I was driving my 98 e320 4matic, and was low on gas headed to the gas station from out of town. two blocks from the station it began to run rough, one block from the station the check engine electronics came on... and it ran out of gas and died in the parking lot of the station. I rolled it to the gas pump and put some gas in it... assuming this would solve my problems...

it continued to run a bit rough, though better... but the check light remained, so i took it in to the dealership to be on the safe side- not wanting to do any further damage.

they say i need new spark plugs and wires which could cost upwards of $900... though the car ran like a dream up until that unfortunate evening. could that be coincidence? or what? help me out here. and if it is plugs and/or wires (which should last a lot longer, right?) i can definitely buy and change them myself for much cheaper?

thanks
ap