I'm about to fly to Chicago to buy a 2002 E320 4MATIC wagon Designo with 80K+ miles. Are there any commonly known mechanical or electrical issues that I should expect in the near future or is there anything in particular that I should look for before I purchase this E320? I have finally talked my wife into this car and I don’t want it to turn around and bite me in the butt! I would appreciate any advice and thanks for your time.

Pretty solid car, last year of the 210 chassis. Basically the same set of problems which apply to any other 210 chassis. Check the harmonic balancer. The service campaign doesn't apply to 2002 models, but check it anyways. There is a thread around here somewhere with the part numbers of the problem pieces. Check the a/c & climate control, make sure it operates as expected. Check the spring perches up front - though I'm sure a 2002 is far too new to have any issues. Check the boots on the front halfshafts. With 80K on the clock it might be time to service the transmission. Other than that it's basic used car stuff - evidence of paint and body work, condition of tires and brakes, service history, etc.

- JimY