Hi, I have a gorgeous 1997 E320 and have had no problems with her at all. But, at 176k miles and a few cosmetic issues I am looking at getting a newer model. I've been reading the forums and people don't seem to like the 2004 model year, but the 2005/2006 seemed to have redeemed themselves. What's the consensus?

I've read what to look for, and I'm carfaxing the VIN of everything I look at. My current e320 is just so reliable that I couldn't imagine being at the dealer all the time with a newer model! Thanks for the input.

Charlie
Austin, TX

 

Yes those W210 are realy good I have an 2002 E320 and it has just been great. If you are going to buy the 05-06 then I would suggest getting a warrenty or if its a private sale have shop inspect it before buying.

 

Then stay away from anything that begins with w211.
Pick up a nice 01 e320 w210 I just located one for a guy for $9500 in mint condition.
ohlord

 

ChasAus,
As Ohlord indicated there have been several issues with the '02-'04 E-320'S. I have had problems with the door locks in the '02 as well as the LED read outs in the HVAC failing(the factory knew about this) and front end issues in both the '02 and '04. ALL the E-320'S have had catalytic converter failures(the core mounts begin to rattle) by 80K. The '04 had an electical problem with the rear main fuse panel because of a bad connector. Overall they are still a great car and if you buy it right it is still a good value. Regards, Bob

 

I have an E320 and it was at the dealer 5 times for surging problems at parking lot speeds, they have taken apart the transmission a couple of times but the problem still exists. There is also a mysterious leak in the rear driver side tire, no one can seem to find out what is wrong with it. But in the past 3 months I have had a flat to the rim 5 times! The AAA guy knows me now by first name! Other than those issues I love the car. I have complained so much to Mercedes that they offered to buy it back!!

 

We had a corporate policy, never buy a fleet vehicle during its first and last year of production. The 210 E was a good vehicle, the 211 degraded a little. These days a MB extended warranty is important, you never know what you can get.

 

Stay away from w211s. I donĀ“t know if 2006 model is ok now. but 03-04 are a nightmare. I have replaced: front door locks, sbc pump, 4 expensive airmatic shocks,a really expensive audio gateway, 2 or 3 different fluid lines, etc, etc. If you want to own a recent model MB .... extended warranty is a must.