Genuine Mercedes Parts: Drastically different Prices in the US vs. Europe?

[Screwdriver]

I've always found batteries to be same price or cheaper at the dealers than elsewhere although I'm sure others haven't?

Batteries at the dealer are almost exclusively Bosch/ Varta. While they don't come with the 5 year warranty that the aftermarket units do, you'll never need that coverage with the Mercedes branded units. I purchased mine in 2015 - still performs like new.

Filters are almost always German - Hengst, Mann, Bosch etc. If you are a Club member or a loyal customer, you'd be able to get 15% off, which makes buying from them very competitive on price and superior on quality.

 

[Bellow]

I recently received a quote from my MB Classic parts supplier for upper control arms for my Stroke 8 (76 240D). They were around ~£900 each!! When I checked Pelican parts, the exact control arm was £150 including Fedex economy postage to the UK (and below the customs charge threshold so exempt).

The Fedex delivery - was that a service offered by Pelican or did you have to arrange it? If the latter, how's it done?

 

[Screwdriver]

Pelican offers it for around £30 quid.