I am going to be checking out a 1998 E430 tomorrow. It sounds like a nice ride, Sport, fully loaded, CD changer, sunroof and only 60000 miles according to the add. Priced at $13900, it looks like a good deal. The guy says it is in brand new condition. It was rear-ended, but repaired at the dealer. Are there any "gotchas" with this model. Anything to look for specifically? If it passes my initial inspection, I'll want to take it to a dealer to get checked out. Any ideas on what this type of inspection would cost?

Thanks.

 

on avg, about $200 plus or minus of course....depending on how intensive the inspection. most of the time, they're checking simple diagnostics off the readout, misc inspection of brake pads, etc. it will rarely cover 100% of anything so dont be surprise if something minor (though no less annoying) comes up after inspection and you own the car. they'll check power train, compression, suspension blah blah...but may miss something weird like water seepage in windshield or sunroof rattle etc. you get the idea. it's all in the hands of the shop performing the inspection and how much time (and how much you pay) for them to dig into the car like a pit bull. you can try getting them to guarantee each of the points they sign off if possible. good luck!

 

Thanks for the information. The car did not pass my initial inspection. I guess brand new condition can be a relative term. It was a beatiful car, but on the passenger side rear there was some poorly done body work. Hard to understand why someone would have taken such a nice car to a place that would do such shoddy work. Oh well, it is fun shopping for these cars.

 

no regrets then. these are not hard to find in good condition. low mileage a bit more challenging but I do see them periodically. in hindsight, i should have gotten a 430 instead of 320 but i didn't know any better....plus, i was trying to stay up with my brother who just bought a 2000 E320 and did an impulse buy. now, i wish i just saved up $ and gotten a used but cared-for E55. all's well, however, as my 99 E320 has been an amazing performer and has shown zero signs of problems the 2+ yrs of ownership.