I tried asking for some input a couple of days ago about repalcing brake discs and pads on an '03 E320 (52,000 Mi) and received one response....thanks Matt.
Is this brake job beyond the home mechanic due to special tools and conditions? If so, how much can I expect to pay for a four wheel brake service? Any help is appreciated.

The most IMPORTANT "thing" is caution..at dealer & many independent MB shops they use scanner to turn the system OFF to replace parts & then back on...

The system must be OFF or "asleep" to replace brake parts....
BE careful!

NEVER open bleeder to depress the calipers or you WILL have to take car to dealer to have the brakes BLED!!!

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Thanks for responding, Doc. I was hoping you would weigh-in on this question since you are probably the most knowledgable member of this site. Unless I have the proper scan tool, I am assuming you are telling me that this new (sensotronic) brake system is going to be beyond my scope. Can you give me a ballpark idea on what to expect as far as cost on a four-wheel disc and pad replacement? Thanks again for your input.

Notice that I mentioned that by letting the system "go to sleep" you can install brake parts...Send me a PM & I will suggest how to allow the SBC system to go to sleep.

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

There is a plug in tool that you can buy; it is made by Ate and it is called the SBS. I have attached the pdf http://www.ate.fotocentrum.de/ATE_DownloadPDF/136445.pdf and if you search the internet you will find the video showing you how to use the tool. That being said my local dealer has a special incl. SBC vehicles for brake pad change for 125. I have not been able to justify buying one of these b/c I only have 1 SBC vehicle and I have managed to just put 2000 miles over a year and a half.

I would figure 3 hours of labor + parts + bleed for changing all four brake discs and pads.

I checked out the website and the video for the ATE SBS tool. Does anybody have any experience with it? How much does it cost and where can I get one?

Also, does it allow you to bleed and/or flush the brake fluid as well?