To find a good independent, just talk to them and the tech that is going to work on the car. Ask them if they have experience and manuals on the 500E (124.036). If they say yes, ask to see the manual and if they would give you a reference. Be sure that they either have some sort of factory training or are ASE Certified.
Do they use OE parts??
Ask, Ask, Ask...If they don't run you off, they want your buisness.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM