Costly for a drop link

[jmack01]

My 03 plate E240 (50K miles) has developed a persistent front suspension knock which is at its most noticable when driving very slowly (less than 5mph) over uneven ground. My local garage has had a look and thinks it needs an antiroll bar drop link on one side. This seems reasonable since I've had this problem on other cars and it sounded the same. The problem is, he tells me, that the whole suspension arm has to be replaced on this car and the cost for the part alone is £126! Is this correct?

On my previous cars this repair has only needed parts costing around £20 (ie a drop link only).

I have recently moved and don't know the garage too well but it's my local and has been recommended. Should I be taking my business elsewhere or is the guy right?

Thanks
Dr J

 

[type49]

That isn't the price for a drop link! Your car is a 211 & a lot of these cars had a recall to replace the front lower ball joints due to premature wear. Check with dealer to see if your car is due - for free

 

[Parrot of Doom]

On my W210 the drop links cost about £6 + VAT!

 

[jmack01]

Can anyone confirm the cost of drop links on a 211 model? Is it possible (as the garage mechanic is suggesting) that the suspesion arm itself is worn where the drop link connects) and hence needs replacing?

J