Hey folks: taking in my 94 C280 due to the 'engine' lamp is illuminated. Car ran fine went to Houston, got back in the car and the light came on and stayed on. It runs great, no obvious problems, but the lamp is nagging. So appointment with the Houston MB dealer, coming up, cost 192.00 per dash lamp for diagnostics. Question is this reasonable?
Why not take it to my Houston tech , because I'm thinking if it's the engine harness then the dealer will have the data to recommend the replacement.
If this logic is faulty I'm open to other views. I will call my Houston tech and share this with him. If he can replace the harness (should it be the culprit)and perform the diagnostics (@ less cost) then Chuck will be my choice for sure.
PS I did buy an extended warranty when the vehicle was purchased.
Look forward to all the replies, this should be interesting! LH

I charge a min of .5 hour to check the light. I charge further diagnostic time from there. Usually this will not go over 2 hours on the labor side. IE about $150.oo

2 hours labor should give you a good idea what is wrong. In some odd-ball situations, it may take longer. The repair cost can vary greatly, depending upon what is wrong. Good luck!

Scott P.

Hey Bill, no I've gotten to know the folks at what used to be called Park Place. Think it's now Greenway Mercedes, next to the Compaq Center. I'll still keep you posted. Good hearing from a neighbor!! :D

Hey Leon, do a search on the engine light. I recall reading that this was a defective issue with no serious cause. But it could be something, so getting checked is right.
Post your results. Its great reference!
Thanks

I have met a lot of good technicians on the internet. It just so happens that there is a really special one in Houston. He is a member of this group, a member of the iATN, BimmerTG, and runs a really class Bosch Service Center.

His name is Michael Haven and his shop is in west Houston about at the convergence of I-10 and 610. When I bought my 97 540i on ebay I had it checked by his shop. He was right on the money on the car and I got a chance to see his shop when I flew in to pick up the car...Nice! The shop's name is MPH Automotive.