My CDI was exceptionally well maintained by the PO when I bought it in 2015 with 146k miles. It now has 172k miles. Other than fluids and filters, all I've had to do is replace the SBC battery and one glow plug. While I'm sure some big ticket items with be in my future, I fully expect it to be one of the most reliable cars I've ever owned.

So sorry to hear about your daughter's battle...must be unimaginably difficult for your family.

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14 E250 Bluetec "Sinclair", Palladium Silver on Black, 153k miles
06 E320 CDI "Rutherford", Black on Tan, 171k mi, Stage 1 tune, tuned TCU
91 300D "Otis", Smoke Silver, 142k mi, wastegate conversion

19 Honda CR-V EX 61k mi
Fourteen other MB's owned and sold
1961 Very Tolerant Wife