Maintenance and Repairs: Do you prefer the dealership or an independently owned shop?
#1
Maintenance and Repairs: Do you prefer the dealership or an independently owned shop?
Hi all,
I was just curious on your thoughts about using the dealership for your maintenance or repair needs vs. an independent shop. Do you have strong feelings either way?
For my Honda and Infiniti I have always used a mix but I like using my independent shop because I feel like they are at experienced technicians that opened up their own shop and they might be a little more concerned with maintaining their customer base. What has your experience been with Mercedes? Do the dealerships generally use less experienced, younger technicians that are training?
Your thoughts are appreciated
I was just curious on your thoughts about using the dealership for your maintenance or repair needs vs. an independent shop. Do you have strong feelings either way?
For my Honda and Infiniti I have always used a mix but I like using my independent shop because I feel like they are at experienced technicians that opened up their own shop and they might be a little more concerned with maintaining their customer base. What has your experience been with Mercedes? Do the dealerships generally use less experienced, younger technicians that are training?
Your thoughts are appreciated
#2
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Joined: Aug 2004
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From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
During the warranty period, I wouldn't consider taking my Benz to anyone other than Mercedes for service. For me, that means if I keep my car 7 years, my car will only be serviced by Mercedes, because my warranty was extended to 7 years.
#3
Gotcha good point. When my car finally gets here I guess I'll do that at first since I have 3 dealerships to choose from with 20 minutes. However, afterwards I will need a long term solution as I am hoping to make it at least 10 years with this E 300.
Luckily, the ETA for the ship at the Baltimore port is 12/1, so if I am bored on Monday I may drive to the VPC to check it out (it meaning the VPC itself) since I am off and only about 30 minutes away.
Luckily, the ETA for the ship at the Baltimore port is 12/1, so if I am bored on Monday I may drive to the VPC to check it out (it meaning the VPC itself) since I am off and only about 30 minutes away.
#4
I totally agree. There are too many fly-by-night mechanics posing as trained/certificated mechanics to risk using other than a trained/certificated MB technician.
#5
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Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
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From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
Gotcha good point. When my car finally gets here I guess I'll do that at first since I have 3 dealerships to choose from with 20 minutes. However, afterwards I will need a long term solution as I am hoping to make it at least 10 years with this E 300.
Luckily, the ETA for the ship at the Baltimore port is 12/1, so if I am bored on Monday I may drive to the VPC to check it out (it meaning the VPC itself) since I am off and only about 30 minutes away.
Luckily, the ETA for the ship at the Baltimore port is 12/1, so if I am bored on Monday I may drive to the VPC to check it out (it meaning the VPC itself) since I am off and only about 30 minutes away.
It would be fun to be able to watch the cars coming off the ship. You have to be getting excited now!!
#6
Oh yeah. My excitement is through the roof. I can't focus on anything else, lol. That's why now all I can do is plan for the future.
I might have to resort to starting to prepare an SD card with music if I don't use my iPod.
I might have to resort to starting to prepare an SD card with music if I don't use my iPod.
#7
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Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
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From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
From what I've read, not done (I haven't owned an iPod for some time), iPod's don't play well with the Comand system. I'd go the SD card route if you want to have lot's of specific music you want to listen to. I'm a streamer and enjoy not knowing what the next song will be. With Sirius, Pandora and a couple others, I can stream enough music to keep me happy.
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#8
Another consideration might be that if you have a dealership you like dealing with for purchases, getting your car serviced with them sometimes works in your favor when negotiating the next purchase.
#10
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Joined: May 2018
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From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Just my $.02:
1) If you lease put the prepaid service into the lease as it is residualized. That way you can go any Mercedes dealer for service. If you are not leasing, there are service specials, for example my local dealer has service "A" at $199 and $50 off on service "B" and others have posted $100 to $150 coupons off on service, when service is over $300, which would cover "A" and "B". With specials and coupons I do not know if the prepaid service for 20,000 miles/2 years at $890 makes financial sense - but you should run the numbers first, before you decide to buy the prepaid service. My gut tells me that with coupons and specials, the prepaid service does not make sense - but again run the numbers. Also if you sell your car or trade it in before using the service you do not get a refund so that is money lost.
