I am about to perform maintenance on my 2001 E320 that has 45k miles. I will be replacing the charcoal filter, spark plugs, and replacing the brake fluid, pads, and rotors. Any advice or cautions I should be aware of when changing the plugs or overhauling the brakes? Is there anything else I should inspect or replace when doing the maintenance?

 

Don't inhale the dust.

Spark plugs: Make sure they are wearing out normally. Should look just about the same as you put them in except usually have a slight tan color to them. But make sure they are not covered in oil, or broke, or covered in heavy carbon or soot and stuff. But at 45,000 it should just be an easy carefree exchange.

Brake/pad/rotors: Well since you are replacing them parts, I guess it wouldn't matter if the pads are worn or rotors scourged or stuff. Just make sure you don't get brake fluid on your skin. And I heard of people reusing the same brake fluid, but you said you are replacing that too. And make sure the calipers are in good condition.

At 45,000 you should not have too much problems.