SL/R231: Leaky Valve cover gaskets
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 154
Likes: 36
From: East Hampton NY
GLC300/GLC300C4
Leaky Valve cover gaskets
It all started with the PRE SAFE feature malfunctioning causing all sorts of error messgaes popping up related the lane keep assist and blind spot being inoperative when the PRE SAFE was enabled an error message would come up relating to the ABS and traction control and the car would not go over 5mph when I disabled the PRE SAFE everything reset and I could drive it to the dealer. I get the call from Mercedes Benz of Palm Beach the speed sensors in the front wheels need to be replaced that would solve all those issues $900 I can live with that. Then the service advisor proceeds to tell me my valve cover gaskets need to be replaced there is oil drips down the sides of the engine now I never noticed oil on my garage floor but he says that repair is $3700 which blew me away I'm thinking how many labor hours could there be in replacing 2 valve cover gaskets am I missing something is this a lot more complex than it sounds ?
Ed
Ed
Member
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 94
Likes: 19
From: Raleigh, NC
2015 SL550
It all started with the PRE SAFE feature malfunctioning causing all sorts of error messgaes popping up related the lane keep assist and blind spot being inoperative when the PRE SAFE was enabled an error message would come up relating to the ABS and traction control and the car would not go over 5mph when I disabled the PRE SAFE everything reset and I could drive it to the dealer. I get the call from Mercedes Benz of Palm Beach the speed sensors in the front wheels need to be replaced that would solve all those issues $900 I can live with that. Then the service advisor proceeds to tell me my valve cover gaskets need to be replaced there is oil drips down the sides of the engine now I never noticed oil on my garage floor but he says that repair is $3700 which blew me away I'm thinking how many labor hours could there be in replacing 2 valve cover gaskets am I missing something is this a lot more complex than it sounds ?
Ed
Ed
I have a 2015 SL550 with the same valve cover gasket issue. Got a couple quotes from two local mercedes repair shops for $1100-$1300. You're definitely overpaying at the dealership.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 503
Likes: 95
From: Miami Beach
2006 CLS55 AMG Sold 2010 E550 Coupe totaled by mechanic, '13 SL550 I totaled it, 2017 SL63 current
You need to find an Independent Mechanic. Speed Sensors should cost a couple hundred, $900 is absurd. Valve cover gaskets should be $1000-1500, you are getting bent over in a big way.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,022
Likes: 231
From: In the minds of others rent free.
SL 400
That is an average quote for MB. I had mine done a while ago under warranty. Many SL owners have experienced those leaks, but not all. Like you I had no leaks on the ground due to the small amount, however small amounts turn into big amounts if not resolved. Be it from MB, or an indy be sure to get the issues repaired.
Then the service advisor proceeds to tell me my valve cover gaskets need to be replaced there is oil drips down the sides of the engine now I never noticed oil on my garage floor but he says that repair is $3700 which blew me away I'm thinking how many labor hours could there be in replacing 2 valve cover gaskets am I missing something is this a lot more complex than it sounds ?