2) Service, at least here in the LI/NYC area, is separate and apart from sales. They are like two separate businesses. I buy from one dealer and I am welcomed with open arms by the service department of my local dealer - even with a loaner on warranty work. For normal "A" and "B" service I wait (no need for a loaner) as it takes less than 2 hours including the free car wash! After buying, all my contact with Mercedes is with the service not sales.
1) If you lease put the prepaid service into the lease as it is residualized. That way you can go any Mercedes dealer for service. If you are not leasing, there are service specials, for example my local dealer has service "A" at $199 and $50 off on service "B" and others have posted $100 to $150 coupons off on service, when service is over $300, which would cover "A" and "B". With specials and coupons I do not know if the prepaid service for 20,000 miles/2 years at $890 makes financial sense - but you should run the numbers first, before you decide to buy the prepaid service. My gut tells me that with coupons and specials, the prepaid service does not make sense - but again run the numbers. Also if you sell your car or trade it in before using the service you do not get a refund so that is money lost.
2) Service, at least here in the LI/NYC area, is separate and apart from sales. They are like two separate businesses. I buy from one dealer and I am welcomed with open arms by the service department of my local dealer - even with a loaner on warranty work. For normal "A" and "B" service I wait (no need for a loaner) as it takes less than 2 hours including the free car wash! After buying, all my contact with Mercedes is with the service not sales.
#11
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
Likes: 328
From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
Just my $.02:
1) If you lease put the prepaid service into the lease as it is residualized. That way you can go any Mercedes dealer for service. If you are not leasing, there are service specials, for example my local dealer has service "A" at $199 and $50 off on service "B" and others have posted $100 to $150 coupons off on service, when service is over $300, which would cover "A" and "B". With specials and coupons I do not know if the prepaid service for 20,000 miles/2 years at $890 makes financial sense - but you should run the numbers first, before you decide to buy the prepaid service. My gut tells me that with coupons and specials, the prepaid service does not make sense - but again run the numbers. Also if you sell your car or trade it in before using the service you do not get a refund so that is money lost.
2) Service, at least here in the LI/NYC area, is separate and apart from sales. They are like two separate businesses. I buy from one dealer and I am welcomed with open arms by the service department of my local dealer - even with a loaner on warranty work. For normal "A" and "B" service I wait (no need for a loaner) as it takes less than 2 hours including the free car wash! After buying, all my contact with Mercedes is with the service not sales.
1) If you lease put the prepaid service into the lease as it is residualized. That way you can go any Mercedes dealer for service. If you are not leasing, there are service specials, for example my local dealer has service "A" at $199 and $50 off on service "B" and others have posted $100 to $150 coupons off on service, when service is over $300, which would cover "A" and "B". With specials and coupons I do not know if the prepaid service for 20,000 miles/2 years at $890 makes financial sense - but you should run the numbers first, before you decide to buy the prepaid service. My gut tells me that with coupons and specials, the prepaid service does not make sense - but again run the numbers. Also if you sell your car or trade it in before using the service you do not get a refund so that is money lost.
2) Service, at least here in the LI/NYC area, is separate and apart from sales. They are like two separate businesses. I buy from one dealer and I am welcomed with open arms by the service department of my local dealer - even with a loaner on warranty work. For normal "A" and "B" service I wait (no need for a loaner) as it takes less than 2 hours including the free car wash! After buying, all my contact with Mercedes is with the service not sales.
#12
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Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,139
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From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Rod:
Your experience may be unique: you buy many, many cars, and from what you have posted, from the same dealer, and if my memory is correct the 2018 E300 you traded in was less than 90 days old and had less than 1,000 miles.
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
But this begs the question as whether considering the coupons and specials from dealers, is it to Courthaven's financial advantage to buy the prepaid service or use coupons and specials - Courthaven must run the numbers and decide.
Your experience may be unique: you buy many, many cars, and from what you have posted, from the same dealer, and if my memory is correct the 2018 E300 you traded in was less than 90 days old and had less than 1,000 miles.
