gotthebenz?

Recently Purchased 2004 SL w/ 58000 miles

Car is supposed to (and does look like) it had 2 front struts replaced within the last couple years or 10k miles. I just did an ABC Fluid/Filter flush on the car. The fluid was pretty dark dirty looking, but is all clean and fresh now.

1. Would the Mercedes dealership always flush the ABC fluid when performing a new strut install?

2. Would the fluid being dark or dirty mean that my accumulator(s) are worn/bad?

If yes on question 2, I'd like to replace both of them for peace of mind/reliability factor. Suspension works as it should raises and lowers normally and drives great. If anyone has replaced their accumulators and know about how long they lasted that would be a great tip. Thanks for your help in advance.

fxrs1955

I replaced my rear one at 77k on my previous SL because it was bad and decided to replace the front one also and flush the system. There's a DIY article on the forum, follow it and you won't have any problems.

next2pool

What are the symptoms of a failed accumulator?

fxrs1955

When I went over any decent bumps the dash would momentarily turn red and the abc light would come on, just for a few seconds. someone in these forums said to push both ends of the car and if the rebound isn't there then it's the accumulator. I replaced the rear one and the problem went away, I replaced the front one because it wasn't that difficult.

BlownV8

1. Not unless the owner specified they flush and refill. According to MB the fluid is good for life.

2. Not necessarily. Doing to flush and fill was a good idea.