Who said they don't make them like they used to?

[kevinC]

My 2000 E320 has about 83,000 miles. All scheduled service has been performed by the dealer. I've just been advised by a reliable independent that the slipping transmission should be replaced and the under car rattle is a bad cat which should be replaced as well. I'm out of warranty...and will visit dealer Tuesday and have him look at everything. If the independent is correct, should I expect Mercedes to participate in the repair cost??? After all, a transmission with no maintenance requirements (100,000 mile fluid) shouldn't be failing at this mileage, warranty or not..
Comments?
Thanks