Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations

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  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145

    With the X1 sold my wife is driving the Wrangler. The last time I filled it up was on February 15; today I filled it up and it had averaged 46.5 mpg. As I’ve said before, not bad for a 2.5 ton SUV with the aerodynamics of a brick- although my bride has a ways to go to match my high of 117.2 mpg.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145

    Speaking of the Wrangler, I’m getting ready to put fresh rubber on the Rubicon wheels my dealer was kind enough to give me. I’m leaning towards the BFG All-Terrain T/A KO3, but I’m waiting on seeing how well the new Pirelli XTM performs.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Unless the indie shop has the proprietary Mercedes diagnostic equipment and software (Xentry) it is doubtful that they would even know an update is available- never mind being able to install it.
    Thanks, confirms what I thought would happen.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 23,979
    edited March 29
    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • abacomike2abacomike2 Member Posts: 3
    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Unless the indie shop has the proprietary Mercedes diagnostic equipment and software (Xentry) it is doubtful that they would even know an update is available- never mind being able to install it.
    Thanks, confirms what I thought would happen.
    I know you are aware that most software updates to new(er) Mercedes vehicles are automatic now with no need to bring the car into the shop to have a mechanic/technician do the update. In some cases where there is an update that is major/massive, it might require that the car be brought into a Mercedes service department to complete the update.

    When I took possession of my 2024 G90 back in September, Apple Car Play could only be utilized in the car by connecting my iPhone to the car using a USB cable and plugging it into my car in the console. A few months ago, when I got into my car one morning I noticed that Car Play was active on my screen and my phone was not connected via USB. I wondered how this occurred so I called my service manager and he told me there was an update to my car's software which now enabled Car Play using my phone's Bluetooth instead of requiring that the phone be connected to a USB port.

    Technology in today's vehicles is truly amazing!
  • abacomike2abacomike2 Member Posts: 3
    Hmmm! I just noticed that "abacomike2" posted something above. That's because I am on my computer right now, not my phone. "abacomike" seems to only work when I post from my iphone. That's interesting.
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145

    @oldfarmer50 said:
    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.

    My C43 hasn’t required any major repairs but I don’t think the prices have been out of line. They even replaced the rear brake pads without replacing the rotors.
    My only real gripe is that MB doesn’t have a credit card like my BMW card that gives me more points when I use them for parts/service. I get a lot of positive comments about the BMW card and I would switch since I use an indie shop for the ti now that it’s older than most of the techs at the dealer- and the shop owner used to be the service manager at BMW.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,444

    @abacomike2 said:
    Hmmm! I just noticed that "abacomike2" posted something above. That's because I am on my computer right now, not my phone. "abacomike" seems to only work when I post from my iphone. That's interesting.

    Split personality?

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,386

    @sda said:

    @abacomike2 said:
    Hmmm! I just noticed that "abacomike2" posted something above. That's because I am on my computer right now, not my phone. "abacomike" seems to only work when I post from my iphone. That's interesting.

    Split personality?

    Must be! 🤪😜

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046

    Hmmm! I just noticed that "abacomike2" posted something above. That's because I am on my computer right now, not my phone. "abacomike" seems to only work when I post from my iphone. That's interesting.

    ————————————————
    You shouldn’t have said that because now your dues will double. Honesty doesn’t always favor the honest.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,386

    @jmonroe1 said:
    ————————————————
    You shouldn’t have said that because now your dues will double. Honesty doesn’t always favor the honest.

    jmonroe

    You’re right, as always Jmonroe. Thank goodness I can afford double dues now! 🤡

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145

    I’d also add that when I worked at BMW I went out of my way to help BMW owners who came by with problems- whether they were regular customers or not. That said, if you were a “regular” customer who only showed up when they wanted a freebie the service department would not be as receptive.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,217
    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Have you done plugs or transmission service yet? My E450 is at 6 years now (~35K miles), and when in for annual service the other day, those were recommended. Transmission service quote was a bit more expensive than expected, as apparently the pan is replaced.
  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046
    abacomike said:

    @jmonroe1 said:

    ————————————————

    You shouldn’t have said that because now your dues will double. Honesty doesn’t always favor the honest.

    jmonroe

    You’re right, as always Jmonroe. Thank goodness I can afford double dues now! 🤡

    ————————————————
    Good to hear. Anyone who can afford double can afford triple. Let me know when I can send you my member account number. o:)

    jmonroe.
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Unless the indie shop has the proprietary Mercedes diagnostic equipment and software (Xentry) it is doubtful that they would even know an update is available- never mind being able to install it.
    Thanks, confirms what I thought would happen.
    I know you are aware that most software updates to new(er) Mercedes vehicles are automatic now with no need to bring the car into the shop to have a mechanic/technician do the update. In some cases where there is an update that is major/massive, it might require that the car be brought into a Mercedes service department to complete the update.

