1) ball joints, 2) upper control arms, 3) lower control arm bushings, and 4) stabilizer bar bushings.

I've got the same on the 1997 C230. It goes away on a wet day and is quite pronounced in hot, dry weather.

Regarding evaluating if the above items should be replaced, and, if needed, replacing them, what's the best way to get it done?

Can I do it myself? Is this type of work a specialty, or can my regular independent mechanic do it? Does replacing any of this stuff require a new alignment? Is this stuff best left to the dealership?

Assuming I have my indy do the work and all of the above needed doing, what approximate cost are we talking about: $100, $500, $1,000?

__________________
Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230