I recently bought a Mercedes C class…
I recently bought a Mercedes C class 200d Estate. Its a nice car, 2017, 1 owner, 22500 miles. 2 weeks later the engine management light came on. I phoned 'Benza', spoke to Tony Davies, the Director. After quite a long chat he explained that because the car was driving perfectly, I should 'keep an eye on it, it may clear itself if you have a couple of decent motorway runs'. He explained that it most probably would be the EGR (Engine gas recirculator) valve. This is a modern device the purpose of which is to reduce the Nox emissions. It comes into effect on long runs.
So, a lot of info, no charge. A week later, the car dropped into 'Limp Mode' i.e max about 30 mph to protect the engine.
So, handed the car over to Benza. They did diagnostic checks which revealed that there had been a fault, which had appeared to correct itself.
At the same time the car was M.oT'd - Pass.
92 miles later, incuding 2 motorway runs, the EML came on again. Back to Benza. More diagnostic checks. Another self correcting fault.
Tony did smoke tests, for leaks, more diagnostics.
He was reluctant to begin replacing parts, EGR valves, etc. So, right now, we hope it'll be fine. He insisted that there was no charge for the second check, the first was only £45. I'm sure he will sort this problem, if it does return. He has listed several possible faults - we will see. I recommend this garage because of their modus operandi - fix it, repair it, don't waste the customer's cash by easily replacing parts.
Robert Swift
25 March 2021
Unprompted review
