5 /5 Tom Wagner: My 97 Mercedes E300D is approaching 220k and both she and the generation of mechanics familiar with her little ways are aging out of the fleet. Zentrums Joe and his mechanics have been a lifeline to keep this aging workhorse fit and roadworthy. Yes, major components--like the transmission 2.5 years ago)--are failing and are increasingly expensive to R&R. But where else am I going to find a large, comfy sedan these days that gets 40+ freeway mpg on bio or renewable diesel for less than the down-payment on a new microcar. Shop rates look far more reasonable in that context--- independent shop rates, that is. The cost to repair at dealership rates would have seen her scrapped long ago.
Joe is sympathetic, honest, communicates well, and stands by his shops work. Turnaround has occasionally been slow, but understandable given the diagnostic challenges a 28-year old car can produce. If they can do so well for me and my cranky old dowager, think what they can do for your sexy new MB/BMW zoomster.
