A170 Class steering column again!

[wightwave]

Has anyone had similar problems and/or can provide guidance on the following

1999 car bought new

Aug 2004 New steering column and radius arm bearings fitted by Mercedes dealer, we query why this should need replacing and Mercedes (head office) agree to cover 30% of cost.

Oct 2006 Car serviced, by Mercedes and we are told that we need the following:
Supply and renew steering column - £631
Supply and renew OSR & NSR radius arm bearing - £353

The car milage is low - 38,547 miles.

It concerns us greatly that the car needs these parts replacing again and would appreciate any assistance, the column is now six weeks over two year guarantee.

Thanks ww

 

[jberks]

I'd ignore the '2 year' warranty and insist that they get MB to pay for the repair. The column should not fail at all in 10 years, let alone twice in 6.

However, I do wonder whether there is something wrong that is taking the column and radius arm out. I'd have them investigate further, perhaps doing a full geometry check.

Weak example, but I once had a go at a parts supplier when the front pipes on my escort failed for the 3rd time in 18 months. After a little more thought, we investigated and it turned out that the engine mounts were weak and were allowing too much movement, thereby overstressing the perfectly good pipes that my supplier was dilligently changing under warranty.

Odd, repeated failures often have a comon cause.

 

[wightwave]

Steering Column replacements not uncommon

Thanks for your advice, we have contacted Mercedes who are referring back to our garrage/dealer. Looking back on this site and a few links such probs with steering column, its replacement and excessive prices charged are not un common.

Will update date on this site once we have resolution

Any further thoughts would be appreciated

Ken Wightwave

 

[angus falconer]

Is it the rack or the column?

For what it's worth before today I have never heard of anyone replacing a steering column on any car, period