If you're worried about the cost of keeping an '03 E-Class in good shape after seven years of service, you'll have to wait three years for the jury to return a verdict! The best advice I can give anyone considering the purchase of an early 211 is to make sure there is still some factory warrant remaining on the vehicle. Don't get me wrong, though. They're great cars. They drive nice. They look nice. But eventually, they'll need some attention that will require a trip to an MB dealer That's just the way it is.