S500 W221 - Lower Arm & Anti Roll Bar Replacement: Breaker MB v aftermarket...

[rashdownonline]

Hi.

Hope you're all doing great!

First time here, so please excuse some stupidity on my part!

I've just acquired a 2007 S500 with 84k on the clock with a really decent and comprehensive history.

It needs a bit of TLC and some suspension work.

An inspection brought up a couple of things that really do need looking at:

• Play in both front lower suspension arm outer ball joints.
• Front anti roll bar bushes perished.

I've got estimates from my local MB Specialist, and am also going out to other independents (I need all fluids changed too as part of the exercise).

I'm curious to consider the group's thoughts on using MB Specialist supplied salvaged parts (with 3 month warranty). Could be helpful if the independents are OK to fit parts I supply. There'll always be a risk with 2nd hand but on teh other hand, they may have plenty of life left in them. Then there's aftermarket (are they "on a par" with MB?).

I'd welcome your thoughts.

Thanks.

 

[DSM10000]

Welcome to the forum. Personally I would not be fitting salvaged suspension parts. There is no way to know what condition they are in and they are safety related items.

It would be worth checking with Mercedes as to the cost of the parts, they can sometimes be good value. After market parts (Lemforder are one) can be very good quality but there is also a market in fake parts so be careful.

Like everything there is a range of prices and quality. Ask yourself how long have the original parts lasted and then make a judgement on their value for money.

Cheap parts or unknown used parts may not last and then you are going through the expense of refitting. Do you have a local MB specialist that you can discuss this with?

 

[Trickythemerc]

Second hand suspension parts are a bit of a gamble. I would never even consider used control arms Etc. My choice of brand is Lemforder every time, despite the mad prices. Getting an indi to fit used parts could be a problem, mine will not do it. MB stuff is pricey and mostly made by third parties.

 

[TeddyRuxpin]

Buy lemforder parts, new!

 

[rashdownonline]

Thanks all. I'm with you re: risk of "used" suspension parts. Thanks.