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I’m new to the forum, and I’ve searched threads on the topic, but there just doesn’t seem to be any confirmation on actual practice. Forgive me if there’s a definitive guide somewhere that I’ve missed.
I am grateful to be driving a 2020 GLC300 4Matic (got it off a 3-year, dealer maintained lease). It was serviced when I received it at 14,000 miles, and less than 6 months later I’m at 24,000 miles. Did not expect to have driven it this much, but circumstances dictated it. My financial situation is such that I cannot afford what I’ve found to be standard local dealer costs for something like a Service B (estimated in the northern NJ area to be around $850 without additional parts, labor if they find anything on their inspections).
Primarily (QUESTION 1), I need advice from you DIY pros on motor oil and viscosity since (1) there doesn’t seem to be a consensus on the DIY YouTube videos and (2) even their dealer videos don’t specify.
Of course the engine oil filler cap only says “Use Mercedes-Benz Motor Oil” which is just so self-serving. But my manual states the below:
And, some YouTube DIY videos have used 0W-30 or 0W-40 grades.
But, Mercedes-Benz of Littleton, CO has a DIY post that states Mobil 1 ESP X2 at 0W-20 (link here). That oil has a specification of 229.71, which is the asterisked spec in my manual above (to me that means it’s seemingly the not usual suggested type).
Can anyone provide some advice on what they’ve used and what works best for the 2L, in-line 4 cylinder turbo that is the GLC300 4Matic?
Also (QUESTION 2): do I need to do a brake fluid fill as part of Service B?
Question 2 - brake fluid flush is recommended every two years, and it's not mileage related.
You can skip that for now, but it should be done regularly.
I'll go out on a limb here, but the dry climate in Colorado introduces less moisture into the brake fluid, so it's less critical. But if you omit the service and need a warranty brake repair, you may be out of luck.
Follow on to your whole question:
Ask the Littleton dealer if there are any Service coupons - they have them periodically. Check their website first.
Also ask if there is a "B service light," that does only the minimal amount to keep your warranty intact.
I’m new to the forum, and I’ve searched threads on the topic, but there just doesn’t seem to be any confirmation on actual practice. Forgive me if there’s a definitive guide somewhere that I’ve missed.
I am grateful to be driving a 2020 GLC300 4Matic (got it off a 3-year, dealer maintained lease). It was serviced when I received it at 14,000 miles, and less than 6 months later I’m at 24,000 miles. Did not expect to have driven it this much, but circumstances dictated it. My financial situation is such that I cannot afford what I’ve found to be standard local dealer costs for something like a Service B (estimated in the northern NJ area to be around $850 without additional parts, labor if they find anything on their inspections).
Primarily (QUESTION 1), I need advice from you DIY pros on motor oil and viscosity since (1) there doesn’t seem to be a consensus on the DIY YouTube videos and (2) even their dealer videos don’t specify.
Of course the engine oil filler cap only says “Use Mercedes-Benz Motor Oil” which is just so self-serving. But my manual states the below:
And, some YouTube DIY videos have used 0W-30 or 0W-40 grades.
But, Mercedes-Benz of Littleton, CO has a DIY post that states Mobil 1 ESP X2 at 0W-20 (link here). That oil has a specification of 229.71, which is the asterisked spec in my manual above (to me that means it’s seemingly the not usual suggested type).
Can anyone provide some advice on what they’ve used and what works best for the 2L, in-line 4 cylinder turbo that is the GLC300 4Matic?
Also (QUESTION 2): do I need to do a brake fluid fill as part of Service B?
Thanks in advance!
I use 5w-40 oil 229.52 spec, usually Castrol, Pennzoil or Liqui Moly but with API SP to fight LSPI.
Using this testers to check fluid quality
Aicevoos NF Brake Fluid Tester...
Most of the synthetic oil brands that have labels stating European blend carry the 229.5 approval. The Walmart near me now carries Mobil1 0W-30 Euro with the 229.51/52 approval. I've been using Castrol Euro 5W-30 229.5 and change the oil and filter every 5K miles. DIY A and B services can save you big bucks.
FCPEURO and others sell OIl change kits.
Oil, filter, drain seal ...
Not a bad price and if you are so inclined the next time if you buy the same thing you can get your money back on the original price by sending back the oil and old filter etc....
have to package and ship a certain way but you save money the next time.
