Mercedes B4 Service (What’s Included and Average Cost)
You love the thrill of driving your Mercedes-Benz, feeling the power of the engine and the smoothness of the ride. But when that “B4 Service” notification pops up on your dashboard, it’s easy to feel a bit uneasy. What does it mean? What kind of service does your car need? And how much is it going to cost?
From inspecting the brakes to replacing the air filter, we’ll break down the specific service items included, the price you can expect to pay, and how you can save some money.
See Also: Mercedes B5 Service
What Is a Mercedes B4 Service?
If you’re the proud owner of a Mercedes-Benz, you’ll want to make sure that it performs at its best for years to come. Luckily, the B4 service is part of Mercedes-Benz’s Flexible Service System (FSS), which divides maintenance into separate intervals based on miles, time, and usage.
Mercedes has a service schedule that includes A (minor) and B (major) services, alternating every 10,000 miles (or 12 months). However, the FSS determines the exact schedule for you, so you don’t have to keep track of it yourself.
Essentially, a B4 service is the 4th major service in your vehicle’s life, the next service in the maintenance schedule after an A4 service.
While all B-type services include the same standard service items, a B4 service adds a three additional service items that not all other scheduled services include.
When Should a B4 Service Be Done?
Typically, Mercedes vehicles undergo a B4 service around the 80,000 mile mark, which is usually the eight year of ownership, and approximately one year after having an A4 service completed.
If you can’t remember the exact time for your car’s maintenance, don’t worry. Your car will display a message such as “B4 Service Due”, “Service B4 in 30 Days”, “Service B4 Exceeded by 30 Days”, “Service Code: B4”, or “Service B” when it’s due.
What Does a B4 Service Include?
B4 service is an important part of a comprehensive maintenance package that includes a mix of standard B services and specific B4 services. Here are the major service tasks that are completed during a B4 service.
Replace Air Filter (B4 Specific)
When your car undergoes a B4 service, one of the key tasks performed is an air filter replacement. This is a critical step in maintaining optimal airflow and engine performance, which in turn can lead to better fuel consumption.
If the air filter is too dirty or clogged, it can cause a decrease in the engine’s efficiency and power. While one of the easiest jobs to do on a vehicle, it’s also one of the most important.
Replace Spark Plugs (B4 Specific)
The ignition of the fuel-air mixture in the engine is a process that spark plugs have a key role in.
During a B4 service, your spark plugs will be checked and replaced to prevent misfires, rough idling, and an overall loss of power, which can result in a not-so-comfortable ride and reduced fuel economy.
Clean and Degrease Sunroof Guide Rails (B4 Specific)
If you own a Mercedes with a sunroof, it’s important to clean and degrease the guide rails regularly to ensure that the sunroof operates smoothly and quietly over time. As the rails accumulate dirt, debris, and grease, the sunroof may become sluggish or noisy when opening and closing.
As part of a B4 service, any dirt or buildup that may be hindering the sunroof’s movement is removed and your sunroof will work just as it did when you first bought the car. This regular sunroof maintenance can also help prevent damage to the motor and other components, which can be expensive to repair or replace.
Replace Synthetic Motor Oil (Standard B-Service)
A B4 service involves replacing the engine oil (as is standard with any routine maintenance). Mercedes-Benz exclusively uses full synthetic oil, which breaks down more slowly than conventional oil, enabling oil change intervals of 10k miles.
Over time, motor oil loses its ability to properly lubricate moving parts, leading to heightened friction and possible damage. Fresh synthetic oil assists in keeping your engine operating under ideal lubrication conditions.
Replace Oil Filter (Standard B-Service)
The oil filter is swapped out along with the engine oil during a B4 maintenance visit. This filter traps impurities, stopping them from circulating in the lubrication system.
A new filter allows the clean oil to stay contaminant-free longer.
Replace Cabin Air Filter (Standard B-Service)
Your car’s cabin air filter filters out things like dust, pollen, and pollutants from the air entering the interior. Over time, it can get clogged up, leading to reduced air quality and HVAC performance inside the cabin.
The B4 service includes replacing this filter so you and your passengers continue breathing clean, filtered air.
Check Fluid Levels (Standard B-Service)
As part of a B4 visit, technicians will examine all fluid levels in your Mercedes and add more as required. Fluids checked include transmission, coolant, power steering, brake, and windshield washer.
