Independent Servicing

[Macjo]

As a new MB owner I have read with trepidation comments about dealer service and costs. Surely it can't all be true! Does any one know a good independent garage in South Cumbria, North Lancs or Bradford areas?

 

[peterchurch]

Hi,
Where is maxolaf when you need him to answer a question? :lol: To be honest I bought my merc a few months back and it has just turned 5. I had some questions/problems that I wanted to get anwers to, and so I went to see an MB dealer near me, and they were curteous and informative.
But then it came to book my B service and it was going to be a 2 week wait and the starting cost was going to be £470+vat. but might cost more depending on what else needed doing...
While I was there the other customers that were in front of me were both there to complain about various servicing issues so I went and found an independent and got a B service with everything replaced plus a set of front pads and 12 new spark plugs for the same price. as the starting MB service price... (all MB Genuine Parts Where used)

OK so now I cant claim FMBSH when I sell it in another few years but... I know that I can take the car in for regular servicing and instead of being charged for somone to look at the car I can afford to just have the parts changed out. As a result the car should run smoother for me. If I add up what I save on not getting the Star stamp vs the loss of value for not having a FMBSH and I doubt that you will see me out of pocket but the choice is yours really ...

Best regards,

Peter

 

[jberks]

Hi,
Its true there are a lot of horror stories around. To be truthful, I have found the Leeds dealer to be ok. Friendly and helpful, just rather pricey - 4-500 for a B service sounds about normal. The main problems I have with the dealer (other than cost) is getting hold of them, they are hideously understaffed, but as they are building "the largest dealership in the UK!" I'll wait and see if that improves. Might help the fact that they never have the parts in stock either. I think a lot of dealers are struggling with the growth from 3 models (E,S,SL) to however many there are these days.
In answer to your other question, there is a specialist called Merc Care in Pudsey (Nr Bradford) who I have now used 3 times - and no complaints as yet. Labour charges are half Derwent's (recent quote for a B at £220), though parts are about the same . They are easier to book in with too and they have loan cars so you're not off the road. They also only fit genuine merc bits and seem to know their stuff.
As an aside, I don't think FMBSH is worth a thing. When I tried to trade in my mint, low mileage C class with FMBSH and 6 months signature warranty remaining, the dealers still offered me bottom book. They didn't even look at the service book.
cheers,
Julian

 

[Macjo]

Thanks Julian and Peter for your replies.
Merc Care in Pudsey would be good for me as it is very near to my office in Cutler Heights Lane. Do you have an address or phone number?
I agree that an MB stamped book is over rated. I would much rather be able to speak to the hands on mechanic about my car rather than the oily rag's front desk assistant. Also any future purchaser could if they wish telephone and speak with the mechanic who actually knows the car rather than look at an ink stamp on a bit of paper. I hope that I would have that also but it may not be a stealer stamp.

Thanks for your help - any offers for south Cumbria?

Peter Mac

 

[jberks]

hi,
Merc Care are on the Grangefield industrial estate, from bradford its the 1st (M&S) turnoff the ring road towards Leeds. The phone number is 0113 2577500.
http://www.merc-care.com
cheers,
Julian

 

[Macjo]

Thanks Julian

Merc Care seem to be just what I was looking for and near to my office.

Peter Mac