The Mercedes Benz line of automobiles has been hailed as one of the top rated in terms of longevity. The German engineering might have something to do with it, but typically it has a lot to do with Mercedes owners caring for their cars.
Eventually, the inevitable will happen; you'll have to give your Mercedes repair. Indianapolis or Berlin, it doesn't matter where you're from. These tips to maintain and care for your car are above borders and can drive you to 155,000 miles and beyond.
Think coolant.
The proper antifreeze mixture will lower the freezing point of water and raise its boiling point. You can pick up antifreeze in either pre-diluted bottles or straight antifreeze to mix yourself. Green is fine, but not for your Mercedes. It's best recommended to use the pale orange solution.
Mercedes manufactures a special mix containing additives that neutralize the pH in the coolant. This wards off engine block, radiator, and engine head corrosion. Although a brand of antifreeze claims to be formulated for Mercedes, only the Mercedes official coolant contains all the necessary buffers. The cost for the Mercedes antifreeze may be double per gallon over the cost of the cheaper green antifreeze.
It's also recommended to drain and change the coolant every twenty four months.
Think lubricant.
The debate looms on over standard oil versus synthetic oil, but if yours is a Mercedes built after 1998 and has the Flexible Service System, the decision has been made for you: synthetic oil only.
Which is probably fine, if the increased cost of synthetic over standard isn't enough to ruin your day. There are a few advantages of the synthetic to consider, but mainly, synthetic oil remains a liquid down to 60 below zero Fahrenheit and remains thick and filmy at extreme high temperatures, something to help you avoid major repairs. Extreme climates, whether hot or cold, make synthetic oil the only real option.
The synthetic oil reduces wear on the mechanical parts greatly as well. Depending on a variety of internal computer factors, your Mercedes may not require oil changes at a frequent interval, whereby saving you even though the cost per quart is nearly triple that of standard oil.
Think power.
Especially important in the late fall, you must be sure to prepare your Mercedes for the winter, and that definitely includes the battery and vehicle lighting. If your battery needs charging from time to time in the warmer days, you can expect it to fail you on the colder days.
The reasons aren't clear, but original factory batteries tend to last longer than replacements. Some basic checks will help you avoid a dark night of being stranded. Make sure the terminals are free, tight, and clean. Make sure the acid levels are at the mark. If not, be sure to have it tested to find out what's lacking.
As for lighting, too often vehicles are running with burned out bulbs and non-functioning signals. You shouldn't trust any kind of warning mechanism. Instead, routinely check the outside lights and interior lights for missing bulbs. You can find a list of what should be lit inside and out at the different ignition stages and under various circumstances at your Mercedes dealer's website.
When it comes to keeping your Mercedes in the long-life lane, it's important to think: about the coolant, about the lubricant, and about the power. Knowing the right antifreeze is protecting your engine, the right oil is performing for you, and the right charge is in the battery, is most of the battle. Rely on these steps to ensure you won't need a major repair anytime soon.
Douglas Scott loves his car and finds auto service in Indianapolis to be the best in the world. For more information on fine European cars visit EuroMotorworks.com
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