If you can't afford it, don't drive it!
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 992
Likes: 11
From: Illinois
GL550, C55, 335i Coupe, vintage Mustang
If you can't afford it, don't drive it!
Just a small rant, but really, we are all adults here.
If you think $200 is too much for a key, don't drive a Mercedes. Same with $110 floormats. Really, don't feel like you are being ripped off everytime you go to the dealer. Remember, if you have a serious problem, who are you going to call. If you spend money, it's just like the Bellagio, you will be taken care of. Otherwise, it is a room that anyone can buy for a weekend. If you need to feel better, call a Rolls dealer and ask about mats for a Phantom, I bet you would cry when they give you a price. But don't be so downright cheap that you can't reasonably see that a key with a built in remote and a new blade(since it is a new style) is $200. If you must, then please don't complain about your car if or when it breaks.
If you think $200 is too much for a key, don't drive a Mercedes. Same with $110 floormats. Really, don't feel like you are being ripped off everytime you go to the dealer. Remember, if you have a serious problem, who are you going to call. If you spend money, it's just like the Bellagio, you will be taken care of. Otherwise, it is a room that anyone can buy for a weekend. If you need to feel better, call a Rolls dealer and ask about mats for a Phantom, I bet you would cry when they give you a price. But don't be so downright cheap that you can't reasonably see that a key with a built in remote and a new blade(since it is a new style) is $200. If you must, then please don't complain about your car if or when it breaks.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 992
Likes: 11
From: Illinois
GL550, C55, 335i Coupe, vintage Mustang
Where are you going to take that $175 key when it doesn't work, if you didn't by it from the dealer? All to save a night at the movies, minus popcorn and sodas.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 28,933
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A friend (who owns a dealership) tells me his parts department is a cash cow. I wonder why...
Huge markup on parts, where else are you going to source them from?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,137
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
06 CLS55 w/ P030, 05 Jag S Type R, 05 TBird-68 Dodge Charger R/T-440 w/4speed I'm original owner
Or even better, do you shop price for heart surgery?
I think the point is made.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 28,933
Likes: 12
Find the part number of the key and search MBWorld or Google/Froogle. I promise you that you can find the key cheaper.
Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 219
Likes: 0
From: Queens NY
08 CLK63 BS
The way I see it, paying $200 for a new key is kinda like paying your taxes. You really get nothing out of it other than the an opportunity to complain about the fact that you got ripped off.
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Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 28,933
Likes: 12
Here you go:
You'll need to send a copy of your drivers license and VIN to whoever dealer you order these from I believe
From this thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...&highlight=key
Those are the part numbers for the respective parts.
Post #63 says he could get the parts for $143
#79 says ~$150
The guys here https://mbworld.org/forums/c36-amg-c43-amg-w202/176063-so-i-really-liked-new-mbz-keys.html
are regularly saying 150$ or under.
To get these links, I searched for "key" in only titles.
What are you going to do with your saved 50$? I'm going to spend it on chocolate.
You'll need to send a copy of your drivers license and VIN to whoever dealer you order these from I believe
From this thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...&highlight=key
Smartkey - 211-766-36-06
Blade - 203-766-50-06
Blade - 203-766-50-06
Post #63 says he could get the parts for $143
#79 says ~$150
The guys here https://mbworld.org/forums/c36-amg-c43-amg-w202/176063-so-i-really-liked-new-mbz-keys.html
are regularly saying 150$ or under.
To get these links, I searched for "key" in only titles.
What are you going to do with your saved 50$? I'm going to spend it on chocolate.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 4,929
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From: Tampa, Florida
06 SL65 / 97 993tt /11 Suburban/ 2012 GTR (AMG è la mia Famiglia la Bestia è la mia protezione)
Also from experience, MB dealerships only seem to replace parts rather than actually fix problems. They look at there sheet indicating how many hours to replace a part and boom that is the price to play.
Repair Dilemma
https://mbworld.org/forums/mercedes-tech-talk/118543-little-advice-repair.html
Bottomline...If I can find a "surgeon" that is equally qualified, equipped, trusted, and my out of pocket expense is less, then I'm going with them. If you deem this type of ratonale as unworthy of ownership, so be it...the money I saved could buy me more goodies for the MB.
Member
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 176
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From: Bay Area
Merc
I paid $114 for my key, the dealer wanted $185.
Repaired water pump and other parts at the dealer. Price quote for pump was reasonable enough-I just wanted my car fixed. I should have asked how much for coolant $60. But get this, I had bought coolant during another occasion and it was around $30. I just laughed and went on with my life because I already knew it was coming. That was their last chance, too many f`ups
Repaired water pump and other parts at the dealer. Price quote for pump was reasonable enough-I just wanted my car fixed. I should have asked how much for coolant $60. But get this, I had bought coolant during another occasion and it was around $30. I just laughed and went on with my life because I already knew it was coming. That was their last chance, too many f`ups
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,117
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From: Brisbane, Australia
2003 E55
[QUOTE=m_berman;2389736]
Or even better, do you shop price for heart surgery?