    When I took possession of my 2024 G90 back in September, Apple Car Play could only be utilized in the car by connecting my iPhone to the car using a USB cable and plugging it into my car in the console. A few months ago, when I got into my car one morning I noticed that Car Play was active on my screen and my phone was not connected via USB. I wondered how this occurred so I called my service manager and he told me there was an update to my car's software which now enabled Car Play using my phone's Bluetooth instead of requiring that the phone be connected to a USB port.

    Technology in today's vehicles is truly amazing!
    I hope the update includes modifications to the GPS system. Half the time it has no idea what I am saying even though I pronounce it very clearly. But then again, WAZE is a much better system, so who needs the built in MB GPS?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    fintail said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Have you done plugs or transmission service yet? My E450 is at 6 years now (~35K miles), and when in for annual service the other day, those were recommended. Transmission service quote was a bit more expensive than expected, as apparently the pan is replaced.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I try to follow the MB guidelines but I am sure they are overly cautious:
    Every 50,000 mi/80,000 km or 4 years:
    Check condition of drive shaft flex discs

    Every 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 4 years:
    Replace air cleaner filter element

    Every 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 5 years:
    Replace fuel filter

    Every 150,000 mi/250,000 km or 15 years:
    Replace coolant

    Every 2 years:
    Replace brake fluid
    Check body for paint damage
    Check chassis and supporting body parts for damage and corrosion

    Every 100,000 mi/160,000 km or 5 years:
    Replace spark plugs
    The E400 goes 7000 miles a year, the GLK about 4000, and the C250 5000. So generally, I leave it for a year, 2 or 3 longer for some things. They say batteries should be changed every 5 years. The one in the E400 is checked every year and it is 8 years old. It will get checked in late April.
    They tell you tires last 6 years max.....I tend to think that they can last longer....but all our cars are in a garage.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    My friends wife has a 2017 Honda HRV with 30000 miles on it. She got a letter from her dealer that she should have the serpentine belt checked. Here is what the internet says:
    For a 2017 Honda HR-V, you should generally consider replacing the serpentine belt around 5 years or 50,000 to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
    The car is 8 years old.........should she have it done now?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • corvettecorvette Member Posts: 11,109
    edited March 29
    Given the low mileage, if it doesn't look cracked, I'd probably replace at 10 years as preventative maintenance (same with the tires, if they are original).
  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,444
    @roadburner , I believe this one is for you. I really liked these. https://youtu.be/7U83LArPss8?si=2_8FKW9ECP7GjBb1

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145
    fintail said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Have you done plugs or transmission service yet? My E450 is at 6 years now (~35K miles), and when in for annual service the other day, those were recommended. Transmission service quote was a bit more expensive than expected, as apparently the pan is replaced.
    Yes, the ZF 8HP uses a similar design; the filter is built into the pan.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145
    sda said:

    @roadburner , I believe this one is for you. I really liked these. https://youtu.be/7U83LArPss8?si=2_8FKW9ECP7GjBb1

    We liked ours, but parts prices were crazy. And of course the purchase experience was "interesting" since most L-M dealers at the time weren't used to selling to people who weren't collecting SSI.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046
    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    corvette said:

    Given the low mileage, if it doesn't look cracked, I'd probably replace at 10 years as preventative maintenance (same with the tires, if they are original).

    Thanks, that sounds sensible. It seems that using miles for service is fairly straightforward, but using time they seem to want you to service the car a lot earlier than when it really needs it. This car is also kept in a garage. I like the idea of changing tires at the same time......of course they recommend 5 or 6 years for tires, it seems to me tires last longer than that if you drive fairly normally.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,600
    My Goodyear tires were just replaced with 11 years and 63K miles. The car is mostly garaged. So little sun damage to sidewall rubber. Two tires had punctures patched or I might have kept them another year and a couple trips to Pigeon forge.

