Dreaded Balance Shaft 2006 E350

[cgryphon]

My Bro got a check engine light on a 2006 E350 (M272). Dealer says "balance shaft". I think this applies to both the engine and his bank account!!!

Looking for a good Indy to do the work, location is LA CA. Close areas are Long Beach, Torrance, Redondo, Hermosa.

Any help or suggestions on good independent repair shops would be excellent!

Thanks,

Clay

[Hirnbeiss]

This one has good reviews Classic Star Mercedes Inc - 16 Photos - Auto Repair - Torrance - Torrance, CA - Reviews - Yelp

[ILUVMILS]

I understand you wanting to find a good indie to do the job but whatever you do, make sure the shop you decide on has done this job before, preferably several times. I know lots of good mechanics who have had fits trying to time the engine. It's also extremely important to follow the MB work instructions carefully, especially when it comes to the application the sealant on the valve covers and timing chain cover. Too little and you'll end up with leaks (not good). Too much and you'll end up with plugged oil passages (really not good!). The right amount and location of sealant is critical!!! There are also some special tools required so make sure the shop is properly equipped.

Let us know how things turn out......

[oldsinner111]

I don't know why MB can't admit to mistakes,and correct them.

[cgryphon]

Well, after several discussions with the dealer service manager, he quoted a price of $6,600. He tried (I believe him) to get MB to honor some type of warranty or discount, to arrive at this figure.

We consulted a couple of independent shops, who know the problem and don't understand why MB won't "admit" the issue. Both of their quotes were above $7,500.

Seems like the dealer is giving us the best possible price, free loaner for the duration of the repair, and also confidence that the job will be done with all correct parts and specs, so that's the way this one is going to go. Car is in the shop now, with expectation that it will be done in a week. As said above, too bad MB can't just admit the mistake and cover it.

Thanks for the responses.

Clay

[Volvo Diesel]

Originally Posted by cgryphon

As said above, too bad MB can't just admit the mistake and cover it.

I agree, too; however, it's possible that they might have to cover at least a portion of the cost as a result of the class action settlement, correct?
https://eclaim.kccllc.net/caclaimforms/mse/home.aspx

Given the likely approval of the proposed settlement, having the repair done at the dealer seems like a good idea. Keep the receipt wherever you decide to get the work done.... Did the service manager at the dealership mention that there may be some relief forthcoming as a result of the litigation? Just curious...

I'm sorry your brother is having to deal with this issue. My wife has an 2006 E350 wagon and I worry about it. Twenty-five years ago, I bet MB would have covered this...it's a different company now.

Hope the repair goes well....

[cgryphon]

Just wanted to close the thread.

The dealer stayed on time and on budget. He showed my Bro pics of the shaft that was replaced. Basically huge numbers of teeth were missing from the gears on the shaft. Probably not long before a catastrophic failure. Unfortunately I don't have the pic's so can't post them.

I had asked my Bro if the car was showing any symptoms. He said a few times it felt "off" when accelerating from a stop, but nothing really. Only the check engine light/data led him to seek repair.

Bottom line is that while expensive, it was probably best done at the dealer, as noted by previous posters. Car is running great.

Best quote from the service advisor addressing the cost of repair "you know, nobody said Mercedes was not proud of their cars."