I had the head gasket replaced in my 300E. The cost at the most expensive and experienced Mercedes dealer in the Phoenix area was $1,140 labor, $148.52 for the gasket set, $18.70 for flushing compound and $17.00 for MB anti-freeze.

These people do a head gasket a week and provide a years warranty and a free rental car.

I don't buy the idea that dealers are all that more expensive than Independents. You usually won't get what you don't pay for.

I'd find someone who does a lot of these replacements so that you can be comfortable that you won't have any more problems.