air suspension matter

[polosbruno]

Well.I came back from mercedes yesterday and they have quoted me 1920 euros(about 1500gbp!!) just for the one shock absorber.I found one from an independent specialist at half the price but mercedes say that they have already ordered the part and that I cannot cancel it.Does anyone have a rough idea on how much I should be paying for this part?It looks like I am going to end up paying around 2000 gbp with the labour and recovery transport!Also does anyone know if I have any rights to cancel an order when the part is available from other independant specialists at half the price?Thanks

 

[amb67]

Firstly, is the part from the Indie a genuine MB part? If not, don't buy it. It won't last as long as a genuine part

If you have issued authority to the Mercedes-Benz retailer to conduct the repairs and order parts then you will be charged around 20% if you cancel the order. They get charged a return fee by the manufacturer, it's only fair.

You don't say what mileage your vehicle has done or what model it is. The reason I ask is that on some models you must do the units as pairs and have to reset the suspension after fitment.

 

[polosbruno]

Its a 2001 s280 with 43000 miles.Even if I pay the 20 percent penalty,it still works out that it would cost me 30 percent cheaper!!P.S The part off the other person is original and sealed direct from mercedes.

 

[amb67]

On the S Class at this mileage just go for the one shock absorber.

I agree that you will save money at the non Mercedes-Benz retailer but what is the Indie like? You can cause lots of expensive damage to the suspension systems if you don't fit the part right.

I know the Mercedes-Benz retailers are muppets but the technicians are certainly the best trained in the industry.

 

[polosbruno]

Yep.I totally agree with you on this matter.I might end up saving a bit of money but then might also take the risk of spending thousands in the near future.The merc techicians will also do the correct allignment and also will cover the part with a two year warranty.Thanks for the advice and hopefully they might consider in giving me a small discount:

 

[amb67]

If your a regular to them, in that I mean they do all your servicing work, then I would ask for some discount. Politely of course, if you are polite to the retailers you will be suprised at the reaction. How does the saying go, never bite the hand that feeds you. Goes both ways.

Have they said that they are doing the part at any discount and have you asked if the have submitted a goodwill request for you? It never hurts to ask.

Some retailers do a 3 plus scheme, it gives you discount on parts and labour on all vehicles over 3 years of age. You have to ask for this or they will just charge you at full rates.