$640 here...
basically new fluids,oil change and filter, brake lines bled and fluid replaced, new cabin air filters, $26 dollar wiper blade and a computer reset...
just pay the man....[:0]
Interior
A function check of Tele Aid, the horn, headlamps, flashers, turn signals, warning lamps, all interior lights, all exterior lights, windshield wiper, windshield washer, headlamp cleaner, seat belts, security system, and battery. They will replace the cabin filter and reset the FSS counter.
Wheels, Brakes Check the brake discs, brake pads, tire condition, and add/remove air as necessary.
Underside of car Check for chafe marks, line routing, condition of ball joints, condition of rubber boots, condition of the drive shaft flex discs, and check for any leaks. Repairs for leaks are a separate chargeable item. Adjust the parking brake. Tighten steering gear bolts.
Engine Change the oil and filter, check for chafe marks, line routing, and leaks. Repairs for leaks in the engine compartment are a separate chargeable item. Check and correct fluid levels for the cooling system, brakes, power steering, and windshield washer. Check the drive belt, engine hood, safety catch, and lubricate the throttle linkage, safety catch and hinges.
Body Check the headlamp aiming system, and replace the windshield wiper rubber insert.
Trunk Check the battery, and add air to the spare tire if needed.
These extra cost items are usually done (and are also what brings the price up from the $300 initial quote you were given) – the air filters are usually replaced, the coolant is replaced if it hasn’t been replaced in 24 months (although the factory specifies 36 months), the brake fluid will be changed if it is 24 months old, and they will recommend a fuel filter if the mileage is 60K or the car is 4 years old.
Is it worth it? The work has to be done. If you can do your own maintenance, get the WIS and spend a Saturday in the garage getting to know your car. It's a fair number of things to check, the fluid/filter change is not very complex, and it's not really much money in parts (oil, coolant, brake fluid, fuel filter, wiper blade, air filters, and cabin filter). If you don’t know anything about how cars work, the dealer or a good Mercedes-Benz trained independent are the best options. I personally would not allow a chain store mechanic to do the work.
Thanks for everybody's comments ... I just took it to the dealer. The majority of the things they're doing I could do myself. But screw it .... what's more precious time or money?