Knowledge of E320cdi wanted Pls!

[luke laconi]

Hi Gentlemen,

I have stumbled across your site whilst trying to find buying tips on the E320 cdi. It looks like you guys know what you’re talking about so I wonder if you could help me?

I have my heart set on an E320 CDI Avantgarde facelift model. I’m finding it near impossible to find one with low miles so it will probably have around 80k on the clock.

Please can you tell me what problems I can expect etc?

Your help will be much appreciated and may help me avoid some pitfalls?

I look forward to reading your advice.

Thanks,

Luke.

 

[television]

Welcome to the forum, and you will get some answers in the morning

 

[jberks]

what year and price are you looking at?
I assume a late 210 model.
The key here is rust. Thoroughly inspect it. Lots of posts (seach E class rust) but basically Wheel arches, around the headlights, under the door seals and around the boot lock, plus front cross member and spring perches. If there is any - MB may fix it FOC but it would need to be inspected.

Mechanically, the 320cdi is pretty sound overall and good for silly mileages. Check the front suspension. Ball joints are a known weak spot.
Internally, ensure everything inc the air con works correctly. Usual stuff, the glow plug light goes out properly and it drives ok. Any faults, judders, odd noises, jerky gearchanges etc and walk away. The dash will probably have problems with the clock and temp gauge (most do). Budget up to £250 for a repair though you may be able to do it DIY.

At that mileage the only item of note would be the gearbox maintenance. MB said at the time that the box was sealed for life. They've changed their minds over the last few years (as many have given up) and mine, with the same box, is now listed as needing an oil and filter change at 40k or 3 years. Older ones could have been missed. No problem at 80k it should still be fine, but budget to have it done asap (£200).
Basically 80k is nothing for these cars but as with most thing, having a known indie specialist give it the once over is always money well spent.

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

I think JBerks has just about covered what to look for.

Great car with plenty of power and economy to match.

Check extra service items have been done such as, pollen filter or (filters if auto climate), brake fluid, and condition of discs (expect no more than 40-45k).

Also put premium diesel in it, don't use the supermarket rubbish.

Good hunting and find the best spec you can.

 

[luke laconi]

Thanks a lot for replies - will be most helpful

luke

 

[hawk20]

Hi Gentlemen,

I have stumbled across your site whilst trying to find buying tips on the E320 cdi. It looks like you guys know what you’re talking about so I wonder if you could help me?

I have my heart set on an E320 CDI Avantgarde facelift model. I’m finding it near impossible to find one with low miles so it will probably have around 80k on the clock.

Please can you tell me what problems I can expect etc?

Your help will be much appreciated and may help me avoid some pitfalls?

I look forward to reading your advice.

Thanks,

Luke.

Are we right to assume you want the previous model, the 210 series, or do you mean the recently facelifted current model? No rust issue on recent E class, since cars produced from beginning 2003 onwards were fully galvanised.

Worth trying the Elegance too; IMO it has a much better ride for UK roads but the AvantGarde has many fans too. Matter of taste.

THe MB website has a useful search engine: -
http://www2.mercedes-benz.co.uk/con...e/products/used_cars/all_used_car_search.html

This site has links to many Merc dealers and independents too.
http://www.used-mercedescars.co.uk

Also useful
http://www.directmercedes.co.uk

Personally I would look for Full MBSH (there are plenty with it) and then you have the thirty year rust guarantee. The better ones tend to be with Merc dealers and you get a good guarantee from them.