Questionthinking about buying 91 mb 300sdl anything i NEED to know
AnswerBob,
Depends on your reasons for purchasing a Mercedes. Unless you are mechanically inclined or have very deep pockets. These vehicles can be a money pit. Truthfully, I would never own another Mercedes, because I do not have deep pockets and although I am mechanically inclined but an analogue guy in a digital world, my time can be better spent.
The '86 420SEL we have, was in excellent condition and a purchase from a friend who took great care of the vehicle. We purchased the car for 9,000 8 years ago, I doubt that I can get 2,000 for it in today's market.
We have been able to maintain it at about what a domestic car would cost, only because I do my on work and have been able to purchase parts from aftermarket or off Ebay. I have use www.benzworld.org as a great resource. I would suggest that you register and check out the forums for your vehicle model to see what other guy may be having to deal with.
The complexity of the Mercedes systems defy logic, and unless you own a code reader or have a friend who does, it can be quite frustrating to determine where the problem lies.
A transmission service that is over 100.00 at the dealer is something I am not willing to do. The require a thermal temperature gun to read the pan oil temperature. That gun cost 100.00.
I must say that the issues are many time problems with the electrical system and they can be the most expensive and exasperating to trouble shoot and repair.
It took me two hours to remove the starter, because I had to drop the steering arms and use some very long extensions to get at the starter cap screws.
Sorry for being non-positive about Mercedes, but it is going to be 85 here in Georgia today, and I had to rent a car for a trip to Alabama, because the Mercedes is sitting in the yard with an AC blower issue I have been unable to resolve for two weeks now, among other things. Want to by a 420SEL for $2,500.00? ;-))
Hope this helps.
Rob
