w 220 question
 

hi...i have a question is a w220 model a troublesome vehicle just wondering thanks.

........it depends

Only if you are having troubles. Couldn't help it. Lol. Sorry.

Try google searching. Specified to this site.

Google away for opinions, but what I take away on the 220:
1. Avoid the V12
2. Pay attention to leaks on the airmatic suspension, or the expensive pump may fail
3. Go with an 05 or later

The early ones have front sub-frame issues where the lower control arms bolt-on. If the play is too large the WHOLE front aluminum sub frame must be replaced.

I want to say it is about $3k to $5k for the part, but the monumental task of the engine alignment, and etc....

A W140 is way cheaper to maintain in terms of dollars....

The PSE(door lock pumps) on the early ones are known to melt down...about $1k

That shock pump is about $1.5k to $2k.. Dealer Shocks are $1.5k to $1.8k a piece. Someone rebuilds the shocks for about $700 a piece...

I'm a fan of W140, and I have two of them. Even if you blow a transmission on a W140 it is chump-change to the suspension issues the W220's can sink a person...

All the best,

Martin

I never thought I'd live to see the day when someone would say a W140 is cheap to own. :D

I've always wanted to own a 1999 S500 Special Edition.

There are spring kits now, no reason to avoid the cars because of airmatic nowadays. Stay away from the v12s (money pits) and you're ok.