Thats a reasonable time.
I am sorry that I worried you.
Those rubber hoses normally cause running faults such as hunting at idle and other stuff too.
No apology needed, wasn't unduly worried as if the work was needed Ian Walkers nearby
I agree with all the comments esp about later models being better at a dealer. The indie I went to have a good reputation but mostly deal with older models, W124, W169, SL pagodas and the 80's model. With later models they rely on bulletins and advice from mercedes which isn't always forthcoming,
What I would rather have seen though was the indie mechanics looking over the car (10min job) after plugging the machine in rather than just shaking their heads and saying 'its the MAS mate'. No brains were engaged and that annoys me.
Interestingly though, the Dealers diagnosis was slightly more detailed than the indie's. The indies just came up that P code Self adaption, rich on part throttle etc. The dealers came up with another code hat was ongoing and not stored? that the indie was missing to the effect that on occasion the engine ran lean which would have highlighted an intake leak! I suppose on ocassion, Ollie and Ian B W an exception, you get what you pays at an indie.
On conclusion for servicing matters and known faults an indie would be the way to go, for complicated issues that require a) vehicle experience b) Mercedes central backup c) proper star sometimes a dealer may be the only option.
There is also the point that a good service manager will get the best out of the workshop boys, often an indie see's the bottom line (cash) and is not prepared to go the whole hog.
Again, I appreciate all the support, responses and comments.
Cheers
