CAR: 1991 mercedes 300 sel

When I always worked in the shops, If one caliper leaked, I always told the customer to have balanced brakes on the front, have both calipers replaced.

Some customer told me he is trying to keep the cost down and wanted to replace one caliper if it is leaking. I am not a person who like to compromise safety or take short cuts on something like brakes and wanted to get some opinions from you Mercedes mechanics how you feel about this.

Thanks !

 

I'm not a certiffied Mercedes mechanic and I know some parts need to be replaced as a pair for correct operation but in this case, I would inspect the original caliper and feel safe to drive with one new and one used caliper. It may still last longer then that new unit. On my 1980 ( same 126 body) all 4 original calipers are still on it after 30 years of safe performance.
We will see what others opinions about it will be. Mercedes mechanics are replacing even wheel bearings in pairs on rear suspention of MLs even do they know that right (passanger) side go out way sooner then left side. Just a good business, I guess.
Bernard

 

Just make you sure you write in the estimate
that you "recommended replacement of both"

Make a note: "by customer's request..."
that it they only wanted one replacement installed
and that they understand the safety concerns.
Then have them sign a copy for your records