Question,

I have a 2000 Ml320, it is due to service in 500 miles, the warranty has run out, how much should i expect to pay for an 'A' service, one wrench is showing? Does the Dealer have to do it?

Thank you

 

If I remember correctly, A is just a minor service (oil change, filters, check over everything)...but that doesn't mean it runs cheap. From the dealer, service "A" may run around $200. Service "B" can run $400+ I think (atleast my service did).

 

Thanks for the reply.......................is the dealer the only one that can perform an A or B reply, or can any mechanic do it?

 

If you go to like a garage, they may not have the tools (computers, actual tools for some parts on MB's) to do the job right. And they can't reset the computer on the cluster (most places can't).

What would be a good idea is either the stealership or find a independent MB mechanic who knows what he's doing.

 

My 2000 ML320 also expired a couple of weeks ago so I asked the same question to a local German garage; they only do MB and BMW. I recall the mechanic saying that they could do an A service for $200 less since that was only an filter/oil changed and they could reset the console because they have the tool. I even asked him if that required a tune-up and he said that the system monitors itself and reports problems; so tune-up wasn't necessary for A service which makes me think that I could do it myself but I won't be able reset the indicator. He did mention that B service is could be between $300-$400. This garage charges $75/hr while dealer charge $98/hr.

I hope ML God will read this so he can itemize work being done at A & B services.

TIA

 

He is right between the differences between service A & B. A is the single wrench, which is the minor service. "B" is the major service, which esscentially is a "tune-up" with more parts replaced.

$75 is not bad for a independent. Better than the dealer anyhow. My independent MB dealer charges $60/hour.

 

FYI , your owners manual tells you how to reset the computer yourself.

 

If your independent told you he has the tool to reset the service indicator I would stay away from him. There is no tool necessary, just read the instructions in your manual.

 

who is ur mb mechanic, i might start using him for the ML.

 

I just got my B service yesterday, I was going to let a local mechanic do it...........but it seemed he didnt really know what is he doing when asked me "do you feel the engine needs a tune up?", so i opted for the dealership, it wasnt too bad, they gave me a discount, they also did the state inspection for me, it all added up to $368..........it is a payment, but i know the dealer did it......more reliable.........I would suggest to let the dealership take care of it.........................

 

It's just a oil change, with a quick inspect of the car.

And if you wnat to reset the fss:

-Make sure the drivers door is closed
-The key is turn on with the engine off
-Push the black button the left in the insturment cluster twice quickley, release.
-Quickley turn off the key and press and hold the same black button and hold
-And turn the key back on.
-Hold the button until it changes.(Takes a few seconds)

If it dosen't work the first time try again.

Brian

 

Hey Ali,
I use "Hatch & Sons" in Wayland. The SA's name is Ed Owen, pretty nice guy, up front with you and all that good stuff.

Their website is "www.hatchandsons.com". They have a c36 for sale on the lot...i know you were looking at a c43 last year. '95 with 62k miles on it. Black, very nice condition!

Let me know if you go there.

 

This came off a dealer's website and an experienced mechanic should be able to do them for a fraction of what MB would charge.

Flexible Service System - A-Service

- Change your vehicle's engine oil and filter
- Replace the dust filter in all SLK, CLK, C-Class and E-Class models
- Ensure the warning and indicator lamps, horn, windshield/headlamp
wiper and washer systems, and seat belts are functioning correctly
- Inspect tires and check tire pressure (including spare)
- Inspect brake pad thickness and disc condition
- Check and correct all fluid levels
- Reset your vehicle's FSS counter


Flexible Service System - B-Service

- Change your vehicle's engine oil and filter
- Replace the dust filter in all SLK, CLK, C-Class and E-Class models,
and in S-Class and SL-Class models without the active charcoal filter
- Replace windshield wiper inserts
- Inspect and rotate tires
- Lubricate and inspect throttle linkage
- Ensure the parking brake, steering play, headlamps and exterior lamps,
warning and indicator lamps, horn, windshield/headlamp wiper and washer
systems, seat belts, and backrest lock (S-Class only) are functioning correctly
- Inspect tires and check tire pressure (including spare)
- Inspect brake pad thickness and disc condition
- Inspect front axle ball joints and Poly-V-belt
- Check and correct all fluid levels
- Reset your vehicle's FSS counter