Another troubling thing that they found is that the keys don't appear to be operating properly, thus requiring replacement (they had to order them). My receipt showed that they ordered number 7 & 8 keys. We only have 2 keys (bought the car used - 54K miles)so that means that there are 4 other keys floating around out there - scary. I hope they aren't in anyone's hands near me. They are probably on EBay. Does this means that we can't get any more keys after #8 without replacing the AAM?
It is possible they ordered keys out of sequence, but I cannot imagine why. I’d certainly ask the question. And yes, if all 8 keys have been assigned, then the AAM will need to be replaced if any more are needed. If you have a 2002 or later, it might even mean replacing the ECM since the Drive Authorization System was changed so that the key must be authenticated by both the AAM and ECM.
Another interesting thing that happened while I was there is that I was charged $402 for a fuel filter replacement since they said that the assembly and lines had to be replaced also due to a redesign. Shouldn't my Starmark policy have covered the upgraded lines and other parts? I expected to pay for the filter and labor to replace it, but having to pay for a MB redesign intended to correct a problem seems ridiculous. Should I pursue this issue.
Why did they replace the fuel filter? Was it to fix a particular problem, or was it just preventative maintenance? If it was to fix a I Starmark-covered problem, I’d argue the hell out of it. If not, then I know Starmark does not cover preventative work, so the bottom line is it’s no different than someone with no warranty wanting the filter replaced. Regardless, I’d still argue the point and even call the regional MBZ rep. IMHO, this whole fuel filter and line upgrade should have been a TSB and should be “retroactively� covered under the original warranty.
- RODNEY