SLK 230 steering damper

[geoffd]

Hi

At my last service about four months ago, the tech added an advisory note to the service report stating that the steering damper was leaking slightly and that it should be replaced *soon* - when questioned this was refined to 'before the next service' - which in my case could be well into 2008.

So can anyone answer the following :

1 Is this an MOT item ? The MOT is due next month.

2. What does it do, and what effect is shown when it leaks, is worn or fails.

3. Where is it, what does it look like and is changing it a DIY job ?

4. If not DIY, how much ? The servicing dealer quoted about £150 including the part, which sounds to me like something fairly quick/easy.

Thanks

Geoff

 

[stats007]

Normally about £30 to buy and are easy to fit. They damp the feedback from the wheels to the steering from jarring etc. It looks like a two-foot long black stick attached in parallel usually to the steering arms under the front of the car.

 

[Will]

Yep I'd say it's definately a DIY-able job, it's only held in with two bolts - 20 mins max?

So £30 for the part and a few minutes of your time or £150 (£120 labour)?

I'd take the first option

Will

 

[grober]

Here's a post with pics on the w202 steering damper. http://mbclub.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=28562&highlight=steering+damper
If you have the first model of SLK i.e. W170 then the chassis is very similar. part no is 1244630432 but check this with MB parts.
Since this is a steering component (albeit a non essential one) I would entrust the job to a professional mechanic unless you are an experienced DIY man. You don't have to pay mercedes rates. Any small reputable garage could do this for you- cheaper if you supply the part ready for them. As has been said the job is easy PROVIDED you have easy access to the underside of the car- ramps -lift- inspection pit, otherwise very awkward/ almost impossible.