I believe I read somewhere that Mercedes has increased the expected life from 10 to 15 years for the airbags. That means you're only six months past due. I seriously doubt that Mercedes replaces them for free. I believe the airbags themselves retail for over $1000 from Mercedes.

I had a problem with my SRS light coming on intermittently. My independent Mercedes mechanic quoted me $70 to take off the airbag and clean off the contact points. So I figure that's what it would cost to install a new one.

Don't know what the ramifications are of not replacing the airbag after 15 years.

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Mike Heath
1988 560SL Black/Palomino
1988 300SEL Black Pearl/Burgandy
1984 500SEC Anthracite Grey/Palomino