Looking for a C-class diesel (W203)

[marnix]

Hi,
I am looking to purchase a C220 or C270 diesel estate (up to 3 years old) second hand.
Are there any pitfalls with these 2 models or any likely faults I should be checking for when viewing potential cars.
Any feedback is most welcome as I am looking to purchase before the end of this month or at the beginning of next.
Thanks

 

[jeremytaylor]

At this age, I would have thought a complete MB service history with paperwork to back up the mileage, and a close inspection for body repairs, are the most important. When I bought mine I looked at a few at car supermarkets (body damage, high mileage, incomplete history), MB dealers (clean but pricey), and ended up buying privately (complete spec, low miles and good price).

Known problems include:

1. Tracking gets knocked out of alignment by traffic harming speed humps. Can be fixed by a Laser-equipped specialist for circa £30 (e.g. Micheldever Tyres), but if its not done the tyres will wear unevenly.
2. My C270 Estate had a cracked front suspension bush changed under warranty.
3. I also had a Command unit changed under warranty. Couldn't see what was wrong with it but it was giving a fault code at the service so the garage swapped it. (NB Out of warranty it would have cost £2500!).
4. My Exhaust gas recirculation valve also failed. Symptom was excessive smoking under acceleration, and occasional smoke when idling in traffic when the engine was warm.

Check out honestjohn.co.uk for other info on the car in his car-by-car guide.

The 4-cylinder 220 is a little less refined than the 5-cylinder 270, and obviously has less power, but is slightly more economical. The estates are made in Germany, the saloons in South Africa - not that this should make much difference in theory. Hope you find a good one and enjoy it as much as I enjoy mine!

Maybe others know of other problems.