My 'New to me' SL 500 R230 has just has a nice service, I think that it was good value?

[EndlessMoneyPit]

Indy’s don’t have the time to shop round looking for deals/sales on parts (for you) . If they have an account with MB they have a one stop shop with fast delivery with parts guaranteed to fit your car .

That makes sense, thanks (and I wouldn't expect them to shop around for me, either). I've never asked them to fit a part I've supplied but I've certainly done that with my regular all-makes garage. They tend to use pattern parts otherwise.

Apologies to OP, didn't mean to derail.

 

[W1ghty]

That makes sense, thanks (and I wouldn't expect them to shop around for me, either). I've never asked them to fit a part I've supplied but I've certainly done that with my regular all-makes garage. They tend to use pattern parts otherwise.

Apologies to OP, didn't mean to derail.

Threads always get derailed

 

[pioneercollector]

Not a problem at all - I was reading with interest!

 

[TDE1again]

FWIW, my indy (ex MB tech) also sources direct from MB. As previous poster said, it's easier for them.
But.. if I suggest I supply the parts, they'll happily tell me who to look for depending on the item. Lemforder, Febi, perhaps Meyle, etc.
I'm ordering a Febi driveshaft coupling or two - £70ish each, compared to MB @ £200 each.
OP, your bill seemed fair, given the new plugs and ATF flush.

 

[ray_hennig]

a Febi driveshaft coupling or two - £70ish each

I had those from Febi and they were fine, being made by SGF in Germany. But, in general, I'd avoid Febi and Meyle.

I just received a rear control arm set from Lemfoerder. Some bits made in Turkey, some in Germany. The box stated, "Made in Germany" so not 100% true. However, I'm happy enough.

RayH