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
But this begs the question as whether considering the coupons and specials from dealers, is it to Courthaven's financial advantage to buy the prepaid service or use coupons and specials - Courthaven must run the numbers and decide.
#13
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
Likes: 328
From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
Rod:
Your experience may be unique: you buy many, many cars, and from what you have posted, from the same dealer, and if my memory is correct the 2018 E300 you traded in was less than 90 days old and had less than 1,000 miles.
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
But this begs the question as whether considering the coupons and specials from dealers, is it to Courthaven's financial advantage to buy the prepaid service or use coupons and specials - Courthaven must run the numbers and decide.
Your experience may be unique: you buy many, many cars, and from what you have posted, from the same dealer, and if my memory is correct the 2018 E300 you traded in was less than 90 days old and had less than 1,000 miles.
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
But this begs the question as whether considering the coupons and specials from dealers, is it to Courthaven's financial advantage to buy the prepaid service or use coupons and specials - Courthaven must run the numbers and decide.
Yes, the E300 was way less than 90 days old. But we traded our 2016 C300 and 2016 GLC in on the 2018 E300/E400 and we got refunds for the unused portion of the pre-paid maintenance and wheel/tire insurance for both 2016s. We also had extended warranties on both of those cars. I purchased those policies from a dealer in California because they aren't regulated like they are in Florida and I could get a huge discount from what I'd have to pay in Florida. I got 100% of the cost of the extended warranty back from both cars as well from the dealer in California.
#14
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Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,139
Likes: 609
From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Rod:
No reason to be sorry!
If the prepaid service can in fact be transferred that is a plus and I have learned something. (although as I lease and I put the prepaid service into the lease so that it is residualized, I doubt I will get back any portion or the service that is not used!)
Whether it makes financial sense to buy prepaid service vs. using coupons and dealer specials is up to each individual.
While my car is under warranty, the only service I would permit someone other than Mercedes to do is the "A" service which is oil, filter and wiper blades + complimentary car wash, coffee and donuts!. However, I personally still plan to use Mercedes service while the car is under warranty, even if it cost more, because while the car is there for service, the car is checked for any recalls or updates, something only a Mercedes dealer can do. Also if something is broken, as the car is under warranty, it will be taken care of at no cost.
No reason to be sorry!
If the prepaid service can in fact be transferred that is a plus and I have learned something. (although as I lease and I put the prepaid service into the lease so that it is residualized, I doubt I will get back any portion or the service that is not used!)
Whether it makes financial sense to buy prepaid service vs. using coupons and dealer specials is up to each individual.
While my car is under warranty, the only service I would permit someone other than Mercedes to do is the "A" service which is oil, filter and wiper blades + complimentary car wash, coffee and donuts!. However, I personally still plan to use Mercedes service while the car is under warranty, even if it cost more, because while the car is there for service, the car is checked for any recalls or updates, something only a Mercedes dealer can do. Also if something is broken, as the car is under warranty, it will be taken care of at no cost.
#15
Good point about checking for recalls and updates and everything. I do intend to do my normal maintenances at MB the first few years, since it does make sense to go there during the warranty period.
Does anyone had any strong thoughts or good or bad experiences on using other places after the warranty period?
Actually my mom has an S500 and is trying out a place in Westminister, MD today called Mercedes Specialists that I told her about from a post on here. We'll see how that goes. Also, both her and a coworker used a guy that has his own shop and both found out that he wasn't using factory parts on his repairs. Hopefully others have had some more positive experiences from their independent shop ventures.
Does anyone had any strong thoughts or good or bad experiences on using other places after the warranty period?
Actually my mom has an S500 and is trying out a place in Westminister, MD today called Mercedes Specialists that I told her about from a post on here. We'll see how that goes. Also, both her and a coworker used a guy that has his own shop and both found out that he wasn't using factory parts on his repairs. Hopefully others have had some more positive experiences from their independent shop ventures.
#16
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
Likes: 328
From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
Rod:
No reason to be sorry!
If the prepaid service can in fact be transferred that is a plus and I have learned something. (although as I lease and I put the prepaid service into the lease so that it is residualized, I doubt I will get back any portion or the service that is not used!)
