SL500 with Leaking Differential

[SoCalSun]

Has anyone else had this problem before? It's a 2000 model year car (under 30K miles) so I'm not sure if it's common or if the dealer is just trying to create problems that aren't there. Of course, they want to charge me an arm and a leg ($700) to fix the "leak". After I pressed them on the issue, they said it isn't critical...YET. I have a +10 year Toyota that's never had a leaking differential. Has the quality for MB gone down or is the dealer being a bit shady? Maybe I need to find an independent mechanic that's trustworthy...can anyone recommend one in the L.A. area?

[elau]

I would take it to an indie for second opinion. However, you are the first I have heard with a leaky differential, especially on such late model.

Isn't the car still under warranty?

[SoCalSun]

Unfortunately, it was out of warranty in '03. I dread taking it to the dealer now because I know they can't wait to find/create problems with it. Yes, I DO need to find a good indie shop...I'm open to suggestions.
FYI While at the dealer I saw they wanted to charge $100+parts for replacing the rear brakes only. They're nuts...and so am I for still going there.

[elau]

Whether you want your work done by the stealer or not is strictly personal. I know they charge more, but my preferece have always been with the stealer. I like to keep all my maintenance record from the same source. Now, my 300E is worked by an indie, but not the SL.

Then again, I haven't much work done on the SL so my maintenance cost per year is under $50 (annual oil change) since I have the car, and I drive it less than 3K miles per year.

Good luck on getting yours fixed. Do a search on the forum on good indie shop in your area.

[merc2merc]

i just bought a 1995 sl 500 with 56000 miles. it has a noticeable differential leak.
it also needs an evaporator coil for the air-conditioner. the dealer quoted $3500-$4000 for that alone!! the part costs around $300.00. i am looking for an outside tech. didnt even want to find out how much the dealer wants for the differential job!

[Kebowers]

rear brake pads are around $65 I think. wear sensors, fluid, etc could get to the century mark. Pads for the 600 are considerably more.