Looking to purchase and need the opinons of owners and/or mechanics familiar with the 2000 Mercedes S430 Sedan. I will have the vehicle checked out by a knowledgable Mercedes mechanic and runa title search.

I'm looking for the GOODS and BADS on this year/make/model from you all. Can a shadetree mech who does most of his own work on his stable take car of basics on this one (brakes, tuneup, belts.....).

I may opt out of the sellers service contract if Mercedes will sell me theirs (something to discuss when I go by the shop for the "check out".

What I've found so far in the other forums is inconclusive.. Parts (relative to my '80 450SEL) Brakes, fuel filter, sparks are more $. Alternator is a LOT more.

Special Price: NADA Retail Price: $54,696, Sale price $49,500
(Sale and NADA Prices include a 12 mo/12,000 mi. extended service contract - $2721.00 value)

Mileage: 43,166
Color: Obsidian Black Ext/Java (Tan) Int
VIN: WDBNG70J4YA061763

Equipment:
Air Conditioning, Aluminum/Alloy Wheels, AM/FM Cassette, Cruise Control, Heated Mirrors, Heated Seats, Keyless Entry, Leather Interior, Power Doors, Power Mirrors, Power Seats, Power Sun/Moonroof, Power Windows, Tilt Steering, Power Steering, Power Brakes

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S, J.R. Brown
2000 G500 LWB Obsedian Black
2005 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab Off Road Sport
1993 Volvo 240 Sedan Anthracite
1980 450SEL Champange (owned it for 15 years. Great car)
1986 280GE LWB Anthracite (Sold it and kinda wish I hadn't)