Questions and Answers

Do I Really Need This Work? Q. I am looking for a book for the consumer that would help me to know how important the 'suggestions' of my auto repairman are. He has suggested replacing lower ball joints ($375) Tie rods, drag link, and steering shock ($420), for a MBZ 1986 with 200,000 miles on it.

I don't know if it has been done before. I am the new owner of this vehicle. It is an independent repairman, not the dealer. Can you help me to figure out if this is just a helpful repair, a needed one or an absolutely necessary repair for the safety of my wife that drives the car.

I can't thank you enough!!
Kent

A. I don't know if there is such a book Kent. The general rule of thumb is that safety related items are the most important to repair as soon as possible. By safety related items I mean lights, brakes, tires, steering and suspension. These items are directly related to the safety of the occupants of the vehicle.

Since all the items you list are steering parts, it would be imperative to replace them if there are, indeed, needed. If there is a doubt about if the repairs are really needed, you can go to another shop and get a second opinion.

In general parts for a Mercedes (I'm assuming when you say MBZ it is a Mercedes Benz) are more expensive then other cars, so you can expect to pay more for a repair on it.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA