I still go to the dealership. They often find things that I wouldn't even know to check and it's a good change to catch up on all of the TSBs that are out there.
If I had the time I'd probably do my own A service and only come in for the Bs, but that's only because I like working on the truck and my services come fairly frequently.
Now that my '99 ML320 has 95k miles. I choose the items I want a la carte. Last time I did an oil change and a brake fluid flush. I think that I will throw in a B service every fourth time. I still use the dealer so that when I have another issue they fix it no problem and provide a loaner car as available. I Case in point they just replaced the center driveshaft bearing in half a day with no advanced appointment.
how many of you are now skipping the dealership and doing the maintenance yourself?
i assume you can just follow the maintenance schedule and DIY or have another mechanic do it.
my dealership has quoted:
$128 for an oil change
$275 for service A
$475 for service B
ML is brand new, but I take the 1987 300 SDL in to the dealer for all repairs/service. I let them do it because they have the tools and the knowledge to do the major repairs. With 190,000 miles I have over the years, replaced the alternator, rebuilt the front end, replaced the radiator, did the timing chain at 120,000 miles, replaced the glow plugs, replaced the A/C compressor, evap coil, and TXV, etc. all at the dealer.
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Andy
2006 ML350
723 - Pewter, 104 - Macadamia Interior, H04 - Brown Birds Eye Maple Wood, 167 Standard Non-Sport Pkg, 317 Comfort Pkg, 318 - Trim Package, 319 - Lighting Package, 320 - Entertainment Pkg, 324 - Sunroof Pkg, 580 - Std. Climate Control, 873 - Heated Front Seats, 890 - Power Liftgate, Navigation System, iPod interface kit
Modifications:
Added: Chrome Door handle cups, MB Twin Spoke 5-Spoke 18" wheels and tires
I stopped going to the dealer the minute the warranty was over.
Service A is just a glorified oil change. I do that myself now, at every 5K miles. Other things I learned to do myself (and save tons of money) are brake pads and rotors, flush brake fluid, change air and cabin filters. I wish I knew how to change fuel filter...
I don't do Service B. I take it to an independent shop that specialized in MB whenever there is an issue. I also had them do preventive maintenance such as change transmission oil, differential grease, spark plugs, etc.
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