Mercedes-Benz has always been the leader in automotive technology since the late 1800s and has been copied by auto manufacturers ever since. They are responsible for the first anti-lock brakes, first five speed automatic transmission, five link rear suspension design found on almost every modern car and more.
Extensive research, testing, and quality control goes into their production but every car has its issues and Mercedes is no different. Mercedes-Benz has a very specific plan for maintenance on each vehicle to ensure that it stays up to their exacting standards for many years.
Even long time Mercedes owners can still be a little unclear on what exactly the various letter services are that their cars request from them over time. A simple explanation is that an A service is a regular oil service and checkover that is due every year or 10,000 miles typically.
The B service includes the same items as the A but allows for extra time to replace the engine air filter, cabin air filter, clean drains and debris, lubricate latches and hinges etc and is due every 20,000 miles or two years.
C and subsequent letters signify what other manufacturers just refer to by mileage (such as a 40k service, 60k service etc) so a C service would be additional checks and maintenance items as required either by time, mileage, or condition.
There are a wide array of vehicles produced by Mercedes, but out of the typical 2010+ vehicles we usually service, there are some common themes with repairs:
As with any car, coolant leaks creep up as the cars age or get higher in mileage and these can range from a few easy to access hoses to much more involved turbo coolant lines or oil coolers etc. Oil leaks from a few different areas (depending on the engine) are also typical.
Engine mounts are fairly common failure points across a lot of Mercedes and lead to a very rough feel in the car that usually gets worse in gear but improves while driving.
Check engine lights on for fuel tank vent leaks or a thermostat stuck open (vehicle not warming up quickly enough) are also pretty universal to the various models and engines.
Due to the sheer number of models, engines, configurations and option levels, as well as AMG models that Mercedes-Benz offers, the problems can be just as varied. We are lucky enough to have a technician trained by MB with several years experience at MB dealerships on our team as well as a life long Mercedes enthusiast running the shop to take care of whatever might pop up.
Because of the variety of issues the different models can have, it is crucial to have it checked prior to purchase by a shop familiar with Mercedes to avoid being stuck with the last owner’s deferred repairs and maintenance. Maintenance history and consistent A/B services at a dealer or independent shop are a great indicator the vehicle was well cared for. Avoid vehicles with minimal service history or records from non-specialized quick oil change places for best results.