E320 Petrol, W211 2004 ??

[Beamsey]

Hi, I've just joined up and realise that this may be a ridiculously general question, but should I buy the above vehicle ?. Let me tell you more. its 2004 sub 35,000 miles, full MB service x 7 (estate and automatic). I had almost made my mind up to go for it, but then started researching the glorious web, and found a ground swell of opinion against the pre face lift W211 model (circa 2006).

Has anyone owned a pre facelift model that has been a good reliable vehicle or is that like finding teeth on a chicken ?? ie extremely rare, if ever.

Would appreciate a few thoughts from past owners or people who know. cheers

 

[AMGeed]

Mine is a 2004 W211 and I have been fortunate so far.
You will have read of the possible costs of the airmatic struts or the SBC pump failing to realise that this model does have the potential for some expensive repairs/maintainance.

However, don't be put off. They are a very capable and popular car .If you can put by £1 - 2k in case of any future problems. If you can , check all the electrical accessories are working. Folding mirrors, heated seats and most importantly, no warning lights displayed. If the car does have airmatic suspension, raise and lower the car on the button to check all is working properly.
Hopefully you have a good example and if you think its worth going for, I'd do it. As I said, a fine car.

Oh, welcome to the forum.

 

[merc85]

I have a s211 e320 cdi 2003 estate 7 seater, and it has been a absolute dream to own and im going to struggle to find a replacement which is equally good when the time comes.

Apart from normal servicing, and pre caution replacement of the radiator it generally has put a foot wrong. See my thread if you like.

http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/mbclub-projects/173951-detailed-oil-burner-e320-cdi.html

I am a little ott keeping my cars in good health the SBC saved my bacon once and love the car for this feature some may disagree of course but it wouldn't put me off buying another.

 

[MercedesDriver]

Hi, I've just joined up and realise that this may be a ridiculously general question, but should I buy the above vehicle ?. Let me tell you more. its 2004 sub 35,000 miles, full MB service x 7 (estate and automatic). I had almost made my mind up to go for it, but then started researching the glorious web, and found a ground swell of opinion against the pre face lift W211 model (circa 2006).

Has anyone owned a pre facelift model that has been a good reliable vehicle or is that like finding teeth on a chicken ?? ie extremely rare, if ever.

Would appreciate a few thoughts from past owners or people who know. cheers

Hi and welcome to the forum.
I've bought similar car last year with full MB history and so far it's been faultless. I suggest you to go through entire service history and check how often it was serviced by MB. Go to the nearest MB and ask them if previous owner has responded to all recalls. Ask if SBC, gearbox and self-levelling were serviced regularly. If MB give you positive response go for it. At least I would.

 

[Beamsey]

Thanks for your responses guys, I am pleased that all responses were positive !! feel a bit more confident.regards

 

[MD5]

Make sure you have a good look under the rear of the car, as they can be a bit prone to rust. Check the brake pipes/hoses and exhaust mounts etc. I've had an 04 E500 estate for over three and a half years now, and love it.

 

[Timster]

Another vote for one here.

2003 S211 E320cdi. 220,000 miles. I'm the 2nd owner. Full documented service history. Never let me down - best car ever built (IMO)

And - another vote for the SBC - yeah, you might need to replace it at some point but its an amazing system.

But ......... tehre are plenty out there - don't buy the first one you see unless you're sure. Plenty of lemons, but some belters too!! Personally it's all in the history for me!