I have run into the confusion of it being the little coupe a couple of times already and I haven't even brought it home yet.
Its in the service center right now getting new tires and a detail.
That gives vehicle repair and maintaince cost. Mercedes makes great vehicles ( I have never owned one) but I hear horror stories about costs of repair and Maintainance.
"Take it up with my butt, cuz he's the only one that gives a crap"
Carter Pewterschmidt
Bought the C230 Kompressor Sport.
Also had them repair or replace:
All tires
Brakes
console
And the kicker - 5 year maintenance package plus theft protection.
I'm late (as usual) but it sounds like you bought a good one.My bro-in-law didn't report anything unusual that would put it on the "avoid" list.
CONGRATS! (I had to look it up, wow, those are some good-lookin' cars!)
Thanks can't wait to bring it home.
I had the choice of driving it home today but then bringing it back Friday a.m. to have the console lid replaced. I decided to just let them have till then, so when I pick it up it is good to go.
The maintenance package was key to me. I don't and wouldn't mind changing the oil but knowing those and the MB required maintenances are included now, sent me home a little happier.
I spoke to my 2 buddies last night who are Merc techs. The cliffs notes of that conversation are as follows:
Avoid it with your life.
Oh man, what a piece of !@#$.
Hope I never have to work on another one.
Poor man's wheelbarrow. (this one had me on the floor)
I would just get a Corolla.
You mean there is still one running somewhere?
It went on and on, but I think their general consensus was, they suck. But, since it sounds like you jumped on it, good luck I guess.
I have my eye on the C250 Sport. Nothing to call home to mom about, but there is just something charming, sporty, and affordable about them.
Gary Noonan
'01 S/C VX / '18 Forester XT
If I already bought it, was the negativity needed?
I spoke with local non-dealership Benz mechs, they said 2006-2009 can be terrible due to the Daimler Chrysler joint. And it is these that are being bought at a more rapid rate due to their more recent affordability. Thus the reasoning behind the "horror" repair stories.
And that info played into the fact that the 2007 4matic (which I heard is crap) was cheaper than the 2005.
He said for the most part 2005 and older are built from a solid piece of granite. And the only major thing I may have to look forward to, is a supercharger rebuild, otherwise it should hit 300K.
I had a 190E in high school that had 238,000 on the clock.
Without a doubt better left unsaid.
Much like commenting on your STI purchase and saying how much your model sucks after the fact of the purchase, and then wishing you luck. Decent pissing on parade technique.
Nothing gained.
Oh well, hopefully my detailed opinions were more factual.
Perhaps. I can't speak for your state, but in Virginia there's a 3-day buyer remorse law that allows you to return the car and get 100% of your money back, as long as the car is in the same condition as you bought it (there are stipulations for mileage I believe). I imagine WG doesn't know the laws of your state either, so probably better to contribute and have you ignore it than to not say anything and (potentially) cost you the opportunity to change your mind.
Re-reading this thread from the beginning it really sounds more like you were looking for affirmation of the decision you had already more or less made. Just my $.02.
More or less looking for particulars if possible, not garbage opinions that did not point to a particular problem or model. It would have been much different, if it was, stay away from this engine, look out for this year etc. That is typically the info you acquire when asking such questions, including overall reliability - which I assume those would fall under.
Like I have been told, the Daimler Chrysler Benz are the ones to stay away from, from my VIN, I have succeeded.
I assume I should have updated this thread and stated, info was acquired elsewhere but valuable opinions are still welcomed here. Obviously, opinions with like I said no particulars wouldn't/shouldn't change a decision.
Congrats! You will not regret it! As I said, we haven't had a problem with our C280. Mercs are made to last and are very safe.
In reference to the "2 Merc buddies"...The fact that they said "I would just get a Corolla" desqualify them from life.
Enjoy your new Merc! And please send pics!!
Last edited by VXD959 : 02/24/2012 at 09:22 PM
Daniel
When I ask for opinions, I am fully prepared for the critique. I guess that just means I am ready, willing, and mature enough to accept the onslaught of various "opinions" that I asked for. Rethink your title next time. I had not read through the plethora of posts following to the point to where you had actually already bought it. This information was not known to me by my post time. In the future, I will read on before commenting when asked for opinions before posting, though, probably best left alone if it is you asking for what you only want to hear.
Sorry if you feel offended, it was not the intention, but at the same time, I do not apologize for jumping on the bandwagon of yay-sayers. Do enjoy your new car. I certainly hope it provides you with all that you are looking for.
For the record, I am always told my car(s) are garbage. Funny thing is, I smile and I don't cry about it....