Hello there,

Today I will go to look at a 1987 Mercedes Benz 300SDL (3L V6 Turbo Diesel). The asking price is $3200 and it appears to be in good condition. Milage is at 250K and it appears all is working properly.

If I get it, this will be my very first Merc

The question is, what should I be looking at when checking this car? Are there specific areas that can be too problematic about this car one should be aware off?

For example, rust should be an easy one to tackle unless there is a hidden place one should look at to get a good idea of overall condition. Or, (as I know very little about diesels), maybe the equivalent of timing belt/chain on a gas engine having (or not) been replaced after X milage is important (?).

Basically, anything you know you would be looking at if you were buying yourself would be much appreciated advise!

Thanks you in advance.

 

As long as it has never been over heated the worst thing is electronic gremlins.

Those engines will run forever without being opened mine had 296 when i sold it last december for 2300 but it has some electronic gremlins and other minor issues i personally think now i could get 2500-2700 for it.

Its the 87 mine was an 86 and in 87 there was a trap-oxidizer recall that is still being honored get the VIN and find out if it was ever done b4 u buy the car.

For more info look under Diesel Disscusions!!!

 

Thank you for that reply! I hope to see others soon, as I will be going to look at the car in three hours :P