Whether it makes financial sense to buy prepaid service vs. using coupons and dealer specials is up to each individual.
While my car is under warranty, the only service I would permit someone other than Mercedes to do is the "A" service which is oil, filter and wiper blades + complimentary car wash, coffee and donuts!. However, I personally still plan to use Mercedes service while the car is under warranty, even if it cost more, because while the car is there for service, the car is checked for any recalls or updates, something only a Mercedes dealer can do. Also if something is broken, as the car is under warranty, it will be taken care of at no cost.
No reason to be sorry!
If the prepaid service can in fact be transferred that is a plus and I have learned something. (although as I lease and I put the prepaid service into the lease so that it is residualized, I doubt I will get back any portion or the service that is not used!)
Whether it makes financial sense to buy prepaid service vs. using coupons and dealer specials is up to each individual.
While my car is under warranty, the only service I would permit someone other than Mercedes to do is the "A" service which is oil, filter and wiper blades + complimentary car wash, coffee and donuts!. However, I personally still plan to use Mercedes service while the car is under warranty, even if it cost more, because while the car is there for service, the car is checked for any recalls or updates, something only a Mercedes dealer can do. Also if something is broken, as the car is under warranty, it will be taken care of at no cost.
#17
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,139
Likes: 609
From: Long Island, NY
2019 E 450, 2016 E350 4matic (retired), 2018 Ford Edge Sport, 2008 Porsche Boxster
Rod:
As he should! You are "one in a million" - most of us do not buy as many Mercedes in 10 years as you and your partner seem to be buy in 1 or 2 years! I bet the next time you want a new Mercedes, if you call him up and ask, he will send a limo to pick you and your partner up!
Courthaven: sorry to hear about the experience where the outside mechanic did not use genuine MB parts. It is one thing to use non OEM parts on a 5 year old Ford for example and entirely another thing on a 5 year old Mercedes that still has substantial value!
Just one last point: As has been posted, if your Mercedes is still under warranty there are available extended warranties through Mercedes: Here is the catch: If during the warranty period you had not many or any issues, then an extended warranty may not be necessary. On the other had If you have had issues, then probably better to get rid of it - rather than keep a car, that has given you problems, even with an extended warranty. .
As he should! You are "one in a million" - most of us do not buy as many Mercedes in 10 years as you and your partner seem to be buy in 1 or 2 years! I bet the next time you want a new Mercedes, if you call him up and ask, he will send a limo to pick you and your partner up!
Courthaven: sorry to hear about the experience where the outside mechanic did not use genuine MB parts. It is one thing to use non OEM parts on a 5 year old Ford for example and entirely another thing on a 5 year old Mercedes that still has substantial value!
Just one last point: As has been posted, if your Mercedes is still under warranty there are available extended warranties through Mercedes: Here is the catch: If during the warranty period you had not many or any issues, then an extended warranty may not be necessary. On the other had If you have had issues, then probably better to get rid of it - rather than keep a car, that has given you problems, even with an extended warranty. .
#18
Oh well for me I haven't had any problems yet. My first Mercedes is still on the ship heading to the Baltimore VPC, aw yeah!!
It was mom that had the aftermarket parts experience about a year ago, I was just asking to get opinions for my future I guess. Thanks a lot for your input though.
It was mom that had the aftermarket parts experience about a year ago, I was just asking to get opinions for my future I guess. Thanks a lot for your input though.
#19
My MB service department has a display showing the differences between genuine MB consumable parts and aftermarket consumable parts. These include brake pads, air filters, oil filters and wiper blades. The differences are significant.
#20
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,447
Likes: 328
From: Tampa, FL
2019 E450 4Matic & 2018 E400 4Matic
Rod:
As he should! You are "one in a million" - most of us do not buy as many Mercedes in 10 years as you and your partner seem to be buy in 1 or 2 years! I bet the next time you want a new Mercedes, if you call him up and ask, he will send a limo to pick you and your partner up!