    When the tire companies went crazy trying to get everyone to replace tires at 6 years, because, well just because more profits, I recall Michelin and Goodyear saying could be longer.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • cdnpinheadcdnpinhead Member Posts: 5,608
    edited March 30

    We liked ours, but parts prices were crazy. And of course the purchase experience was "interesting" since most L-M dealers at the time weren't used to selling to people who weren't collecting SSI.

    Same story with the Lincoln LS. Naturally, I had to special order one with the manual transmission. Ford totally dropped the ball with the LS. First they discontinued the manual transmission, followed by cancelling the whole car a few years later. Many people at the time (25 years ago -- geez) compared the experience to the Merkur.

    '08 Acura TSX, '17 Subaru Forester
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,450
    Stumbled on this little nugget, which impacts some of our posters here.

    Cryptocurrency mining companies receive heavily discounted electricity rates compared to what households pay.

    In Texas, regular homeowners paid around 14.5 cents per kilowatt-hour in 2023, while crypto miners paid as little as 2.5 cents. Similar patterns appear in New York (residents: 22.3 cents; miners: 3 cents), Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Arkansas.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.




    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046
    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.


    ————————————————
    I’m surprised a tire repair doesn’t cost more.

    BTW, that place reminds me of my old Hyundai dealership that I don’t patronize anymore.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145

    I have 44,000 miles on the C43 and a Service A is due in 600 miles. I’ll check with my SA, but I’m planning to change the fluids in the differential, transmission, and transfer case at the Service B next year.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,145
    edited March 30

    I have a new favorite on ramp; it just opened a few weeks ago. It has an uphill right followed by a downhill left sweeper ending with a hard right into the acceleration lane. Today I shared it with an extremely timid soul in an X5M. Having driven an X5M around Greenville a few years ago for a story I was writing I knew he should have left me for dead but instead the converse was true. Crazy.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,886
    I still can't get my head around Crypto, and the whole mining business really makes no sense to me.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 52,886
    Had a fun trip today. Headed home from Boston to Albany. Google maps said 2:42 travel time, which is about as low as it can go, so figured would be a nice quick trip home, arrive at lunch time. Had to stop for gas an hour in, and when I got back on the road noticed the arrival time was creeping up so figured must be an issue ahead which the map in the car (my phone in car play running google maps) did not mention anything or suggest a detour. So the wife poked around on her phone and found some red and road closure and a suggestion about a reroute. Of course, as I was trying to figure out where and what to do, we passed the exit needed. and shortly after hit traffic and came to a dead stop. and stayed that way.

    After some searching determined there was a car fire, and the westbound mass pike was closed at the exit we had just passed (must have happened right after we went by). Took about 2.5 hours of just sitting there with an occasional creep forward before we finally got funneled through the fire zone. At one point 2 medical examiner vans and a giant front loaded went up the shoulder past us so we knew it was serious and would not be quick.

    Finally started moving and funneled down to 1 lane. Turned out that the incident happened on a bridge where they were rebuilding one side so all traffic was diverted to the other side, meaning only 2 lanes each way with no shoulder (just jersey barriers and 2 narrow lanes). so no chance of getting traffic past until the accident was clear. By the time we went through just the front loader was there with some guys shoveling up the remaining debris, and nasty residual burnt smell. And shortly after we ran into heavy fog.

    some brave souls decided not to wait any hung a very illegal U turn in the median, which at that spot was a valley with quite steep sides and all grass. Was expecting someone to get stuck in the mud or not make it up the other side but they all did (that would probably be difficult to explain to the troopers.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.


    ————————————————
    I’m surprised a tire repair doesn’t cost more.