Keeping each fluid at the proper level is essential for your vehicle’s optimal operation and longevity. You can trust the service team to correctly inspect and fill them.
Check Tire Pressure (Standard B-Service)
A B4 service covers a range of essential car maintenance tasks, including tire pressure checks. Keeping your tires, including the spare, inflated to the recommended pressure is crucial for maintaining fuel efficiency and extending their lifespan.
Failure to do so can lead to a host of problems, such as uneven tire wear and reduced handling capabilities.
Check Brake Components (Standard B-Service)
When you bring your car in for a B4 service, the technician performs a detailed inspection of key brake parts. They will check the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear, as well as inspect the complete braking system functionality.
This careful examination helps confirm your brakes continue operating safely and efficiently.
Mercedes B4 Service Checklist (At-a-Glance)
| Service | Standard B Service | B4-Specific Service |
|---|---|---|
| Air Filter Replacement | X | |
| Spark Plug Replacement | X | |
| Clean/Regrease Sunroof Guide Rails | X | |
| Synthetic Oil Change | X | |
| Oil Filter Replacement | X | |
| Cabin Air Filter Replacement | X | |
| Check Fluids | X | |
| Check Tire Pressure | X | |
| Check Brake Components | X | |
| Maintenance Service Counter Reset | X |
Mercedes B4 Service Cost
When considering the cost of a B4 service for your Mercedes, you have a few options to weigh. The most expensive but reliable route is taking it to an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership. Expect to pay between $800-1,600 depending on your model and location.
While pricy, dealership technicians are factory-trained and use genuine Mercedes parts. If by chance something goes wrong, the car manufacturer will usually be easier to work with as they don’t want to lose you as a customer in the future.
For a more budget-friendly alternative, look into independent mechanics that specialize in Mercedes-Benz or European vehicles. Vet them thoroughly and read reviews to ensure you get quality service.
It’s worth mentioning that using an independent shop may void aspects of your Mercedes warranty. So check the fine print!
See Also: Mercedes B3 Service Cost
Why Is a B4 Service So Expensive?
The high cost of Mercedes B4 service stems from the luxury brand’s commitment to quality and performance. Mercedes utilizes only genuine parts and fluids that, while pricey, are carefully engineered to optimize the vehicle’s operation.
The technicians performing B4 service tasks are Mercedes-certified and trained, commanding higher labor rates than general repair shops. Unlike the “A” type services, “B” type services are considered more comprehensive and a greater number of service items are checked and/or replaced. The sheer number of parts contributes to the elevated service cost.
Furthermore, Mercedes dealerships make significant investments in specialized diagnostic scanners and tools mandated by the manufacturer to properly service its complex, modern vehicles.
As a prestige luxury brand, Mercedes can demand a premium for both its vehicles and certified service. Customers expect an elevated ownership experience that extends to routine maintenance.
Related: What Does “AMG” Mean?
How Long Does a B4 Service Take?
The time required for a Mercedes B4 service can vary quite a bit depending on the shop, season, and any additional work needed. At most dealerships and independent shops, a basic B4 service typically takes 2 to 3 hours. However, busier times of year like spring and fall may extend the wait time if shops are backed up with appointments.
Larger dealers and shops with more technicians can often complete B4 services more efficiently. An understaffed or overbooked shop could also make the service take longer, even if no extra work is required.
While the B4 checklist itself shouldn’t take more than a three hours, real world delays at busy shops during peak seasons could easily extend the service to 4 hours or longer.
Can I Do a B4 Service Myself?
Although some very mechanically-inclined DIYers may theoretically be able to complete portions of a Mercedes B4 service themselves, it is not advisable for most owners without proper training.
The extensive maintenance requires specialized tools and technical knowledge to follow the intricate procedures per Mercedes specifications. Mistakes from inadequate equipment or expertise could lead to safety issues, mechanical problems, or voided warranties down the line.
Given the complexity involved, having certified Mercedes technicians perform the B4 service is the prudent option, despite the greater expense.
However, experienced home mechanics willing to accept the risks could potentially save money tackling the process themselves if equipped with the proper resources.
How to Reset a B4 Service Notification On a Mercedes
Don’t bother making a service appointment simply to reset the annoying B4 service reminder light in your Mercedes. You can easily handle this basic reset yourself right in your own garage. Here’s the process for resetting any A or B service notification in most Mercedes models:
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