QUOTE]
You clearly have absolutely no idea about medicine, reputation and cost of service. They are uncorrelated. This is more true in the USA (where I have worked and lived) than anywhere else I've experienced.
In fact, you've now made me even more concerned that I'm paying MB for some nedulous concept of 'prestige' or 'quality' which may or may not be real.
Sometimes its best just to pay up and acknowledge that its the way things are.
Or even better, do you shop price for heart surgery?
QUOTE]
You clearly have absolutely no idea about medicine, reputation and cost of service. They are uncorrelated. This is more true in the USA (where I have worked and lived) than anywhere else I've experienced.
In fact, you've now made me even more concerned that I'm paying MB for some nedulous concept of 'prestige' or 'quality' which may or may not be real.
Sometimes its best just to pay up and acknowledge that its the way things are.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 4,781
Likes: 3
From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
I love reading these posts about "if you can't afford it, don't buy or drive it"
Having money doesn't mean you should just **** it away. Yes, you can afford it but why pay the man $500 when you can get it done for $300 somewhere else from someone who is equally trained and skilled. Just so that you can say "I got it done from so and so"? Example, you have a MB shop foreman who has been on the job with the MB dealer for 10 years. He's fed up with the dealership for whatever reason. He goes to open his own shop for MB repairs and service. He charges $70/hour (average indy shop rate), has all the MB training, has all the tools,etc. The dealer charges $115 (average dealer rate).
There is a lot you can do with that $200 saved. A nice dinner out, new toys for your car, etc.
Sure, some things you can't put a price on but why not save money where you can? Perhaps some people just feel the need to spend
Now, if someone were to complain how come repairs are expensive, that I could understand if you were to say "you're driving a German automobile, expensive repairs are common". But how expensive is something that the consumer can control most of the time by going to a MB indy shop and having the job done for a fraction of the cost yet still receive the same level of repair they would expect from the dealer. If I can save $200 by going to the indy and get the same level of service, repair, parts, etc and no corners are cut, you bet I'm going to the indy shop.
Having money doesn't mean you should just **** it away. Yes, you can afford it but why pay the man $500 when you can get it done for $300 somewhere else from someone who is equally trained and skilled. Just so that you can say "I got it done from so and so"? Example, you have a MB shop foreman who has been on the job with the MB dealer for 10 years. He's fed up with the dealership for whatever reason. He goes to open his own shop for MB repairs and service. He charges $70/hour (average indy shop rate), has all the MB training, has all the tools,etc. The dealer charges $115 (average dealer rate).
There is a lot you can do with that $200 saved. A nice dinner out, new toys for your car, etc.
Sure, some things you can't put a price on but why not save money where you can? Perhaps some people just feel the need to spend
Now, if someone were to complain how come repairs are expensive, that I could understand if you were to say "you're driving a German automobile, expensive repairs are common". But how expensive is something that the consumer can control most of the time by going to a MB indy shop and having the job done for a fraction of the cost yet still receive the same level of repair they would expect from the dealer. If I can save $200 by going to the indy and get the same level of service, repair, parts, etc and no corners are cut, you bet I'm going to the indy shop.
Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 234
Likes: 0
From: london
996 C4, previously owned 996 c2, c32 amg, 350z, R33 GTR, R34 GTR
Having worked in the vehicle design industry for 17 years, many vehicle components are similar in cost (except low volume items), the spare parts cost is set at a price that is roughly 10 times the manufacturing cost which seems to cover inventory/logistics costs of holding and making spares (especially obsolete components), the profit margins are much higher.
Paying a premium for the same part from a main dealer doesnt make sense in the internet age unless you like the "experience" of visiting the parts department
Paying a premium for the same part from a main dealer doesnt make sense in the internet age unless you like the "experience" of visiting the parts department
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E63, SL 550 Sport,C63 Coupe On the Way!!
I am partial to this post but I must say when I hear people looking for " Used tires" or best one I ever read on ferrarichat, "looking for used air filters" And a used " Tubi muffler"
I think it’s quite embarrassing to publicly post these request for used parts owning such a highline vehicle.
As for dealers being a ripoff this is just reality this is what keeps independent shops in buisness. As for buying parts from dealers some do move more volume and give better discounts off list price.
I think it’s quite embarrassing to publicly post these request for used parts owning such a highline vehicle.
As for dealers being a ripoff this is just reality this is what keeps independent shops in buisness. As for buying parts from dealers some do move more volume and give better discounts off list price.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 361
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2006 E55 Wagon (RIP), 2019 E63S Wagon (Sold) 2023 AMG GT634S
Yes, I LOVE to feel superior when I overpay for things! It reminds me that the little people don't even have the opportunity to get ripped off at that their Mercedes Dealers and it makes me smile.
- A Tribute to the Late, Great Leona Helmsley
- A Tribute to the Late, Great Leona Helmsley
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 4,929
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From: Tampa, Florida
06 SL65 / 97 993tt /11 Suburban/ 2012 GTR (AMG è la mia Famiglia la Bestia è la mia protezione)
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 297
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From: Houston
2005 E55
What a retarded original post and a retarded thread. (it's funny b/c it's true!)
