It is unfortunately true that some Mercedes dealers don't have a good service department. It's a shame, but you can't assume because they're a dealer for your brand they will know anything about fixing your 20-year old diesel. In some parts of the world where diesels are and were less popular, the dealer may know even less. For older cars, an independent mechanic is preferable, especially one who has chosen to specialize in older cars of a particular marque.

It's really rather logical. A young mechanic, just starting out, is less likely to know the older cars. You will find him (her?) at the dealer, learning his trade. An older mechanic with the money, credit rating, contacts, and experience is the one who will have his own shop and he will know the older cars.

Jeremy

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"Buster" in the '95

Our all-Diesel family
1996 E300D (W210) . .338,000 miles Wife's car
2005 E320 CDI . . 113,000 miles My car
Santa Rosa population 176,762 (2022)
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,762
"Oh lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz."
-- Janis Joplin, October 1, 1970