Courthaven: sorry to hear about the experience where the outside mechanic did not use genuine MB parts. It is one thing to use non OEM parts on a 5 year old Ford for example and entirely another thing on a 5 year old Mercedes that still has substantial value!
Just one last point: As has been posted, if your Mercedes is still under warranty there are available extended warranties through Mercedes: Here is the catch: If during the warranty period you had not many or any issues, then an extended warranty may not be necessary. On the other had If you have had issues, then probably better to get rid of it - rather than keep a car, that has given you problems, even with an extended warranty. .
As he should! You are "one in a million" - most of us do not buy as many Mercedes in 10 years as you and your partner seem to be buy in 1 or 2 years! I bet the next time you want a new Mercedes, if you call him up and ask, he will send a limo to pick you and your partner up!
Courthaven: sorry to hear about the experience where the outside mechanic did not use genuine MB parts. It is one thing to use non OEM parts on a 5 year old Ford for example and entirely another thing on a 5 year old Mercedes that still has substantial value!
Just one last point: As has been posted, if your Mercedes is still under warranty there are available extended warranties through Mercedes: Here is the catch: If during the warranty period you had not many or any issues, then an extended warranty may not be necessary. On the other had If you have had issues, then probably better to get rid of it - rather than keep a car, that has given you problems, even with an extended warranty. .
#21
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 446
Likes: 56
EQC 4matic AMG line Premium Plus replacing S213 220d 4matic with airmatic
I always use my dealership with whom i have a very good relationship. I live in rural france and whilst every other village seems to have a citroen or renault (mainly citroen in my region) garage mercedes dealerships are only to be found in the county towns or larger cities.
As the mercs age and move into the secondhand market the local garage will do the repairs and there are loads of w210 e class still being used.
The uk has quite a few independants set up by ex mercedes dealership staff which are able to register services carried out etc under eu law thereby keeping the full warranty and electronic service record going.mobilo is not valid anymore though.
For me it is a no brainer to use the dealership they are the supplier and have direct links to mercedes if they hit a difficult problem. Plus they are a great bunch of people.
As the mercs age and move into the secondhand market the local garage will do the repairs and there are loads of w210 e class still being used.
The uk has quite a few independants set up by ex mercedes dealership staff which are able to register services carried out etc under eu law thereby keeping the full warranty and electronic service record going.mobilo is not valid anymore though.
For me it is a no brainer to use the dealership they are the supplier and have direct links to mercedes if they hit a difficult problem. Plus they are a great bunch of people.
#22
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,582
Likes: 145
From: Southeastern USA
2010 E350 Luxury Sedan, Engine 272 (V6)
I prefer the dealers even on cars I have had for ten years. This includes Nissan, Toyota, Ford, etc. and M-B. Have had bad experiences with independents, even the most highly recommended. Dealership costs more, but they have the best trained technicians and access to the manufacturers computer and other systems for TSB's, recalls and other information.
Dealerships are also more likely to go to bat for you if you get into a situation re: warranty dispute or out of warranty problem.
As for M-B, if you can afford the car, why can't you afford the best service? Not saying to make sure dealership is not overcharging, but I have seldom had that problem. You have to know what your car needs and limit it to that.
Actually, my M-B dealer for last 9 years has never tried to sell me extra services and has often advised to delay a service (transmission, air filters, brakes, etc.) due to low mileage.
Dealerships are also more likely to go to bat for you if you get into a situation re: warranty dispute or out of warranty problem.
As for M-B, if you can afford the car, why can't you afford the best service? Not saying to make sure dealership is not overcharging, but I have seldom had that problem. You have to know what your car needs and limit it to that.
Actually, my M-B dealer for last 9 years has never tried to sell me extra services and has often advised to delay a service (transmission, air filters, brakes, etc.) due to low mileage.
#23
Rod:
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
When I go for service my service adviser puts in my VIN, the prepaid service automatically pops up - the prepaid service is attached to my car through the VIN. As far as I know, the prepaid service is part of the car, and is not transferable.
Has anyone else been able to transfer the prepaid service?
Yes. I made it part of the deal I made one year ago. The dealer, who I also bought the previous car from, complied without any argument.