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
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Joined: Feb 2004
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'14 ML BT
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 4,929
Likes: 5
From: Tampa, Florida
06 SL65 / 97 993tt /11 Suburban/ 2012 GTR (AMG è la mia Famiglia la Bestia è la mia protezione)
What a retarded original post and a retarded thread. (it's funny b/c it's true!)
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,406
Likes: 1
From: Mia
2005 E 55
What a retarded original post and a retarded thread. (it's funny b/c it's true!)
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
Yes, it's retarded to say this.
I can afford a lot more car than this E55, but don't have it because I choose to do other things w/ my money. But yet, I will still complain EVERY SINGLE TIME I get ripped off. Even if it's for $5. Getting ripped off is getting ripped off, period.
And to compare to shopping for heart surgery is implying that I get better service and treatment at the dealer, which is just laughable! I only go to the dealer because of warranty. Once it's out of warranty, if I still own this car, you won't catch me at a dealer ever again unless I'm shopping for a car. The dealers give crappy repair jobs, completely rip you off in terms of billed hours for a job, and bend you over to ram it home when it comes time to pay.
For every MB dealer, I can find at least 3 or 4 independent shops who will do a MUCH better job than the dealer.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 28,933
Likes: 12
I love how a lock on my dads car went out and the dealer wanted to charge for 4 hours at 103$/hour but the extended warranty only covered 2.9 hours according to "their" book at 95$/hour.
Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 137
Likes: 0
From: Manhattan, Illinois 60442
2008 SLK, 2006 Cadillac SRX, 1994 Cutlass Supreme Convertible
I prefer to do my own maintenance. I don't leave shop rags in the air intake, don't strip screws, don't forget to put back finishing hardware, don't take three(3) times to diagnose a problem and I probably know more about their product than their trained? personnel.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 297
Likes: 2
From: Houston
2005 E55
The hours thing is stupid. I have no problem with their 8 hours to change a window sticker when they're billing the factory for warranty work, but those who pay out of their pocket for that are crazy.
This isn't a MB only problem. All dealers work this way when it comes to assigned hours for certain jobs. However, when it comes to service quality, MB falls way behind Lexus and some other lines. My BMW service experience was better as well, not a lot better, but better.
blkamgsl55 is right... the lack of attention to detail by MB is very sad.
This isn't a MB only problem. All dealers work this way when it comes to assigned hours for certain jobs. However, when it comes to service quality, MB falls way behind Lexus and some other lines. My BMW service experience was better as well, not a lot better, but better.
blkamgsl55 is right... the lack of attention to detail by MB is very sad.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,927
Likes: 0
From: Vancouver, B.C.
2002 E55 AMG
I love reading these posts about "if you can't afford it, don't buy or drive it"
Having money doesn't mean you should just **** it away. Yes, you can afford it but why pay the man $500 when you can get it done for $300 somewhere else from someone who is equally trained and skilled. Just so that you can say "I got it done from so and so"? Example, you have a MB shop foreman who has been on the job with the MB dealer for 10 years. He's fed up with the dealership for whatever reason. He goes to open his own shop for MB repairs and service. He charges $70/hour (average indy shop rate), has all the MB training, has all the tools,etc. The dealer charges $115 (average dealer rate).
There is a lot you can do with that $200 saved. A nice dinner out, new toys for your car, etc.
Sure, some things you can't put a price on but why not save money where you can? Perhaps some people just feel the need to spend
Now, if someone were to complain how come repairs are expensive, that I could understand if you were to say "you're driving a German automobile, expensive repairs are common". But how expensive is something that the consumer can control most of the time by going to a MB indy shop and having the job done for a fraction of the cost yet still receive the same level of repair they would expect from the dealer. If I can save $200 by going to the indy and get the same level of service, repair, parts, etc and no corners are cut, you bet I'm going to the indy shop.
Having money doesn't mean you should just **** it away. Yes, you can afford it but why pay the man $500 when you can get it done for $300 somewhere else from someone who is equally trained and skilled. Just so that you can say "I got it done from so and so"? Example, you have a MB shop foreman who has been on the job with the MB dealer for 10 years. He's fed up with the dealership for whatever reason. He goes to open his own shop for MB repairs and service. He charges $70/hour (average indy shop rate), has all the MB training, has all the tools,etc. The dealer charges $115 (average dealer rate).
There is a lot you can do with that $200 saved. A nice dinner out, new toys for your car, etc.
Sure, some things you can't put a price on but why not save money where you can? Perhaps some people just feel the need to spend
Now, if someone were to complain how come repairs are expensive, that I could understand if you were to say "you're driving a German automobile, expensive repairs are common". But how expensive is something that the consumer can control most of the time by going to a MB indy shop and having the job done for a fraction of the cost yet still receive the same level of repair they would expect from the dealer. If I can save $200 by going to the indy and get the same level of service, repair, parts, etc and no corners are cut, you bet I'm going to the indy shop.
