Manny wrote: "I know for a FACT ( not suspicion ), of environmental laws that were implemented in Germany in the early 90's, whereas all car manufacturers are required to make their vehicles more recyclable-friendly."

I remember reading about it at the time in Auto Motor und Sport. But you should re-read what I wrote: "In light of this and further thought, I would be willing to bet that it was simply some combination of awarding the contract to the lowest bidder, poor design, weight reduction and German arrogance."

I didn't present my opinion as a researched fact. It IS a fact that Germany and other countries passed laws regarding the labelling of vehicle parts (just look at the back of every 80's and on MB plastic part which clearly identifies the type of plastic used) in order to reliably separate material types and avoid mixed stream wastes. To my knowledge, the German greenies did not legislate the material types that would be acceptable for use as automotive wire insulation (although nothing ever surprises me) and if they did, was this law repealed to permit the sale of the non-green replacement wire harnesses? Also, wouldn't every vehicle sold in Germany be required to use the same defective wire? Similarly, wouldn't a prudent manufacturer who sells vehicles in Germany be forced to use two different wire harnesses, one green and defective for Germany and the other non-green but good for all other countries? Again, stranger things have happened but this doesn't make sense to me. I suppose it is possible that Germany prohibited the plastic of choice for wire insulation and the wire suppliers simply chose a permitted but inferior plastic at the time and have now begun using a permitted and performing plastic. Frankly, whether cost concerns, green laws or aliens caused the problem the fact is that the wiring harnesses are defective, frequentlly create an unsafe condition and cost owners a great deal of money to replace. MB's insistence on blaming their problems on this or that doesn't cure the problem for the consumer---it simply serves to erode their customer base and drive their long-time supporters to other marques. It is also my opinion that it is way past time for MB to stop the denial and excuses in this and many other areas and get back to being the manufacturer (IMO) of the best vehicles in the world. Mark