E320CDI 2007 Facelift Front Suspension Collapse due to Driver Side Shock absorber lower spring holder failure.

[Stocho]

Hi,

I have suspension collapse that appears to be due to front driver side lower spring cap that is part of shock absorber collapsing. Drove a bit around the town before understanding what is the issue and then back. Steering left absolutely fine. When doing full lock to the right there is a bit of noise I presume tyre catches on outer wheel arch edge.

Would welcome opinions on things such as:
1. Is it just shock absorber (one or both sides) that need replacing or spring as well?
2. Based on the pictures isn't everything there very rusty? Is there anything sound to even attach a shock absorber to?
3. Has further damage been done by driving several miles up to 30mph? (Every tiny unevenness in the road was felt really hard.)
4. My usual specialist is 40-50 miles away. Would RAC take my car to them? Is it a job for a specialist or simple enough for any garage especially the type that probably would see me today such as F! autocentres?
5. Can car be driven to the garage and if so what is the maximum distance? Would driving it even short distances / at low speed damage the car by over-stressing shock absorber mounting points?

Thanks a lot for any advice!

 

[gusferlizi]

That happens to all of them. It's just the spring that snapped. Best not to drive. New Sachs springs about £45 each or £70 each from Mercedes. An hour labour to fit both sides usually.

The shock looks ok.

 

[OneForTheRoad]

If you go down the new shocks/springs road , make sure to note the position of the small ring type clip that holds the cup in position. Otherwise the ride height will go all to pot.

 

[gusferlizi]

If you go down the new shocks/springs road , make sure to note the position of the small ring type clip that holds the cup in position. Otherwise the ride height will go all to pot.

Need inspection of course, but by the looks those shocks would go another 5+ years

 

[OneForTheRoad]

Need inspection of course, but by the looks those shocks would go another 5+ years

They look rotten to me , if I was doing the springs I'd change the shocks . It's an 07 . But that's just me

Id also be lubing the height adjustment ball joints , they look well rusted too.

Don't drive too far in it , in theory you've no suspension now on that side.

 

[W1ghty]

That headlight levelling arm looks like it’s not got long left , get some grease all over it .

 

[DSM10000]

Hi,

I have suspension collapse that appears to be due to front driver side lower spring cap that is part of shock absorber collapsing. Drove a bit around the town before understanding what is the issue and then back. Steering left absolutely fine. When doing full lock to the right there is a bit of noise I presume tyre catches on outer wheel arch edge.

Would welcome opinions on things such as:
1. Is it just shock absorber (one or both sides) that need replacing or spring as well?
2. Based on the pictures isn't everything there very rusty? Is there anything sound to even attach a shock absorber to?
3. Has further damage been done by driving several miles up to 30mph? (Every tiny unevenness in the road was felt really hard.)
4. My usual specialist is 40-50 miles away. Would RAC take my car to them? Is it a job for a specialist or simple enough for any garage especially the type that probably would see me today such as F! autocentres?
5. Can car be driven to the garage and if so what is the maximum distance? Would driving it even short distances / at low speed damage the car by over-stressing shock absorber mounting points?

Thanks a lot for any advice!

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Any competent garage should be able to change the Spring. Best to order one from Mercedes via the VIN to ensure you get the correct part.

I would not drive the car , it isn't safe and you may invalidate your insurance plus you are at risk of the police stopping you as it is unroadworthy.

As for the RAC recovering it. I imagine it depends on your cover, ask them, we wouldn't know. When a spring broke on my W211 my breakdown service (Green flag) did recover the car to my MB Independent.