W211 sbc

[saff]

Hi,

I'm new to everything Mercedes but I have been studying the issues with pre-facelift W211 SBC. I wasn't aware of the existence of this before buying my car but would have maybe gone for a later face lifted model if I'd been aware.

Anyhow, I have no issues with the system at present (touch wood) but can't help thinking that this will be 'when' rather than an 'if'. It seems rather like having a ticking time-bomb with no way of knowing when it will go off.

Looking at my SBC unit it seems to have been manufactured in January 2006 which is in keeping with the May 2006 reg date of my car.

As I understand it there is no way of knowing if the unit has been 're-set' without a Star readout. It may be good for another 10 years or may require attention next week.

My own thoughts are that it would be better to have it renewed rather than re-set, if that were possible, but the cost seems to be a bit scary. What is the general consensus of owners on here?

Great car though!

Cheers Steve

 

[merc85]

You will get a warning before threshold is reached. I'd wait until this displays.

 

[AMGeed]

^ +1
Why replace a unit that still has life left in it? Put by about £1k for eventual replacement in the event the "count" cannot be reset.
Also, if you are prepared to source the pump yourself from Bosch Germany and use an indy, the job can be done for under £1k. Use a dealer and its more like £1500.

Have a read of one members experience and eventual outcome. It's a long read but worthwhile.

http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/whee...on/189273-w211-possible-sbc-pump-failure.html

 

[saff]

Thanks merc85 & AMGeed.

I'll assume a re-set is viable if possible but not too fazed by the cost for replacement if not more than about £1.5K

I will of course wait for the the impending threshold warning.

Thanks again

 

[John]

Treat it like a consumable that is done once in the lifetime of your particular car.

For me - I've saved over £1000 from having the £280 tax band anyway - and this system when working is ridiculously good so worth having.

 

[saff]

The brakes on this car are way better than any other car I've owned. I guess owning a premium brand car is never going to be cheap but the quality is way better than run of the mill brands.