In 1998, after over 100 years of success, Mercedes Benz abandoned their basic maintenance service program. They replaced it with the very vague "Flexible Service System" utilizing the "A Service" and "B Service" designations. This program has given the illusion of long term preventive maintenance by selling the "A Service" as a "Minor" and the "B Service" as a "Major". In reality, neither is as comprehensive as the long standing Mercedes "Minor Service". The only thing major about this service program is the exorbitant price. More importantly, there are no set intervals with this program for: Transmission, Transaxle, Differential, Power Steering, Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs, and Air Filter servicing. As a consequence of this system, Mercedes owners are experiencing unscheduled repair stops and unnecessary expensive breakdowns.

Up through 1997, these items (and more) were serviced every 30,000 miles. Synthetic fluids and platinum spark plugs were introduced on most Mercedes in 1998. However, in spite of these improvements, we know from observation that unneeded failures begin showing up around 80,000 miles. Therefore, on these newer models, we are recommending a major service interval of 60,000 miles. It has been implied by the marketing department of Mercedes (and other makes), that newer cars need nothing but an occasional oil change for 100,000 miles. Experience proves otherwise.

The classic 30K Major averaged $900, or about $1,800 every 60,000 miles. For the newer models, our 60K Major is actually less expensive overall, in spite of the $900 to $1,600 sticker shock (cost varies with model). For those who want their Benz to continue reliably for 200,000 miles and more; long term preventive maintenance is the key.

P.S. Mercedes has recently ditched the "Flexible Service System" and reinstated set mileage oil change intervals. Hopefully, they will also return to a simple major service.