Buying a 1991 300E with 119,000 miles
 

I'm buying another W124, I don't really have experience in buying these cars with higher miles (119K on this one).

What should I look for when I drive/Inspect it?

Whats the first thing I should do if I buy it???


Thanks,
Eric

Boy there are lots of things to check. If its possible I would get it on a lift. Here are a couple of things I would look for or consider doing if I bought the car.

Check the front end suspensions components including the struts and strut mounts.
Check the motor mounts.
Check the timing cover for leaking.
Inspect the motor particularly in the back of the block for possible head gasket leak. Check for play in the driveline and inspect the flex discs for cracks. Inspect the transmission front and back for leaks, check differential for leaks. Check rear axle boots for cracks/tears. Check all the fluid levels for proper level and condition of fluids. Run the AC/hvac the whole time the car is running. Drive it for at least ten minutes at operating temp. Drive it on the freeway as fast or faster than you think you will actually drive it. Check all power windows, locks, sunroof, radio, mirror, signals, cruise. Makes sure the odometer is working. Check the title, check the carfax.

That is about half of it. :)

personally speaking I would say that if have experience with German cars and have already a 124 follow your heart here. I bought my first MB 2 years ago with 121K on it and have had little financial issue with it at all. It seems to be a typical German car to me, not much different, yet not completely similar, to BMW or Audi. It's kind of entertaining how the Germans make the 'Principle of Operation' ala Bosch the same, yet just different enough so that the parts are not interchangable from brand to brand. Hey, if the car runs well from a dead cold start and it handles well to your satisfaction and everything is equal...offer $1500 and hope for the best...good luck

I wouldn't consider 119k higher miles. I am a novice DIY'er, and even those with more experience than myself would suggest (in addition to the helpful advice above) you find a good independent mechanic to check out the car. Pay him for an hours labor to see what the car needs. Good luck!

You could also review the service record(s) of your previous W124's to anticipate what is coming up / needs service / already been done on the vehicle you are looking to buy.

I bought my 1990 300E with 133k on it, and its been great. (I did have to do some TLC to it....but otherwise it has been very reliable and a nice car)

What does TLC stand for?

Tender Loving Care. :D It needed idle-control-system work....and many other random parts. But its running good now! :D

It just needs new tie rods and shocks/struts.....and the list goes on. :D ;)

Eric, pay a MB-trained tech familiar with that vintage MB automobile to perform a PPI (pre-purchase inspection). That way you will know what expensive repair work may be pending. Very few owners are selling automobiles that are in perfect shape, otherwise they would keep the car. Keep in mind the adage "there is nothing more expensive than a cheap MB". If major repairs are pending they could quickly cost more than the purchase price unless you are a DIY'er.