So far I've ignored it (it's the 1997 C230 with the AC problem) . I do most maintenace so it rarely goes to the shop. I doubt I'll be able to solve this one myself, though. It got me through the HOT DC Summer last year hanging on til the first day of October. When it finally died, it was a relief not to hear the sound any more. Heater and defront work great, but no cold air. I'm at a cross roads as far as how to handle this one. My ideal solution would be to change in a new compressor myself, have the system charged and be on my way for little cost. I love this little car. It's fun to drive and has treated me well for 130,000 miles, but, depending on how involved this is, it may be the end of this one. I can't decide to bite the bullet and have it professionally fixed now, abondon it now, or suffer through this Summer and see where I am this time next year. I'm real interested to hear how you take care of yours.

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Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230