Thanks for the reply. I just had it serviced by a seasoned tech here in Houston named Benz by Blair. Last two years he's taken good care of the car. This happened within two weeks of having the valves adjusted and then of course the vacuum pmp. cratered. That's why a 2 year old newbie like me feels like I got a lemon? I'd like to be able to enjoy a MB rather than work on it constantly. Still have the climate center vent issue to deal with after this! thanks LH