Joey6

I am attempting to perform a little maintenance on my 1999 S500 and at the same time attempting to save a little money. I would like to change the cabin air filters and the charcoal filter for it, but... where are they? I know they exist since it is recommended that they be changed at 12K miles and 40K miles respectively. Can you believe that the charcoal filter is $141.00?? Incredible, isn't it! I bet that if the dealer were to change it, they would charge you an additional 35.00 to do it. Get my drift? Can anyone help me on these items?? Preferably with diagrams?

By the way, are there paper shop manuals from MB on this car? I know that I can buy a CD for it. But these are usually not very helpful. Can you guys let me know if they are available for the S500??

Thanks.-

Mercedes Tuner

This is not a very difficult thing to replace. Its been a while since I have done one, but I believe all you need is a Philips Head screwdriver.

Open the hood. There will be a large plastic sorta Rectangle cover on the firewall from the passengers side. I believe there are about 6 screws holding it down, and either an electrical connector, or vacuum connector on it.

All you need to do is remove the screws, lift up on the panel a little, and the filter is under that panel. Take the filter out, replace it, then reinstall the panel and you are done. Just make sure you install the cover correctly or else you could have a water leak in the car when it rains.

The whole process should take about 10 minutes or less.

mleskovar

Are you sure??? There are two filters for the cabin air. One is under the hood, and one is a canister under the dash.

Mercedes Tuner

We are talking about a W140 right? Like I said before, its been a while since I actually have replaced one, I only remember ever replacing the one filter under the hood.

Where is the one under the dash?

mleskovar

Ooops, my bad. I was thinking w203.

Joey6

Thanks for your replies!

If I understand this right, there's only one filter within the engine compartment and none under the dashboard?? I did see the box for the charcoal filter, and I am about to go check it out.

What about K&N filters - what are your guy's opinions? Are they worth it??

Thanks, again.-

Mercedes Tuner

Yep, for the W140 there is only 1 cabin filter, which is under the panel inside the engine compartment.

I believe that K&N filters do make a difference and are better. I have them in all of my cars, and have noticed a difference in each car, some more then others. Even if it doesn't help, it will save you money in the long run since you never have to replace it again.

Joey6

Thanks, M Tuner.