Buying an M271

[ali242]

Hi everyone, new here!

I am just about to buy a 2013 e200 coupe (C207) which I beleive has the M271 engine which has the notorious timing chain issues. Bit of background, the car 9 years old and has only clocked 22k miles as the previous owner was an elderly couple who lived 6 months of the year in Spain. Compared to other higher mileage models of the same car, this seems to be a steal with its low mileage and the fact its only had 1 owner since new. It has a full service history, with the first 4 services being done at Mercedes and the last 3 being done at an indy at the following intervals: 3454, 6350, 9313, 13630, 16200, 20512, 22723.

My overall question is, given the low mileage, how worried should I be about the timing chain (and other possible issues) that this car may face. I beleive that the odd cars timing chain also fails at the 40k mark (although I am willing to take the risk). Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[ali242]

also just to add, I am unsure as to whether this is the M271 EVO engine. I beleive these engines are from 2012, therefore with this car being 2013 1.8 petrol, I assume it is the M271 EVO engine which has less timing chain issues. If anyone could confirm and any further advice would be really appreciated.

KR

 

[GP801]

We have 2 cars with the M271 engine. A 2005 R171 and a 2003 C209. So far neither have given any issues with the engine. Regular oil changes help which your prospective purchase has clearly had. Problems tend to occur from upwards of 80,000 miles and most do not have issues. On the web you tend to only hear about the problems. There is usually some warning in the form of a slight rattle before failure ensues. I would be more than happy to take a punt on this one.

 

[Tonygw]

I would have thought it would be ok with such low mileage.

If it was me I would buy it, and put some money aside for if the chain ever does give you trouble, oh and find your self a good local merc specialist to look after it. I would think with good regular servicing and maintenance it would be fine.