I was too. But the use of the proper fuel additives, antifreeze, and motor oil in our cars isn't.
We all, as members here, have a greater responsibility than personal ego and an interest in being "right". That greater responsibility is to provide as unbiased of data as we can to those who will innocently come after us to these forums seeking answers. (Use the search feature...)
Regardless of what you may feel that the owner's manual may indicate to you, or anyone may interpret it as indicating, I firmly believe that Mercedes Antifreeze Anticorrosion Agent, Mercedes-Benz Part # Q 1 03 0002, is the finest cooling system additive made in the world today, and only Valvoline 5/150 may even come close to it. And the use of diesel fuel additives enhances the operation of our older diesel fueled Mercedes automobiles by providing added cetane improvers, better lubricity, enhanced system cleaners, and better overall performance. Mercedes doesn't officially endorse the use of ANY additives, but the local dealer carries Redline and suggests that owners of all Mercedes Diesels use it as a fuel additive because it works...
Remember, the manual was written with the guidance of German corporate lawyers over 20 years ago...
Folks, do your own research! Come to your own conclusions!
http://www.redlineoil.com
As for me, I use Mann, Mahle, Knecht, and Bosch filtration, Mobil 1 engine lubrication, Redline in the differential and the transmision, and a 1/3 bottle shot of Redline 85+ at every fuel fill-up. And when I replace the existing crappy radiator shortly, and refill the engine cooling system, I will be using Mercedes branded Antifreeze Anticorrosion Agent with a 60/40 mix of demineralized water.
And no one paid me to say that!