    BTW, that place reminds me of my old Hyundai dealership that I don’t patronize anymore.

    jmonroe
    Is this your old dealer?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,550
    fintail said:

    driver100 said:

    fintail said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Have you done plugs or transmission service yet? My E450 is at 6 years now (~35K miles), and when in for annual service the other day, those were recommended. Transmission service quote was a bit more expensive than expected, as apparently the pan is replaced.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I try to follow the MB guidelines but I am sure they are overly cautious:
    Every 50,000 mi/80,000 km or 4 years:
    Check condition of drive shaft flex discs

    Every 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 4 years:
    Replace air cleaner filter element

    Every 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 5 years:
    Replace fuel filter

    Every 150,000 mi/250,000 km or 15 years:
    Replace coolant

    Every 2 years:
    Replace brake fluid
    Check body for paint damage
    Check chassis and supporting body parts for damage and corrosion

    Every 100,000 mi/160,000 km or 5 years:
    Replace spark plugs
    The E400 goes 7000 miles a year, the GLK about 4000, and the C250 5000. So generally, I leave it for a year, 2 or 3 longer for some things. They say batteries should be changed every 5 years. The one in the E400 is checked every year and it is 8 years old. It will get checked in late April.
    They tell you tires last 6 years max.....I tend to think that they can last longer....but all our cars are in a garage.
    I have a warranty until 2029, that and how good the car has been so far makes me want to just deal with it and have that work done the next time I take it in. The car has been fantastic with effectively no faults in the 6 years I've had it. I expect your E400 has been similar.
    Yes, The 3 MBs we have now and the one I had before have all been great cars. No real breakdowns...just normal parts that wear, and even they last longer than I'd expect. It is worth a bit more to make sure it is serviced by pros, and that the car is in top condition....it will last longer and cost less to own in the long run.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,386

    Warranties on upscale vehicles like Mercedes, Jaguar, BMW, Audi, Genesis, Lexus, Infinity, etc., are extremely important due to the cost factors of their service departments at dealerships. 4 years 50,000 mile warranty is the standard for these cars for good reason. My Genesis has a 5 year 60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty which should be the standard among all luxury brands, IMHO.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046
    abacomike said:

    Warranties on upscale vehicles like Mercedes, Jaguar, BMW, Audi, Genesis, Lexus, Infinity, etc., are extremely important due to the cost factors of their service departments at dealerships. 4 years 50,000 mile warranty is the standard for these cars for good reason. My Genesis has a 5 year 60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty which should be the standard among all luxury brands, IMHO.

    ————————————————
    If/when other luxury brands feel they are losing too many sales to Genesis because of the longer warranty, they will offer longer warranties too.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 23,979

    Stumbled on this little nugget, which impacts some of our posters here.

    Cryptocurrency mining companies receive heavily discounted electricity rates compared to what households pay.

    In Texas, regular homeowners paid around 14.5 cents per kilowatt-hour in 2023, while crypto miners paid as little as 2.5 cents. Similar patterns appear in New York (residents: 22.3 cents; miners: 3 cents), Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Arkansas.

    That would explain my electric bill.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • xwesxxwesx Member Posts: 17,487


    Depends on the codes. In NY you couldn’t get it inspected with a CEL lit up. I had a CEL evap code on my PT Cruiser that I just couldn’t fix. Turned out to be a rusted out fuel tank. Expensive repair relative to the value of the car. Even a $1000 repair on Jipster’s hooptie might be too much.

    At least dad is a mechanic, that should help with repair costs.

    EDIT: I see the code was only for O2 sensor. Hopefully that doesn’t mean a bad catalytic converter.

    At those miles, I always start with replacing the oxygen sensors (both of them). As long as the rest of the engine is operating correctly (no excess oil consumption or coolant leaking into the cylinders), it is more common that the sensors are going bad than the converter. Price and time-wise, it is always worth changing them first. Then, if you do need to replace the expensive part, you already have new sensors in place to support it!
    2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,590

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    Unless the indie shop has the proprietary Mercedes diagnostic equipment and software (Xentry) it is doubtful that they would even know an update is available- never mind being able to install it.
    Thanks, confirms what I thought would happen.
    I know you are aware that most software updates to new(er) Mercedes vehicles are automatic now with no need to bring the car into the shop to have a mechanic/technician do the update. In some cases where there is an update that is major/massive, it might require that the car be brought into a Mercedes service department to complete the update.

    When I took possession of my 2024 G90 back in September, Apple Car Play could only be utilized in the car by connecting my iPhone to the car using a USB cable and plugging it into my car in the console. A few months ago, when I got into my car one morning I noticed that Car Play was active on my screen and my phone was not connected via USB. I wondered how this occurred so I called my service manager and he told me there was an update to my car's software which now enabled Car Play using my phone's Bluetooth instead of requiring that the phone be connected to a USB port.

