mrjetskey

I was going to order battery however it states battery must be replaced by MB mechanic. my question does battery replacement require a MB tech to replace or can a simple watercraft mechanic replace it using standard safe battery replacement . Also is it proper to replace aux. batt. at same time? Thanks in advance for your help

rapidoxidation

An easy job. You might need to reset the windows (hold the button down until the window is down and you hear a click, hold the button up until the window is up and you hear a click) but that's about it.

kajtek1

My 2014 (post lift) model doesn't require any reset. It ever remembers garage codes.
I think lot of chain service stations made a policy of not touching MB as older models had batteries mounted under the seats and not only yesterday's burger flippers could spark them on installation, but occasional reverse cable hook up ended in big bills for electronic modules replacement.
It is much easier on W212, although lifting heavy battery over the fender require some strength.
Just triple check correct cable installation.

KEY08

Put on your back brace and go for it. There is nothing to worry about as this is the simplest DIY you can perform on the W212.

mrjetskey

One last question is there any problem using an AGM battery or should I use the MB. replacement with vent tube?? Thanks much!!

S. Madman

I did my first (and only swap) 3 years ago, in the middle of a rainstorm, with someone holding an umbrella on me. Took 5 minutes.

W205C43PFL

Most AGM battery should have a vent tube as well but yes if the one you get doesn't have a vent tube get one with it.

MeltdownSpectre

Replaced the batteries in both our W212s, one with a Varta AGM, and the other with a Bosch S5 AGM. Both had the little hole on the side for the vent tube. No problems whatsoever. Very easy replacement.

Original MB battery in our case was also an AGM made by Varta.

kajtek1

The PO of my W212 replaced the battery with flooded model and when it failed, I replaced it with flooded Bosch as well, who 3 years ago cost about $100.
Now flooded models are no longer available, when AGM models start at $250.

mrjetskey

Thanks it was easy replacement since hood will lift almost vertical on my 2013. battery was 254. with tax.My old battery was showing 11.5 volts and was going on 6 yrs. It was a 48 size but I replaced with 49 that has 1000cca instead of the mercedes 800cca. mercedes batt was 12" in length the 49 was 13 1/4" but fit perfect in tray. want to thank all you guys for your replies.Going to do brakes and spark plugs soon.Looks very straight forward .Thanks again!!! PS. the 2013 did not require any reset

KEY08

Awesome, and good luck with your other maintenance services.

ghlkal

Good work. And, smart choice going with the bigger battery

Left Coast Geek

the 49's are used with diesels mostly, and yes, going back at least to the mid 80s, Mercedes fit either size.

If you live in a mild climate, I wouldn't bother with a group 49, but if you live where it gets super cold, the extra CCA can help start on a coooold morning.

kajtek1

Bare in mind that bigger battery with capacity that you are not going to use is dead weight.

ghlkal

True. The bigger battery is probably 10 pounds heavier. But, for those of us in colder climates, it's worth it.

BenzV12

I would also buy the highest AMP possible

mrjetskey

i just figured if the battery tray was designed for a 49 size i would put it in was only $ 20 more than 48 with 250 more cranking amps and with all extras merc. has just figured it would be better but in hindsight it is overkill, i live in east tx.

pierrejoliat

I was surprised when Ghikal said it was ten pounds heavier and sure enough, at least 8.5 pounds more. I actually have more trouble with my Arizona based batteries than the Cleveland ones, but my wife's car sits outside at work in zero degrees for 10-12 hours some days, so I want the extra CCA's.

kajtek1

Should have buy diesel.
All my diesel engines (beside Ford T) start immediately and I think cigarette pack-sized booster battery would be all I need to start them. Even when I stored my black W212 for 2 years before AEM and sale, it did start on 1st turn after the long storage. Sprinter routinely sits 1/2 year without starting between seasons and no big CCA is needed.