buying a 190D what to look for

[bazbenz]

Hi, always fancied a Merc and then, I saw a cheap one! E plate 190D 2.5 diesel, 160+ k miles, tickey engine (poss tappets), slight whine from diff, rubber bush on top of one front shock gone other cracked, noisey heater fan, elec sunroof doesnt open, MOT in April 05, rust on bottom of passenger door and rear wheel arch, some clag in sill, but has new rear discs, ball joint, etc.
Price is £400 is it a good buy? or should I walk away. What should I look for? Perfomance in terms of speed isnt a priority 'cos I drive a Landrover 110 usually!!!
Whats your opinion guys?? Hello to the world of Merc ownership or an expensive trip to the garage?
Look forward to your expert opinion. Cheers.

 

[flagstaff]

well ... they do say there's nothing so expensive as a cheap mercedes ... but in this case i'd be of the opinion that you've not much to lose by buying. it could be a great introduction to owning further examples of the marque that have been better cared for. i bought a clapped out 190D for 150 quid a couple of years back, and although i kept it only six months i decided on virtually the first time i drove it that mercs were for me.

and anyway: what's four hundred quid these days :twisted:

 

[catgate]

You really have nothing to lose. My 190D had over 250k on the clock when I decided to let it go. I replaced it with a C220D and, other than a bit better performance, the 190 was the better car. Have a look under the front apron and inspect the front bumper mountings. Any local garage worth its salt can play with these motors and that can not be said for the newer stuff.

 

[jimti]

My last car was a 190E 2.0 auto on a D plate, bit heavy on the petrol but otherwise very reliable car, problems aren't usually too expensive to sort out as long as you keep away from the MB dealers, and at £400 if its no good stick it into the auctions, you won't loose too much. or part ex it. I now own a diesel Merc,(w210) WOW what an engine, can't fault it, shame about the body work

 

[bazbenz]

Thanks for the advice chaps.
I've had another look at it this evening and took it for a drive round the farm where it lives. Can't take it on the road cos theres no tax. Had it up on the ramps to see underneath, no horrors there. Leaking steering pump and damp diff. Starts first time and the oil pressure goes straight up to 3. The tappets are very ticky are they hydraulic or bucket and shim? Is this a problem? Drives ok, gearbox seems fine. Just checkout the cost of insurance and go for it.
Cheers chaps.