Looking at 05 E320.
 

Looking at a 2005 E320 sedan with 98K, 322 Appearance Pkg, 426 Premium Pkg, for my wife. The asking price is $12.9K. We absolutely love the color (353 Platinum Blue) Any opinions on overall reliability?

Most people say Mercedes quality from the late '90's to early '00's was at a low point. If you can afford it, spend another $4K-$5K for a 2007 facelift model which is much improved over the earlier ones.

03-06 E's were known for having many recalls and issues. 07-09 are the more golden years for the 211. If you choose this 05 get a PPI and have a indi shop on hand. If your a DIY person there are links on the DIY Section on mbworld and benzworld.

I've had a 2005 E320CDI for a year now with no real problems. Car had 108K when I bought it from a dealer; has 119K now. The quality of the interior materials and paint and appearance items is impressive, although I believe my car was mostly garaged, which helps. I really like the ride, drive, quiet, and economy.
I have heard the occasional pop-creak from the right front suspension, nothing alarming. I read that this is often reported on this series car. My car was completely dealer serviced and I am glad I bought it. I am also glad I did not give $54000 for it.:eek::)

Drove the car today, very nice, and he will come down to 11K. Thinking hard on this one...

That is a good $$$ price.

The only issue would be the SBC braking system & it is still under the 10 year warranty.

So I am buying this today from second owner, with 99.3K miles for $11K. He owned from 20K miles to the current 99K miles with zero problems on the car, just the regular maint. I hope this is a good sign.

Had car on the lift today at a friends MB shop, all clean and dry. Everything looks good.

Very impressive car. My wife loves it, which is good as it will be her car, and I can get my Land Rover back!