I went to replace the two spark plug wires on my newly acquired SLK230 and found that the factory replacement is the wire only and a special crimping tool is needed to fit them into the old ends which are to be re-used. Talk about flashback to the 1970s! Why can't they just offer the entire wire assembly, ends and all if that's what a customer wants to buy? Can't it be a more cost effective use of a tech's time to just replace the entire thing than to fidget around making up a wire assembly? And the crimping tool cost $150! So, now I guess I either have to make up the assembly myself or buy aftermarket wires, which is what I am leaning towards but like to use OE whenever possible...any other choices??

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Marty D.

2013 C300 4Matic
1984 BMW 733i
2013 Lincoln MKz

You can buy complete sets or individual wires,connectors , or plug ends.
So, that is the best of both worlds.
Check parts right here.

Thanks Arthur for the prompt response, but...

Apparently you can't buy the entire assembly from MB, only from aftermarket sources. Whether those are identical to OE or not I don't know...the EPC shows no PN for the wire with ends, only individual parts (wire, connectors, ends)...I was trying to keep the car OE, and avoid aftermarket but if I have to I will just order a set of aftermarket ones from Fastlane. If you know of a PN for the entire assembly from MB please let me know, but my EPC and that of my dealer's parts counter doesn't show one available.

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Marty D.

2013 C300 4Matic
1984 BMW 733i
2013 Lincoln MKz

Why do you think you need wires ..it is the plug connector/resistors that go bad.

I had a misfire on cylinder #3, which is a wired cylinder. I replaced the plugs and wanted to replace the ignition wires as part of my "tune up" since the car is now 9 years old and the parts were all original. When I went to the dealer I was shown the EPC which matches mine at home showing the wires and ends sold as pieces only, not the entire assembly...I'd hate to re-use 9 year old wire that's been baking under that cover if I can avoid it.

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Marty D.

2013 C300 4Matic
1984 BMW 733i
2013 Lincoln MKz

A wired plug misfire most likely fault is the resistor connector, not the wire. The wires are solid core.
And Beru are far better than OEM Bosch. If I just bought that car, my first ignition changeout would be new plug connector/resistors , [ specially the coil ones] and new plugs.