Compare Mercedes electrical fault repair quotes from specialist garages

In 1886, Karl Benz - the founder of Mercedes Benz - introduced what is often considered the first petrol-powered car to the world. The Benz Patent Motor Car was born, and with it began a legacy that continues today.

Style, luxury and innovation are the driving forces behind Mercedes. Not only was it one of the first car manufacturers to put brakes and suspension on all four wheels, but it was also the first to introduce safety crumple zones.

Cars by Mercedes have appeared on the big screen numerous times, from the S-Class used by Jason Statham in The Transporter to escape a gunfight to the 1969 280 SE Convertible driven by Hugh Grant in Bridget Jones's Diary.

See how Mercedes' maintenance costs compare with BMW's and Audi's here.

A car's electrical system has many components, including the starter motor, battery, alternator, indicators, lights, radio, power steering and heater. The battery stores electricity generated by the alternator and sends it to the vehicle's ancillary circuits.

Car electrical problems can vary greatly, from loose wires and faulty fuse boxes to starter problems, so it is difficult to know what is wrong without the help of a knowledgeable car electrician.

If your car doesn't crank properly, its headlights aren't working as they should, fuses keep blowing, or your battery dies, these are all signs your car's electrical system is failing.

Find out what to do when your car battery dies in this guide.

Some issues, such as a loose spark plug repair, are easy and cheap to fix, whereas an alternator replacement may be more costly. The good news is that mobile auto electricians will come to you if you can't get your car to a garage.