Yearly Archives: 2018

How to Replace Mercedes Benz Battery

For the DIY car enthusiast, battery replacement on a Mercedes-Benz is a fairly easy task to master. All you need is a replacement battery and a few basic tools. Beyond that, you need to locate where the battery is in the vehicle and know how to disconnect it to make way for the new one. Moreover, you need to know when it is time to make a replacement and the type of battery most suited for the vehicle. Read on to learn how to replace a battery in a Mercedes-Benz. Signs a Mercedes Battery Needs Replacement The most common sign a Mercedes-Benz is due for a battery replacement is when the vehicle is difficult to start each day. If it takes several seconds just to get the motor to power on after you turn the key, the battery is probably running out of life. If the engine sputters for several seconds as you turn the key, or the engine fails to start until the second or third try, the battery is probably hanging by its last thread. Alte ... read more

Mercedes-Benz Serpentine Belt Replacement

In a Mercedes-Benz, there are various components that make the engine operate. As you drive the vehicle along roads and highways and shift it up from first to fifth gear, the engine parts must communicate with one another. The question that is rarely answered, however, concerns how these various engine parts stay in motion while the vehicle is running. The fact is, there is one simple piece of rubber that connects these parts — and it is essential in a Mercedes. The part in question is the serpentine belt. What Is a Serpentine Belt? In a Mercedes-Benz, the serpentine belt is the engine part that connects various components in the engine sink. The belt itself is basically a long loop of rubber that provides tension between the air conditioner, the alternator, the power steering and the water pump, all of which are vital to the functionality of the vehicle. A serpentine belt is smooth on one side and grooved on the other. As a tensioning belt, it is hooked arou ... read more

Mercedes Drive Axle Boot Replacement

The rubber boots on your Mercedes drive axles are there to protect them from dirt and debris and avoid excess wear. A torn or missing boot allows dirt to accumulate on the wear surfaces of your axles (at the CV joints) and creates scratches and wear. In a short time, your worn axle components will affect the drivability of your Mercedes and create vibrations and shuddering that gets worse with time. To avoid these problems, it's important to have a trusted professional like our experts here at Burdi Motorworks inspect your Mercedes drive axle boots from time to time and replace them at the first sign of cracking or tearing. Properly greased and covered axles can last the lifetime of your vehicle, so don't let a small tear in your boots create major problems that can take your car out of service and cost thousands of dollars to repair. Replacement Frequency Mercedes doesn't list drive axle boots as a service item, meaning they should last the life of the vehicle. Damage ... read more

How to Tell If Your Mercedes Shocks Need to Be Replaced

Adequate shocks aren't simply a matter of comfort. While many drivers equate shock absorbers with ride comfort, they also play a key role in the handling, braking and general safety of your vehicle. Did you know your shocks can even affect your fuel economy and performance? Since your shocks and struts play such a prominent role in how your Mercedes Benz operates, it's helpful to be able to tell if your shocks are bad. Our team here at Burdi Motorworks has the experience to diagnose strut and shock issues with your Mercedes and make the necessary repairs. We've put together this list of warning signs that your shocks are bad and need to be replaced. Read the different signs and keep them in mind. At the first sign of ride, handling, braking or other suspension-related issues, contact us to schedule a service appointment so we can help you figure out what's wrong. Common Signs of Shock Problems All cars will eventually require strut and shock replacement. Over time ... read more

What Does It Mean When Your Mercedes RS Light Stays On?

Airbags (also called SRS or Supplemental Restraint Systems) have been standard equipment on Mercedes models for decades. The newest models come with front airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as an assortment of airbags the protect from side impacts and leg injuries. Your Mercedes Benz vehicle monitors your SRS function at all times and displays a warning indicator on the dash to let you know if the system is malfunctioning. It is important to make note if your SRS light is on and have your airbags serviced right away. When your SRS light is on, some or all of your airbags may not be armed and ready to protect you in case of an accident. Our team here at Burdi Motorworks is a Chicago-area leader in Mercedes and Sprinter service and repair and has the tools, knowledge and experience to diagnose your SRS problems and make all necessary repairs. Spotlight on Air ... read more