Advice needed

Samwilde681

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Hi guys

As my newbie thread suggested, im looking for a E320 CDI and its likely to be a 2003-2005 model. The thing is there seems to be so many different cars and options, Ive even looked at the E280 CDI as it comes out slightly cheaper but I do like the idea of the bigger engine coming from a 3litre petrol V6. I also like the idea of the 7 speed auto as ive read really good things about it, im after refinement and smoothness with a little bit of power when needed for those less relaxed days.

I just need to know what to look out for really in terms of common faults, recall issues, Ive done a bit of research so far, but as I am always a forum member of any car I own I appreciate feedback more here than anywhere else!

Thanks guys, and cheers for a warm welcome.
 

television

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Welcome, any chance you could get one from 06-06, they have no SBC brakes and an updated car
 
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Samwilde681

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Welcome, any chance you could get one from 06-06, they have no SBC brakes and an updated car

I have thought about that but its more the cost element which is a problem, I could look at a 5 series but id rather a Merc tbh. I have seen one or two with higher mileage? Is the brake system a huge issue? ive heard mixed opinions!

Thanks for the reply
 

Mcobinad

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Hello and welcome to the forum. A little patience as people will soon be on this one to contribute in turn. :)
 

television

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I have thought about that but its more the cost element which is a problem, I could look at a 5 series but id rather a Merc tbh. I have seen one or two with higher mileage? Is the brake system a huge issue? ive heard mixed opinions!

Thanks for the reply

The SBC is expensive when it fails and up to £2k to fix
 

television

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Wow thats alot! a guy in the local garage seemed to think Mercedes would sort this free as they had admitted fault.... sounds like he may be misinformed!

Mercedes were doing this free, but as of this year they are charging for this
 

Mrtibbs

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Just out of interest, when did MB start with the SBC brakes please?

Keith
 
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Samwilde681

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And also, should I consider a clk instead, do these have the same issues? I like the clk280, found a nice 06 plate. Thanks again
 

television

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And also, should I consider a clk instead, do these have the same issues? I like the clk280, found a nice 06 plate. Thanks again

the 209 does not have SBC and very nice cars
 

Mrtibbs

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They had SBC brakes from the start, this ended 06-06
Hi and thanks for the reply, is this the start of W211 or does it include W210 also please?
Thanks again

Keith
 

television

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Hi and thanks for the reply, is this the start of W211 or does it include W210 also please?
Thanks again

Keith

The 210 was the outgoing model to the 211, the 210 ended in 2002 and the 211 came out, this went through a major face lift in 06-06 and was current until the 212 came out a couple of years ago or so.
 

DSB SL AMG

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I was certainly not put off owning a W211 due to SBC...there are many pros also with this model, poor that MB are now not replacing free, but still a great car! and just look at the replacement W212 when it was launched...immediate failure, diesel injector issues resulting in many stranded owners!
 
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Samwilde681

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Cheers guys, great advice! I'm still going to check them out, I'm looking into a clk 270 cdi also just to contrast
 

malcolm E53 AMG

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My twopenneth for what it's worth!!

I don't run a 211 but I don't think I'd be very happy running the pre-facelift SBC equipped car, the thought of the braking system pump timing out would really concern me as would the £1.5-2k outlay for a replacement. I'd much sooner put that money towards the facelift car and as these cars run to high mileages I wouldn't be put off a high miler post 06 car if you need to stretch the pennies.

I would say find a good 210 e class but not so many around now.

Hope this helps!
 
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Samwilde681

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Thanks guys, it does help, in all honesty now im really looking (still trying to sell my clio V6) its thrown up all sorts of questions and it all becomes a bit more fun/interesting. As I do lots of small trips I think petrol may be better? Im looking at CLK 240/320 and also the Eclass 280, ive found one post 2006 but its not a facelift so again I imagine SBC would be another concern. I do have to admit it does put me off a bit. I understand cars go wrong but the thought of buying a car knowing this will happen at some point would bother me. Thanks though guys, its all very helpful.
 

robparker

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On one hand, models with the SBC are usually more than £2k cheaper than the later ones without SBC, so from just that point of view you will either have a cheaper car, or one the same price. The facelift does of course bring other benefits, but I think the lack of SBC is the main reason people buy them.. In other words... dont spend £2-4k extra just to buy a car that might save you £2k on a failure (if it failed).
 

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