I purchased one of these mostly out of curiosity. They work by measuring the electrical conductivity of brake fluid, which increases with moisture content. I found that it could differentiate new fluid from pure water, but its accuracy measuring 1%, 2%, and 3% water content was not so good. For the cost and confidence, it's easier just to flush and replace.
2025 AMG E 53; 2018 GLC300 4Matic; 2003 360 Modena
I just did this exact service... (2018 MY, same engine as your 2020)
1. Oil change using Mobil 1 5w-40 SP/SN+ per MB operating fluids website (Walmart ~$35). Mann filter (OEM Supplier) ~$9 from various sources.
2. Tire rotation (free)
3. Brake fluid flush (2 liters Pentosin Super Dot 4) ~$15ea. ( I like to push 500ml per corner )
Total: $75.00. DIY feeling that it's done right: Priceless.
Thanks for all the replies, @kjb55 , @dandd , @tarponbeach , @streborx , @ygmn , @mikapen . Super helpful! And I’ve learned quite a bit already.
I’m a bit curious that all of you have been using 5w-30 or 5w-40.
Why would the Littleton, CO dealership be recommending 0W-20 with the Mobil 1 oil that is spec 229.71 as opposed to something that’s the other spec 229.51, .52, or even .61? Is it because they’re in the higher altitude of CO?
I just love the absolute zero guidance on the official MB manuals or filler cap (“Use Mercedes-Benz Oil”), and without even indicating the recommended viscosity.
Btw, you all are not the first I’ve read in these forums already about warranty issues if you don’t adhere to the recommended (read: required) maintenance schedule. How do you prove maintenance when doing it all yourself?
Thanks for all the replies, @kjb55 , @dandd , @tarponbeach , @streborx , @ygmn , @mikapen . Super helpful! And I’ve learned quite a bit already.
.... How do you prove maintenance when doing it all yourself?
Dated Receipts of oil and filter.
And I would write mileage on them at the time.
I keep all my receipts as well as a comprehensive record of everything I do, whether scheduled or not. I use the attached forms, which I think rival anything the dealer is going to provide you. I also run periodic OBDII scans and keep copies of the reports.
Regarding service records and warranty - I think it's a good idea to touch base with the service manager, to make sure your records are acceptable.
Partly to make sure your records are acceptable, but it's also good to have an in-person contact. If something comes up you can always say "We talked last July and... "
Regarding service records and warranty - I think it's a good idea to touch base with the service manager, to make sure your records are acceptable.
Partly to make sure your records are acceptable, but it's also good to have an in-person contact. If something comes up you can always say "We talked last July and... "
You need to get SA statement in writing, im sure you wont get it.
They usually saying it must be serviced by certify tech. And when you bring fed law about maintenance requirements they usually saying need to double check and newer comes back to you. My past experience.
Unless you're writing checks regularly to the dealer's service department, I think they have little time or use for DIY'ers. They don't even want to do my NHTSA recalls 'cause I'm not a "regular". When an owner takes the time and effort to do his/her own periodic maintenance, and to keep receipts and records, it says much about how well the car has been cared for. In the present economy with food, fuel and housing prices skyrocketing, there are many car owners (of all brands) finding other uses for their money than dumping a couple $K at a dealer's service department.
You need to get SA statement in writing, im sure you wont get it.
They usually saying it must be serviced by certify tech. And when you bring fed law about maintenance requirements they usually saying need to double check and newer comes back to you. My past experience.
Of course they won't write a legal opinion, if that's what you want.
It's already codified, so all you need to do is make sure the receipts you will show them are sufficient, or should you write a note describing what you did.
It just saves time in the future.
I write myself an invoice, both to streamline warranty compliance, and for my own records. Tread depths, observations etc.
They can also add value if a buyer appreciates "Books and Records."
Of course they won't write a legal opinion, if that's what you want.
It's already codified, so all you need to do is make sure the receipts you will show them are sufficient, or should you write a note describing what you did.
It just saves time in the future.
I write myself an invoice, both to streamline warranty compliance, and for my own records. Tread depths, observations etc.
They can also add value if a buyer appreciates "Books and Records."
when create a service record, image of receipt goes to gdrive an link into the Notes.
id syncs data between multiple devices and you can have multiple cars.
i like the the statistic tab the most.
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DIY Maintenance: Oil Change & Service B
