Shop prices are always all over the place. The key to an accurate quote is the degree of REAL knowledge that the repair shop has for diagnosis and proper repair of 560SL issues. The M-B dealer shop (if they have been around for over 20 years) is hopefully most familiar with your car, and would therefore provide a good diagnosis. M-B dealers, while usually very honest, are notoriously expensive. I would not trust the independent shop unless they had a good reputation for knowledge and repair of the 560SL. I recommend that you try and find a local independent that works on these cars. Ask around. Also let us know where you are located, as many members know about reputable independents. Get a quote from one of them. It does not hurt to build a relationship with a good shop...it pays dividends. Good luck with your new car!