buying 1992 400SE

[1994C220]

Hello everyone...I havent posted recently because I havent had problems with either of my two Mercedes!!!! I am posting to see if you have any thoughts on this big body Benz? I am getting it at a really good price, and it only has 81K original miles. Im trading in my C class, because I have really outgrown it. I have need for a bigger sedan now, and this car is perfect. Im picking it up in Houston this weekend, and bought it without even looking at it. It has a few things wrong with it:
1) Said the AC went out the other day for a few minutes....but came back on by itself. In other words, it started to blow room temp air. owner said he thinks it could be a fuse...Is this possible? Or are there know AC problems with this model?
2) Leather stitching on drivers seat coming undone(about one inch), this isnt a biggie, I know a guy that will restitch(sp) it for me for around 30 dollars.
3) 4 small tree sap stains on the hood. Any body have suggestions on these?
4) small scratches on front passenger bumper. Not noticeable until you are close...according to him. This isnt a big deal either, as I can get some touch up paint.
5) The glove compartment doesnt close. Said its either the latch, or the button thats broken. I had a Volvo that had the same problem, and I dont think it will be a large amount to fix.

Thats it...He said if there was anything else wrong with it, I wouldnt have to take it, and we could call the deal off. Im buying it for $10,500, and other than the AC problem, Im feeling good about the deal. Please share any ideas or suggestions....or warnings...which probably wont matter...I have been dreaming of getting this car for quite some time....and at this price, I cant pass it up...

[amg280]

The W140's have a known problem with the Airconditioning evaporator (inside the dash). It costs thousands to replace. Other than that, sounds like a good price. Might want to get the A/C checked by a MB pro.

[blackmercedes]

Originally posted by amg280
...Might want to get the A/C checked by a MB pro.

I second that! The AC repairs on the W140 can run you to the poorhouse quick. They are known for needing care and feeding, especially that evaporator.

[mbdoc]

That was the worst W140 chassis except for the 1992 & 93 300SD. VERY $$$$$$$$$.

[1994C220]

Ok, the AC problems a few of you mentioned are concerning me. What are the symptoms if the AC is going out? Heres what he said happened the other day.

He said someone went to test drive it on Thursday, and the AC was working fine when they left on the test drive. On the way back, the AC compressor must have shut off because the air turned to room temperature. Then, right before they got back to the dealership, the AC started working again.

Does this sound like the evaporator?


Thanks for your help. I think even if the evaporator is bad, and cost me a grand to fix, I will buy it...at the price Im getting it, I had alloted a couple of thousand to get it running the way it should be. And right now with the cold starting to sweep into Austin, I havent had need for the AC, so I may put it off until March to fix, unless it also effects the heater.


thanks,

carlos

[blackmercedes]

Originally posted by 1994C220
... I think even if the evaporator is bad, and cost me a grand to fix, I will buy it...

$1000 is the downpayment on an evaporator fix. Figure a minimum of $2500 for an indie to do it, much more at a dealer.

Also, the evaporator leaking is not a good thing. Without coolant, your AC system is in jeopardy of further complications. If the compressor engages for some reason, it won't have lubricant and will be toast.

If you're used to a C-Class, you're going to be shocked by an early production W140 S-Class. Figure AC repairs and electrical/hydraulic problems. Instrument clusters can be problematic and AC control panels often need attention. Door closers seem to be a common topic, especially among 1992-1994 cars.

Parts prices are a little higher than a C-Class, but not enough to make you notice too badly. The real difference comes in labour charges.

For a choice of a larger Mercedes that will be closer to operating costs to your C-Class, choose a W124 or W210 E-Class. I feel that a late W126 (1991) 560SEL or 420SEL is also a good buy as the purchase price is low and these cars are pretty bullet-proof, especially compared to the early W140 cars.

Among MB nuts, I think you'll find some consensus that the 92/93 W140's can be the most costly cars to operate on an on-going basis.

[1994C220]

Thanks for everyones input...I really like the body style of the the 92 and newer S class though...I guess I will just have to rely doing most of the stuff myself. This forum has already saved me thousands, with the help I have received in past problems with my ML320 and my baby body benz....I dont mind and even enjoy doing things myself, so I will tackle anything that isnt too difficult. I dont think I will ever get to the point where I will do some of the things you guys do(engine mounts, transmission rebuilds, etc), but I dont mind digging around and getting dirty looking for that odd vacuum hose, or relay switch.

By the way, Ive run into a snag, and I may not be getting that 400SE...it seems that the dealer has taken back their offer on mine..They were going to give me 7K for mine...and now they are saying 3500. Anyone want to buy a 94 C220 with 121K miles for 6500????

[1994C220]

Oh, if you are interested in buying my C220, or want to make an offer, dont email me...I wont have access this weekend, we are moving and I have all my computer equip packed up...you can call me directly at 512-442-1232 or 512-560-9542

Carlos

I hope I can get it this weekend. I am going today after work to show it to a dealer here to see what they will give me...

By the way, I owe 8K on it still, but will put the rest in to get it out of my name.

[amg280]

Carlos,

If I were you, I would put your C-class in the paper. You should have no problem getting $7,000 for it, perhaps more. And if your dead set on getting a W140 body, look for a 95 or newer model. They were facelifted, not so wide. Just my 2 cents.

-Andy

Dont ever trade your car in, you will never get anything close to what its truly worth.

[blackmercedes]

Originally posted by amg280
...Dont ever trade your car in, you will never get anything close to what its truly worth.

Sage advice.

[1994C220]

Well, its Monday morning, and Im still in my little C220. I drove all the way to Houston to find out that this 92 400SE was falling apart. It was raining on Sat, and on the test drive, water was leaking in on me from the driver side pillar. The radio didnt work, and the cars engine sounded terrible...it had a really bad idle. I guess thats why it was only 10K. I have decided to go with a newer model. an S320 or S420, and I think everyone is right, I think I will sell mine in the paper, or through one of the consignment dealers here in Austin. I have seen some 94 or 95 models that are in my price range.