Thinking of buying a second hand W124 300e Saloon

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I am thinking a buying a second hand 300E saloon, I've been offered one for around the £500 mark, just wanted to know are there any special things I should look for on that model - or is their a better version for go for around that budget.

Many thanks,

 

[paulcallender]

What year is it? Does it come with an MoT? £500 seems really cheap, for a Mercedes - are you familiar with the phrase "There's nothing as expensive as a cheap Mercedes"?

 

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12mths MOT - no tax - 1989 (F Plate) - needs new tyres but seems to drive well

 

[paulcallender]

For £500 its going to have some faults - for example, you've already noted that it needs new tyres. I'll try and point out faults which are expensive to fix, mind you, my W124 has been good to me so I am not a complete expert!

Look at the transmission fluid - dark/black, burnt smell, or low level could indicate future transmission problems.
Similarly, check all 4 gears engage and changes are smooth.
Check that there is no 'shunt' in the drivetrain - worn CV joints and suspension bushes aren't particularly expensive but their fitting is.
Make a good check of the underbody and any corrosion. W124s shouldn't be falling to bits yet (the previous models are only just getting to this stage), but for £500 I bet its got some surface corrosion, eg wheelarches.
Apart from that, there could be a number of things that could be described as wearing parts, which are worn out. For example, wipers, exhaust, battery, starter motor, etc etc.

I'm sure other forum members can add a number of other key things to check on a W124.

 

[grober]

Luck Of The Draw

Cylinder head gasket. water in oil white scum inside oil cap. oil in water black oily deposits in header tank-should be clear blue or yellow depending on anti freeze. Transmission fluid as previous post. exhaust plus cat if fitted for MOT. water pump leaks, front springs broken? are more common problems. YOU WILL BE VERY LUCKY TO GET A RELIABLE MERC FOR £500

 

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Many thanks for the advice chaps - wanting to see the seller again, as he has gone on holiday - however read another post on the forum offering a C Plate 300E, with plenty of history - looks very promising.