I just came from the 45,000 mile service on my 1996 E320 W210. Everything was in great shape, but the tech said the accessory drive belt was showing signs of age, some small cracks. They recommended that I change the belt and tensioner at a cost of $365. I think I can do the job myself. There is no noise from the tensioner or belt. They said because of the age they would recommend tensioner replacement. What do you fellows suggest if age is the criteria. If the tensioner fails would the bearings in the pulley fail and let the pulley go flying to do it's damage? Would you hear the bearing squeal sometime prior to this catastrophe?

Any comments/suggestions?

I presume you have the M104 engine.

The earlier tensioner on these engines give trouble after belt replacement. I'd change the belt yourself and be aware that the tensioner MAY start failing soon after.

I personnally haven't had problem with tensioner on late model 104 engine.

Usually a worn tensioner will give belt chirping noises on startup and idling with a/c on and low rpm (in gear, load on p/s).

If you have a M112 engine then don't bother about changing the tensioner unless it fails.

__________________
Alex.

MB Tech
Sydney, Australia
Volvo 122S
W201 190D 2.5 manual
W202 C240
W203 C32

Thanks for your comments. I will let you know the outcome once I've gotten the belt and performed the job.