Can anyone verify that you can or cannot replace the shocks on a C280 without compressing/removing the spring???

On my car the shock and spring are seperate and it appears that you maybe able to just loosen the shock and install a new one.

Thanks.

Yes you can remove front shock absorber without removing spring BUT when you removing the uper shock absorber mountig the vehicle must standing on its wheels.

__________________
MB STARS Master Guild Technician,17 years MB tech
14 years independent shop owner

So if I understand correctly, I can loosen the lower mount of the shock with the tire raised on a jack, then lower it to the normal on the ground postion and loosen the upper mount under the hood?

Does this also apply to the rear or does the spring need to come out?

Thank you for your help.

I changed both front shocks on my 94 C280 by raising the front of the car and supporting the control arm with a floor jack. I then unbolted the bottom of the shock - 2 wrenches needed - then unbolted the top from the engine bay. I then lowered the floor jack a bit and slid the shock out. To install, i compressed the new shock a bit then put it in place and bolted it up. Very easy, as was the rear.

__________________
1997 C36 Designo Red
1999 SLK230 Sport
1999 Honda CRV 5-spd

1990 Acura Integra (given away!)
1995 Mazda Miata Merlot SE (sold)
2003 Honda Element EX 4WD (sold)
1994 C280 - (sold)
1985 190e 2.3 5spd (sold)
1991 Yamaha FZR1000 (sold)
1994 MB S420 (sold)
1994 BMW 318ica (sold)
1991 Mazda Miata BRG SE (sold)
1989 Fiat Spyder (Died!)