How do I check a W210 for rust

[philiggy]

My W124 E300D is getting long in the tooth now so I'm looking for a E300 TD W210 and it seems I need to check for rust on the body, rot in the front spring mounts and crossmember and make sure everything works properly.

I can check to see if things work, and look for rust/filler on the body but can any one advise me on how to check the spring mounts and crossmembers.

Phil

 

[Ellsy Tanners]

If you dont have access to a ramp or pit, this will be though.

The spring mount cups are ok to do, just turn the car onto full lock and with a good light, look into the wheel arch and examine the top of the spring as the cup is welded onto the body. look for rust and signs of it coming away from the body.

The front subframe is usually covered by the front undertrays which will have to be removed to inspect. Again it is very obviously when its rusty, its will be reddy/brown instead of black.

 

[robs-mbz]

As above, but be sure to give the spring cups a really good look at. When I checked mine after I bought the car they looked ok until I started poking around and lifting off the sealing mastic. I was horrified by what I found, especially since the rest of the car is immaculate.
I ended up replacing mine myself, replacements are only about £18 each from Mercedes, labour costs would be pretty horrendous I would guess!