Authorized service center, car service, workshop
You are free to choose where to apply. And in ordinary workshops, skilled craftsmen work, and some types of work and spare parts are cheaper here. In any case, it must be a reliable workshop.
A vehicle under warranty should be checked by an appropriate authorized service centre. You can fix minor damage to the paintwork or small defects on the body at any car service (workshop), however, in this case, you will not be able to claim under the warranty for repeated defects.
Setting up a repair task
Make a list of problems and damages that you want to fix. Discuss it in a car service with the main master. If something is not clear, ask questions right away. Show malfunctions or damage directly on the car.
Give clear repair tasks, do not limit yourself to general phrases, for example: «carry out a technical inspection». Don't pay for unnecessary work.
Coordination of the cost of work
Ask for an estimate of the cost of labor and materials before you issue a final repair order. Clearly discuss the limit of the increase in cost if additional work is necessary.
Ask about the cost of diagnostics. For example, if you need to find out why your car uses too much fuel or accelerates poorly, or why you hear extraneous noises.
Leave the car service a phone number where you can be contacted if questions arise during the repair that require coordination with you. Record your decisions in writing.
Ask for a written preliminary cost estimate of works and services, and upon completion, a detailed invoice. The car service invoice should not exceed the preliminary calculation by more than 20%.
Spare parts for an old car
When repairing an old car, ask about special offers on parts and services. Car services often offer original spare parts at discounted prices - this way you can save up to 30% of the payment amount.
If the entire unit needs to be replaced, it is not necessary to replace it with a new one. Ask about the possibility of installing a used unit that has been properly tested and has a guarantee. It can be an engine, generator, starter, water pump, etc.
Timely submission of a claim
The work performed must be provided with a 6-month warranty. Claims for poorly executed work must be filed immediately. If, after poor-quality repairs, damage or breakdowns occur in your car, you can demand that the car service repair them, and in case of refusal, file a claim with the court.
Verification and guarantee
1. When checking a car, first check the condition and operation of the components responsible for the reliability and safety of your car. If necessary, you have the right to demand their replacement.
2. If the mileage is less than 20,000 km, then components such as brake pads, suspension, tires and steering have wear that is imperceptible to the driver. Therefore, regular maintenance of your car will not only help keep it in excellent condition, but also ensure your safety.
3. Mercedes recommends routine maintenance every 20,000 km and major maintenance every 60,000 km at an authorized service center.
4. If your car's annual mileage is low (does not exceed 20,000 km), be sure to visit the service center once a year for maintenance.
5. If you drive a Mercedes, do not perform maintenance yourself. Mercedes-Benz will only honor warranty claims if the warranty work has been carried out on time and at a service centre.