1991 W124 engine trouble spots
 

Hello:

I have an '85 300D, but am seriously considering a '91 TE. I want that wagon bodystyle, and this one has good A/C, and my 300D does not. I hate to give up the diesel though, and I really do love my 300D.

Anyway - this wagon has 177k miles on it. Well maintained by an independent mechanic with a good reputation. Question - how durable are these gas engines? I figure I should get the compression tested to see how the rings/valves are sealing which should give me some info. What range am I looking for?

Are there any other specific trouble spots I need to check? I know the front end may need some work as the car ages, so I'll see how tight it feels. I also know about the self leveling suspension - this one works.

Thanks,

The M103 engine leaks oil around the head gasket but this is common of all older engines like this and should not be of concern unless you lose a lot of oil.

These motors, from what I am to understand are relatively bullet proof and should run for several hundred thousand miles.

I believe the M110 and M103 are supposed to pretty reliable, and some claim as good as the OM616/7. I bet you'll have more difficulty diagnosing issues with the Otto cycle, though, but if that bug's yours, I'm sure you already know that.