E320 Wagon 105K - What should I replace?

I just bought my first MB and I love it. What should I expect to need to replace/repair at the 105K mark not knowing if anything has been replaced except water pump at 58K? This is a 1994 E320 Wagon. I'm one of those people who would rather replace something a year early that a day late. If possible, can you give me an idea of the cost for any suggested preventative repairs.

Thanks in advance,

Jack Wiles
1994 E320 Wagon

[Lebenz]

If you don’t have a service record for the car, start by having a major service done. A good tech will give you information on what might need maintenance. Need a good tech? Check with this site, under Good MB Shops, or ask in this section.

BTW, if you need parts, this site has 2 excellent parts shops. OEM equipment and excellent prices.

Other considerations – many folks would say that shocks, and bushings are good to replace at about 100K miles, perhaps checking the A/C and cooling system, re-balance (or replace, if necessary) the tires. In short, do the things that will a) insure the condition of the vehicle, and b) the things that will bring the ride quality back to like new.

OTOH, if it isn’t broke…..

Welcome to MB ownership. Enjoy the ride!

Thanks guys. Those are great places to start. I have noticed a slight leak near the right front of the engine. The main drive belt looks a little worn as well. Would a major service pick up on most of that? About how much does a major service run? I know that I'm going to need to invest some money in maintenance up front. I just want to be sure that I do the most important things first. The car starts and runs perfectly as near as I can tell. I've driven it for about 1,000 miles and it doesn't appear to be using any oil.

I'm not a mechanic, so I will need to have most of the work done by a professional. I do check under the hood regularly for changes in fluid levels and I intend to do my own oil changes every 3000 miles(I've done that on every car that I've ever owned).

Thanks so much for your help on this 4th of July holiday. We're talking serious MB lovers here!!!

Jack Wiles

I also have the same wagon you have and I love it dearly. There is no shortage of posts about the '94 or '95 W124 cars. The three major things I looked for when buying mine was the head gasket, kick down relay (behind the battery) and the wiring harness. A transmission service is recommended at 105,000 miles and since MB doesn't want you to even check the fluid level, a transmission service might not be a bad idea. Should be only about $200. Things I've needed replaced include the water pump, steering dampener, and a front wheel bearing (~$800)

[A. Rosich]

My 1995 E320T is my third wagon, and still love them all.

I agree with all the previous posts about mechanical repairs. My E320T is about to reach only 30,000 miles, but have already change the radiator and the engine gasket (this last repair done under warranty). The fuses tend to give some trouble, I would just replace them all with fresh ones.

In terms of the chassis, all of my wagons have had a tendency for water leaks coming into the passenger cabin. My ex-1981 300TD had problems with the windshield gasket. By ex-1986 300TE and the E320T both had problems with the rear door gasket and also with a rear side window. Just be on the lookout for water filtration after a drive under hard rain.

Also, even though you might not use the folding rear seat often, remember to keep well lubricated all moving parts (including automatic door release latches)!

A. Rosich
S320, 1998
E320T, 1995