Hello All,

I've been off/on this board a few times. I presently drive a T4Runner whose gas mileage w/ the rising fuel costs is bothering me quite a bit. I'm thinking of getting a diesel and the MB E320 CDI has got my attention.

However I don't know much about MB's. I have owned several BMW's 528e,325i,528i and they are quite easy to work on given the limitations of a weekend mechanic. I've done routine maintenance(oil changes/brake pads/rotors/spark plugs, tranny flush) and repairs like cooling system(water pump/thermostat/belts) front end tie rod/bushing, suspension components,abs sensors. I don't consider myself a master technician but I can get the job done given my limitations and if I have the right tools and a workshop manual and know where to go to get replacement parts or if all fails go to trusted shop.

So what problems or issues should I be concerned about with the MBE20 CDI? My main concern is how strong is the engine/tranny/suspension components. The electricals yes there will be gremlins but how bad? Would this affect driveability? Are there things I can bypass? Could anyone please post what repairs cost and how much it costs to maintain per yr? Edmunds does post numbers but these are based on statistics that aren't always realistic.

I've read a few posts on this board and here's what I have seen so far:
1. Speed sensor that screws up driveability
2. Valve ticking noise if correct fuel weight is not used
3. O2 sensors
4. Fuel pump (I consider this routine maintenance every 80kmi)
5. Fuel filter (I consider this routine maintenance every 80kmi)
6. Glow plugs
7.....please add any other

Thank you all in advance. I've always liked the E series and hope to own one in the near future.

Regards,
-PGK

 

honestly...the newer diesels from like 2005 and newer are never in the shop......I just serviced a 2005 or 2006 CDI e class it had 232,000 miles on it, and the owner just loves it. more reliable than the gas engines it seems and they have power too you wouldnt even know your driving a diesel. I know there aren't many diesels on the road but they are rarely in the shop for problems. they always have high milage and are in for basic services. my opinion is its a great car. and im not a diesel person!

 

Thanks for the posts. I was'nt aware that the 2007 onwards were V6's....

 

From what I've read the v6 diesel is a great engine. I think that was the engine that broke the world record 100k mile endurance test that went on a few years ago in Texas.

Just courious why would you want to avoid the v6 diesel?

 

This is an interesting discussion as I am looking to rid myself of my 99E300td and have my eye on a 2007 E320CDI. I think that what you mean, and please correct me if I'm wrong, this car is an inline 6 and the bluetec is a V6? If that is the case the CDI is a better bet than the bluetec?