2002 E430 - Difference between Radiator Choices

[jgl1]

2002 E430 (210.070, 113.840) - vehicle came from the factory equipped with a 210 500 68 03 radiator, manufactured by Behr. EPC shows that same number as being the correct part but my dealer informs me the number has been superceded to 210 500 12 03. The dealer can provide no information as to the difference between these two parts, other than saying that when M-B changes or improves a part the number typically goes higher.

The dealer further states the old number is still available Stateside but if I choose to go with the new number, the part would have to come from Germany. The price is the same, for either unit. Any reason to go with the radiator coming out of Germany?

[ESchwab]

I don't know about the part numbers. I just want to say that I got a very good price on line from www.mercedespartscenter.com for a radiator for my car. The phone number is 1-800-587-4863. It is the on-line sales by Aristocrat Motors in Merriam, Kansas 66203, a Mercedes dealer. I have a '98 E300.

[Hirnbeiss]

The 68 03 is, to my knowledge, the correct part for the facelift model (after MY '00). I think the old one, 12 03, is a few mm shorter but still fits - in any case, it's advertised as a suitable fit.
You can validate by checking in EPC net - my subscription expired.

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

Originally Posted by jgl1

2002 E430 (210.070, 113.840) - vehicle came from the factory equipped with a 210 500 68 03 radiator, manufactured by Behr. EPC shows that same number as being the correct part but my dealer informs me the number has been superceded to 210 500 12 03. The dealer can provide no information as to the difference between these two parts, other than saying that when M-B changes or improves a part the number typically goes higher.

The dealer further states the old number is still available Stateside but if I choose to go with the new number, the part would have to come from Germany. The price is the same, for either unit. Any reason to go with the radiator coming out of Germany?

In case you ever need a new radiator, we have both versions on site - no need for shipping from Germany


-Dmitry