We recently had our '92 190E 2.3 in the garage for the #4 service (I like to take it in every other service interval so that another set of eyes can look it over) and the mechanic said that "the head gasket is leaking oil". I assume he means on the outside of the head since I can see some trickle marks.

My question - does the gasket have to be replaced (RIGHT NOW?!?) or can it be torqued to alleviate the problem? If this is no more than a keep-your-engine-clean situation I'm not too worried (although I like to have things tidy under the hood) but if it could create a serious mechanical failure, I want it handled NOW!

Any thoughts?



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Jay Yambrovich
1989 300 E
1992 190-E 2.3

Since these engines have stretch bolts, they can't be re-torqued. You are OK as long as there is no oil in the coolant. An external oil leak will not hurt the engine.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1991 GMC Syclone
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Be sure he didn't mean the valve cover gasket. These can be leaky as well, especially with high mileage.. Wouldn't want to buy a head gasket job unless it was needed.

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Jeff Lawrence
1987 300e
1989 300e
2000 Dodge Grand Caravan SE

benzmac:
what if theres a oil in the coolant?what should i do.I also have this same problem with my 93 190e 2.6

What do you mean by R&R the head?sorry.thanx

thanx blackmercedes,do you have estimate price for changing the head gasket?what is the ride difference between your w201 and w202.thanx

I think it is wise to change the valve guide/seals if you gonna change the head gasket right?do you mean $1500 for the head gasket and the head.thanx