An oil change is very important in any car as it helps to get rid of excess dirt that can build up in your engine. So, changing the oil as recommended by the manufacturer helps to keep the engine stay clean and running efficiently. But why are Mercedes oil changes so expensive?
Mercedes-Benz oil changes are expensive because of the quality of the oil, high fuel capacity, a complex method for changing the oil, additional services, and Mercedes dealership. All of these factors make changing oil in a Mercedes to be quite expensive.
Factors making Mercedes oil change to be expensive?
Quality of the oil
All vehicles that are made in Germany are required to use fuels that meet or surpass European (ACEA) specifications with the ratings of A3/B3 or A3/B4. In most cases, these are synthetic oils that are costlier than conventional motor oils. Nonetheless, synthetic oils are more durable and provide enhanced performance than motor oil.
Mercedes-Benz has even gone further as it requires its customers to use fuel that meets 229.5 specifications. Therefore, the high price of fuel also contributes to the high cost of the Mercedes-Benz oil change.
High fuel capacity
Another factor that contributes to the high cost of the Mercedes oil change is the high fuel capacity. Since fuel tanks of Mercedes are larger than those of most conventional vehicles, more fuel is required to fill them. As a result, more oil has to be filled up to match the fuel capacity, which pushes the price to be higher as well.
For example, the fuel capacity for Ford Fiesta is 43-liters, while that of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is 50 liters. This means that you will need more oil to fill up your Mercedes when compared to the Ford Fiesta. So, more money will be spent.
A complex method for changing the oil
The method of changing the oil in a Mercedes-Benz is quite complex than in conventional cars. Unlike conventional cars that need draining oil out of the pan, Mercedes requires emptying the oil from the engine. This is a very tedious process that will take more time and money.
Besides, this complex procedure requires a professional to do it with expensive vacuum equipment. Thus, all of these things add up to the overall cost of the changing oil. What’s more, this is one of the reasons DIYers find it difficult to change the oil in Mercedes cars.
Additional services offered
Unlike traditional cars, a Mercedes oil change entails more than just changing oil. It also involves inspecting or even changing parts like oil filters, air filters, and fuel filters. If these parts are in bad condition, the mechanic has to change them with new ones. As a result, this adds to the overall cost.
Mercedes-Benz dealership
One of the most challenging things about owning a Mercedes-Benz is visiting a Mercedes authorized dealer. Yes, these dealers have the right personnel with the right knowledge and tools, but they charge a fortune to have your car repaired or make simple maintenance tasks such as an oil change.
However, if you want to save some cash, you can visit a reliable and competent automotive dealer with Mercedes knowledge. Such repair shops or experts are quite cheaper, but they may also lack the necessary tools and knowledge to handle your Mercedes perfectly. So, it’s a bargain.
FAQ
How often should I change the oil in my Mercedes?
A Mercedes oil change is costlier than an oil change in conventional cars. However, unlike traditional cars, Mercedes don’t require an oil change after every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. On the contrary, Mercedes needs an oil change every 10,000 miles.
What is the average cost of an oil change for a Mercedes-Benz?
If you’re planning to have an oil change for your Mercedes, expect to pay between $200 and $450. This is way above the industry average of between $30 and $40. According to this comparison, you will pay almost 10 times more, which is pretty much.
Why is the Mercedes service so expensive?
Mercedes service is so expensive because their cars need specialized care and parts. That’s why Mercedes always recommends its customers to visit a Mercedes-Benz authorized dealer. Some people take a shortcut and acquire aftermarket parts, which don’t last as long as OEM parts.
When you compare the Mercedes service to its fellow German counterpart, you will find that Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen are much cheaper to maintain. The only German brand that is more expensive to service than Mercedes is BMW. Annually, you may have to spend close to $900, which is above the industry average of $650.
Do I have to make an oil change at a Mercedes-Benz Dealership?
No, you don’t have to. You can take your Benz to an automotive repair shop or a mechanic you desire. Typically, Mercedes dealerships make people believe that the normal mechanics or auto repair shops don’t have the tools, equipment, and skills to handle Mercedes-Benz, but that’s a lie.
However, since most Mercedes tools are quite costly and the method of changing oil is complex, it is recommended to have your car repaired at an authorized dealer. What’s more, if anything goes wrong with your car, you may void your warranty if you took your Benz to an independent auto repair shop.
Do Mercedes need special oil?
Yes, Mercedes don’t need to use special oil. Apart from Mercedes recommending its customers to use synthetic oil and not motor oil, the oil has to meet Mercedes 229.5 specifications. This means that the oil has to be of the highest quality, which also drives the price up.
Bottom line
Mercedes oil is so expensive because they use synthetic oil, instead of traditional motor oil. Additionally, the quality of the oil is better than that recommended by the European (ACEA) specifications. Besides, Mercedes requires more oil to fill than traditional cars. What’s more, the method for adding oil is more complex.
When you consider all factors, you will find that the cost of the Mercedes-Benz oil change is worthwhile. Aside from that, Mercedes is a luxury car that needs the best quality oil to run smoothly and efficiently.