    Technology in today's vehicles is truly amazing!
    "The more you overthink the plumbing the easier to stop up the drain" - LtCmdr Montgomery Scott (AAK Scottie).

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,590
    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.


    ————————————————
    I’m surprised a tire repair doesn’t cost more.

    BTW, that place reminds me of my old Hyundai dealership that I don’t patronize anymore.

    jmonroe
    Is this your old dealer?

    At least that there is truth in advertising,

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • xwesxxwesx Member Posts: 17,487

    Speaking of the Wrangler, I’m getting ready to put fresh rubber on the Rubicon wheels my dealer was kind enough to give me. I’m leaning towards the BFG All-Terrain T/A KO3, but I’m waiting on seeing how well the new Pirelli XTM performs.

    Serious overkill and extra weight to lug around unless you're planning on spending some time in the back country!
    2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 9,046

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.


    ————————————————
    I’m surprised a tire repair doesn’t cost more.

    BTW, that place reminds me of my old Hyundai dealership that I don’t patronize anymore.

    jmonroe
    Is this your old dealer?

    At least that there is truth in advertising,
    ————————————————
    Honesty never goes out of style, honest.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's.
    '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 259,070
    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    The E400 is 8 years old (50k miles) and MrsD100s GLK is 10 years old (30000 miles).
    I was thinking they just need an oil change this year so I might try an indie garage which worked quite well with the Florida car. Then I thought, the MB dealer is closer, they want me as a customer so they get me in asap if I have a problem, maybe they will give me more for them as trade-ins one day if we have all our servicing done by the dealer. Their service has always been reasonable, and the coffee, soup and sandwiches are good...plus wi-fi etc.
    I made the appointments, and they mentioned they would need the car for most of the day because there was a free major software update they wanted to do on the E400.
    So, my question is....if I had gone to the indie garage, would they have told me about the update, and would they have done the update or would I miss getting it done? Also, it is nice that since it is a long visit they will shuttle me home and back.

    One of my coworkers also drives for a Mercedes dealer and he tells us about the incredible service bills he hands to customers when he delivers a car. The dealership will provide pick up and loner services as well as nice snacks but boy oh boy do you pay for it.

    Couldn’t you just call them once a year and ask if they have any free software updates? Don’t you have any friends who would give you a ride? My indie shop doesn’t even have coffee.
    All of our MBs have given us good service and there is something special about them...they are a pleasure to drive. They have not needed a lot of repairs. If we maintain them well, they may last longer and that will make economic sense too. I did have a flat tire that needed a patch on a long weekend...they said it would take 4 days to get the car into the shop. I told them if they want to sell me another car they should try to get it done sooner....they said they'd squeeze it in that day....no one else wanted to do a $50 patch when they could sell $1200 worth of tires. Of course at MB the $50 patch was $100 :(
    ————————————————
    That’s the upcharge for squeezing you in. I hope you got them for an extra bowl of their delicious soup.

    jmonroe
    Not an upcharge for squeezing me in.......it is a case of high overhead and they'd be losing money to do a tire patch for the standard garage price of $50.......minimum repair is probably $100.


    ————————————————
    I’m surprised a tire repair doesn’t cost more.

    BTW, that place reminds me of my old Hyundai dealership that I don’t patronize anymore.

    jmonroe
    Is this your old dealer?

    At least that there is truth in advertising,
    ————————————————
    Honesty never goes out of style, honest.

    jmonroe
    This coming from the guy who "fudges" his taxes on a consistent basis. :lol:

    Edmunds Price Checker
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    2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,043
    jmonroe1 said:


    Is this your old dealer?

    These guys look like their Thompson machine guns are stashed just out of camera range. Especially the fellow on the left with his hat tilted at a rakish angle.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 261,186
    ab348 said:

    jmonroe1 said:


    Is this your old dealer?

    These guys look like their Thompson machine guns are stashed just out of camera range. Especially the fellow on the left with his hat tilted at a rakish angle.

    On a related note, Thompson of machine gun fame lived a couple of miles from me in Newport, KY. His historic house was a music venue until a few years ago.

    Edmunds Price Checker
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    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

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  • suydamsuydam Member Posts: 5,022
    Many years ago when I was in Belgium I took a trip to see the Battle of the Bulge memorial. It was very moving.
    '24 Kia Sportage PHEV
    '24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
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