Keep Your Mercedes-Benz Running Strong
Mercedes-Benz is known for producing high-end luxury vehicles. While most models are quite durable, a lack of routine servicing can lead to reliability issues. Here’s how to keep your Mercedes-Benz performing at its best.
Change the Oil Regularly
If you want your Mercedes-Benz to last, always change your oil at the recommended intervals. Neglecting to do so can have some serious consequences. Accelerating engine wear is the biggest problem that occurs if one ignores maintenance intervals from the manufacturer. The latest models, built in the last 10 years, require an oil change every 10,000 miles.
The overwhelming majority of Mercedes-Benz vehicles need premium synthetic oil. In an effort to cut costs, some Asheville drivers opt to use conventional motor oil. Unfortunately, this mistake often ends up causing them more money in the long run. Conventional motor oil tends to break down far sooner, which means it must be changed more frequently.
Routine Tune-Ups
It’s typically recommended for Mercedes-Benz owners to have the spark plugs changed every 30,000 miles. When the spark plugs begin to deteriorate, you can expect to encounter a few noticeable performance issues. Rough idling and sluggish acceleration are two of the most common symptoms. Along with the loss of performance comes decreased fuel economy.
If you neglect to get a tune-up, even more problems can arise. Unburned fuel can escape into the catalytic converter, which ultimately leads to this part needing to be replaced. Keep in mind that the average cost of a new Mercedes-Benz catalytic converter is more than $1,000.
Have the Drive Belts Routinely Inspected
Drive belts are among the most critical components of a Mercedes-Benz. They are responsible for transferring power to essential parts, such as the water pump and alternator. If a worn drive belt suddenly snaps, you will likely be stranded on the side of the road. Your only option will be to call for a tow.
Most belts are rated to last for around 40,000. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to have your belts and pulleys inspected at every oil change. Large cracks and stretched rubber indicate the belt is on its last leg. Meanwhile, bad pulleys often begin to become noisy.
Maintain a Good Battery Connection
Contrary to common belief, there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free battery. In order for your Mercedes-Benz to run smoothly, the battery needs to remain in good condition. Mechanics recommend cleaning the battery posts and terminals at least twice a year. This helps prevent corrosion from building up. Remember, heavy corrosion can cause the same symptoms as a dead battery.
Modern automotive batteries have an expiration date. As your battery ages, it’s more likely to fail. Aside from making your vehicle harder to start, a weak battery can also cause intermittent electrical problems. Don’t wait to get a replacement.
Prevent Engine Overheating
It’s important to keep your Mercedes-Benz running at the optimum temperature. Engine overheating can be especially damaging. As soon as your temperature gauge starts to rise above normal levels, pull over immediately. This can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Engine overheating can be caused by a wide range of different things. While you could be dealing with a failed radiator fan or bad water pump, the root of the problem is more likely a low level of coolant. There’s a leak somewhere in the system.
Top up the coolant until you can have the problem professionally repaired. Never refill the coolant reservoir with regular tap water. This can cause major rust issues. The best mixture is 50/50 concentrated antifreeze with distilled water.
Change the Air Filter
An air filter is a simple component. Its sole purpose to prevent dust and debris from getting inside the engine. When the air filter becomes dirty, your Mercedes-Benz won’t feel nearly as powerful when accelerating.
A good rule of thumb is to install a new air filter every 30,000 miles. However, models equipped with a turbocharger may need to have this service performed more often.