I recently bought a 1988 420SEL for $1 (aka gift lol). Anyway the car is in excellent condition inside and out. Its got 278,000 miles and the only problems it has is with the antenna not retracting, and the X axis motor on the passenger side mirror is out. The engine was replaced somewhere around 130,000 miles and the car has only had 2 owners aside from me and has always been garage kept. The previous owner maintained the car well and took it to the shop whenever it needed anything. However I spoke to the previous owner and he does not remember if hes ever had the timing chain replaced which sent up a red flag for me. I've read here and there that these cars will practically run forever so long as the timing chain doesn't have a problem. I was curious about what it should cost to have it checked and or replaced? I don't know any exotic mechanics around here very well yet and I know the dealer is probably going to want a fortune to fool with it, so I'm wondering what the ballpark should be on a job like this?

 

It's not a belt that is made from rubber, it's a chain, if it's not making noise leave it alone, it will let you know long before anything happens that you need to change it.
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I am new to this site and also have a 1988 420 SEL. Had the timing chain replaced when I bought at 100K miles but now at 230K and seem to hear mixed reviews on whether to replace again. Wait for a "noise" (which may be too late), do it immediately, etc. Any suggestions?