New To Mercedes

[GlynC]

Hi All
Thought I would say hello
Just joined having bought my first Mercedes in Dec 2004
Took the plunge with a fully loaded E320 CDI in full AMG trim, after having spent two years with Lexus and the last one with Audi.
So far - very pleased, still keep turning round to admire it when I park it and nearly 40 to the gallon is welcome after a 430 Lexus doing about 20!!
One quick question on insurance - I had a great deal of problems with the "run of the mill" companies wanting to rate the car similar to an E55 AMG. Finally insured through Mercedes ( Norwich Union) who also agreed to cover all the extras. Many had limits on what they would pay for the in car entertainment gear and wouldn't fully cover the Command system and the TV /DVD stuff. Let alone the panoramic roof. I was always of the understanding if it came from the factory as fitted it would be covered - but this is definately not the case!
Am I alone on this one or is it something many people aren't aware of till it's too late.
Regards

 

[philharve]

Mercedes (Norwich Union) ?

Hi GlynC

Something you stated caught my eye, '... insured through Mercedes ( Norwich Union) ...'

My previous car, a Toyota Celica GTi, was insured through Norwich Union and when I asked for a quote for my Mercedes, the premium rose by £120 per annum.

I decided to try the insurance company available through the MBOA and the quote 'dropped' £45 per annum. That's a HUGE difference!

Could you please explain the Mercedes - Norwich Union link?

REGARDS Phil

 

[GlynC]

Insurance

Hi Phil
Sorry for the late reply - been away.
I insured the car through the Mercedes insurance people in Milton Keynes, this is underwritten by Norwich Union.
I did have some fun with them as they subsequestly claimed they didn't agree to cover the factory fitted extras I have which consists of the AMG kit & wheels Command/TV/DVD Panoramic roof etc. Luckily I had written down names times of telephone conversations so they held to the quote and covered the extras.
I may be hunting around next time as I guess they will hike the premium to something ridiculous. Many of the companies were rating the car as an AMG E55 when it is a special order 320CDI. Everything fitted at the factory and available in the brochure, never had to list factory fitted extras before!
Still the car is making up for that and is superb to drive and looks the business.
Cheers
Glyn