maintaince
I did call MB USA and they indicated that the service records are only at the individual dealer - wasn't happy with my first MB experience but in the end it didn't make a difference.
I also did the cabin filter. A bit more than my Hyundai but much easier than the Saab. Much less plug and play than the Asian cars but fairly straight forward once you spend a little time to learn your way around under the hood. Hardest thing was to find a non-dealer with the new style bluetec fuel filter for 2013+. Most still have it on back order since April.
The Genesis is a 2010 V8 with 75k. Its my wife's car and has been rock solid with minimal issues. She was in a nasty hit and run accident a few years ago with a drunk driver and not a scratch on my wife, son and two other kids she was bringing home after a HS football game. Did its job for sure. Would buy again, just not new. More initial depreciation than most.
I also did the cabin filter. A bit more than my Hyundai but much easier than the Saab. Much less plug and play than the Asian cars but fairly straight forward once you spend a little time to learn your way around under the hood. Hardest thing was to find a non-dealer with the new style bluetec fuel filter for 2013+. Most still have it on back order since April.
The Genesis is a 2010 V8 with 75k. Its my wife's car and has been rock solid with minimal issues. She was in a nasty hit and run accident a few years ago with a drunk driver and not a scratch on my wife, son and two other kids she was bringing home after a HS football game. Did its job for sure. Would buy again, just not new. More initial depreciation than most.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,084
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From: Athens, GA USA
2011 E63, 2011 Hyundai Genesis 4.6 v8, 2013 GMC Denali XL, 1965 Ford Mustang, 2005 Merc. E500
What year Genesis and how is working out? If I had to replace my E350, a Genesis would be a strong consideration.
I have looked at some of the stickies on benzworld.com on DIY for "E" Class. Far more difficult than most Asian and American cars. Examples: changing air filter and changing cabin filter.
As for verifying service, if done at an MB dealership, wouldn't MBUSA have the records?
I have looked at some of the stickies on benzworld.com on DIY for "E" Class. Far more difficult than most Asian and American cars. Examples: changing air filter and changing cabin filter.
As for verifying service, if done at an MB dealership, wouldn't MBUSA have the records?
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 1
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range rover
Looking for the best price doesn’t mean the gentleman can’t afford his automobile. He is simple being smarter with his money than most people. My father was a very rich man and you better believe that he always looked for the better price if he could get it. He made millions and died with millions. He always said you can tell when someone is pretending to b someone they’re not. I’m guessing the fact you can’t spell Beamer and no grown adult would smoke his tires. Also not sure what a maintenance fund account is but I’m guessing it’s that piggy bank you keep next to your night light for emergency rainy days. Most of us just write a check. And we have the money in our checking accounts because we shop around and find the best value for our dollar. Hope one day you really do achieve all the things you’ve pretended to have on this forum. Have a good night. You’ve got schools tomorrow.
