Greetings, I have a 97 c280 w/100M miles that has a head gasket oil leak. Estimates are app. $1500 to repair and I hate to spend that when no other problems are involved. I heard there is a defect in that years seal and it is not uncommon. My question is...would using a product such as Bar's Leak have any effect or benefit on this problem. I called there tech department and they said it should have no negative effects. Any thoughts, comments....thanks!

The oil is leaking from a pressure point. I would recommend getting the head gasket replaced.

The oil is leaking from a pressure point. I would recommend getting the head gasket replaced.

I also heard there is another point at the front of the engine near the head gasket that has a small seal that may go bad...any ideas. It is leaking from the left front close to the water pump. I am looking for an engine diagram to locate it.

Thanks..

You are probably looking at the front cylinder head cover. There is a "U" shaped seal the goes between the front cylinder head cover and the timing cover. Very common........turns hard as a rock.
I'd stay away from any oil additives and just get it repaired properly. Like you said there are no other problems..........