Hi all,

I am searching for a used Mercedes C class (year model ranging from 94 to 98). I like this brand of cars but I need some advice on what should I check prior to buy any Mercedes C.

Thanks

 

Try to find a car with documented service records, and with the lowest mileage, Bring along a strong magnet also, to check if there is any bondo on the car, Use a piece of cardboard between the magnet and the body, so as to not scratch the paint. if there is a lot of bondo, (the magnet will fall off) will tell you how badly hit the car was. Also run a CARFAX, some people feel they are worthless, but I have run them over the years for cars I was interested in and one paid off. The car had a salvage title.

Also walk around the car, check gaps at doors and fenders, take a look at the pedals to see if they are worn badly, if so stay away, the car was driven hard. Tires check to see if they are worn evenly. Finally take the car for a good long ride, with a friend to see how it runs and if it puffs smoke out the exhaust. Also, how noisy the engine is, you might hear a clicking noise that comes and goes, most likely its the fuel injectors, Mercedes seems to have noisy injectors. If the noise comes and goes I wouldn't worry about it, mine click sometimes and sometimes they don't click for days or weeks, on my 99 C280. Also, ask the seller if they will allow you to take the car to your mechanic for a check up. If they balk or say no, run away and find another car. See if the tranny fluid has a dipstick, mine doesn't. If it is brown and smells burnt, pass on the car. Last by not least buy from a dealer, if you can afford it, as you will at least get some sort of warranty and dealers tend to keep the better cars and send the others to auction. Hope this helps.

 

I cannot wait to sell my c230 because of all the problems I have encountered. If you are looking for headache, this is a very good one. trust me.

 

it isn't really that bad. parts can't last forever...so just replace the broken ones.

 

Where U at, I'll sell U mine cos I just lost my job & I can't make the payments.

 

Sorry to hear about your job. But in these times, no one is safe. I know a doctor, a good one at that, he worked the ER in a local hospital and he and two other doctors were let go. But he'll start a private practice and at least have human working hours