My grandmother is giving up her 2003 E320 with 6000 miles on it. Is there anything that should make me steer clear of this particular model of Mercedes. I have never owned one and haven't kept up with issues they may have. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

That was a big recall year for the w211 model.Get it inspected,check the service records,and learn to do your own service intervals.Or have deep pockets,the dealer charges the same to work on an old one as a new one and the fees will knock your socks off,if you can't diy.
ohlord

 

As Ohlord mentioned it is the first year for the 211 chassis. This car had a number of stupid issues with the electrics. The ride control harness was soooo tight that it severed the wire to the pump ( located under the driver's front inner wheel well) and the dealer wanted $7000 to replace all the shock absorbers and pump! 1 hour and $70 labor and all was well. The car is out of warrenty regardless and will cost about $1500 year to maintain by a good mechanic. These cars have issues with front end components(tie rods and ball joints) brake fluid absorbing moisture and giving computer headaches but overall are a great ride for the money. Regards, Bob

 

Thanks guys!

I pulled a carfax on the car and it looks like everytime the car was serviced they changed/flushed the brake fluid. I wondered why, now I know. It looks like the computer has been reprogramed and the alternator/generator replaced. The electrical system has been serviced?.

I also see multiple checks of the sunroof. Is there a general issue with the sunroof in this model?

Also Iwas misinformed about the mileage. The car has 9300 miles clocked.

 

9300 miles !!!!!inspect it by a pro shop check it all out and get it.How muck is being asked?
ohlord

 

the brake fluid should be changed on maint schedule which is about 2 years. Given 9000 miles it would probably have 2 brake fluid changes. sounds like a solid car.

Issues.

1) Put michelins on it the existing tires are getting too old and might fail
2) brake pads need replacing about every 30,000 miles but can be extended
3) ball joints might fail at 70,000 miles
4)SBC brake system warranty for 10 years might fail
5) power door locks at 70,000 miles

But this car sounds like about 5 years of fun driving before you have any serious issues.

Buy grandma's car drive it.

 

Picking up the car over Labor Day weekend. Final price $18K. Thanks for all your input.

 

Even at 9000 miles that is about 2 grand to much,granny is getting a bonus,and you will pay dearly for the above named issues that drive the market down on the w211 model.I wish you well,that 2 grand could fix a lot of electrical gremlins and brake issues.Live and learn.
ohlord

 

wow, those are very low miles.
if she gives you a good price, i say take it!

 

buying a mercedes from your grandmother? now, that is unusual...typically they give the mercedes