Well, being more specifif when the actual mechanic standing in front of me says that the entire A/C "BOX" has to be replaced.

I asked to explain what he meant by "box". He stated that there is a black "BOX" sealed with all A/C components inside and if you break the seal to try and fix anything on the inside....you ruined as you cannot reseal...

The Mercedes dealer manager and tech said the "BOX" needs to be replaced. The A/C Box with all components...

That was my detailed report and estimate. They told me that they DO NOT write up estimates with detail any longer as people used the estimates to order their own parts or took it to a INDY to have the work done.

I cannot even get a parts price and number over the phone these days..

There are many INDY's in Ann Arbor, BUT they are just as expensive as the dealer and many of them WILL NOT touch your car IF YOU HAVE WORKED ON IT YOURSELF...

When replacing my water pump I stopped by a INDY and asked for a quote...after the quote hit $700, I asked for a detail....he did this right in front of me...

"Well, the water pump costs me $130 so your cost is (tapping on the calculator) $290, the thermostat kit is $5.31 for me so it's $49 for you, the serpentine belt cost me $2.67 and will run you $75....now the labor is 3 hours at 90 hour and that does not include any other things that may extend our time"

I asked this question...If I do any of the work, will it save me any money?

His response was "if you ever worked on this car, I wont touch it"!

HUH? What? Did I miss something, it's my car and I work on it all the time I just have never done a water pump.....

Nope I wont touch it....have a good day !

So, again I am sorry for the BOX, but it seems that everyone knew or knows what I am referring to except one that says there is no such box...

I have W202 CD's and W124 CD's in which neither refer to A/C components being sealed in one large box...

AND YES, the $1400 was for the "BOX" only and no labor....whew