Quote:
Originally Posted by MB_FanAddict
Never having owned a Bluetec w/DEF, I don't know if there are any TSBs out on the W212's DEF system or if there is in fact an updated/improved DEF tank. If it was my car I would find out if there was actually an updated part available, otherwise would just replace the heating element. I believe MB requires the DEF tank be flushed out at periodic intervals though. The NOx sensor of course, is what it is.
I will say I've found quotes from independent shops (at least in the Atlanta area) not all that cheaper from one of the dealers and then you have unknowns with aftermarket parts, little recourse when problems arise and often no loaner.
The article on the Stephens Service Center site has some good points I think (fuel additive use, engine oil flush with unknown maintenance history, air filter changes, software updates for the ECM, owners not wanting to properly maintain their vehicle), but I certainly don't agree with all of it. Like "Ignore the oil leaks. Continue to change the oil & air filters, but just drive it until it blows up" What kind of advice is that? Also, I feel some of the potential issues are blown way out of proportion unnecessarily scaring people.
For commercial or severe service a heavier weight HD oil may (or may not) be beneficial. There are 5w40 oils that would still protect the emissions system (FCA now recommends 5w40 Rotella T6 in the EcoDiesels), but I certainly would not advise using a 10W60 or 20W60 motorcycle oil!
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Appreciate your observations. Your first paragraph is EXACTLY what I have suggested! Still doing research on the oil. Some of that in the blog makes sense to me. All except the viscosity. Particularly for short trips around town that doesn't seem appropriate but then the basic weight cold weight should provide all the lubrication required without undue wear for any short, town driving. The heavier 'hot' weight seems appropriate for our summer desert heat also. Intriguing!
My last couple of diesels came from a dealership in the Sacramento area though factory delivered. One of their service advisors and "Asst. Service Mgr." was the goto guy for MB-USA for the Sprinter motorhomes being driven to Cali from the builders in the Midwest. They started having the same CEL problems in 2008. The guy is VERY knowledgeable and I've referred such problems from users on other forums to him. All have been quite pleased with results. He's on vacation now so I haven't had opportunity to talk to him but early on he discounted the cleaning out of the DEF tank and claimed never to have seen the crystallization of the DEF which folks claim has caused problems. I've seen nothing of it either though admittedly not able to see inside the tank, but none of the spillage, nor in the partially used bottles in my garage have ever shown evidence of the crystallization.
Thanks.