1999 S320 LWB - Issues with old rubber parts ??
 

I considering buying a rather nice 1999 S320 LWB. It has just less than 25,000 miles on it and is 18 years old. It was always garaged when not driven.

It has the original tires (Michelin), and probably original everything else. To make is safe for high speed, long road trips, it should have new tires, likely a new serpentine belt, and new radiator hoses.


What else would be important to renew on an original, 18yo car like this?


So far I'm thinking of Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires at Walmart for ~$500 installed. Does anyone have experience with those tires, or have a suggestion?


What other potential problem might I encounter with this car?

Change all the fluids, especially the brake fluid.

Gregory, recommend installing Michelin tires. Keep in mind the power of "M" ... Mercedes, Michelin and Mobil 1.

heater tee,wheel bearing might be flat up front,change antifreeze,michelins are made in china now,no use paying high dollars for commie crap

Consumer Reports shows Michelin and Pirelli are the top two brands, not far apart on their scoring

Best Tire Brands - Consumer Reports Testing and Reviews

Michlein comparable tires are rated 60,000 miles to the lower cost Pirellis 70,000.


New antifreeze would go with new radiator hoses. Thanks for the reminder.


@ oldsinner - Wheel bearings go flat? Can you explain further? Thanks!

Is the "heater tee" the item #10 in this drawing?

1999 Mercedes-Benz S320. #1405000472: Hose

Gregory, I have yet to get anywhere near those mileage claims on any tires over the past 50 years. A harder rubber compound will increase the advertised tread life, but grip on wet surfaces will suffer. Plus, harder tires produce a noisy ride in my experience. Compare the Treadwear, Traction and Temperature ratings when buying tires.

Be sure to use either genuine MB coolant or Zerex G-05 when you replace coolant.

And worthy of mention since we are on rubber and plastic. Don't forget Oil Pump and timing Chain Guide/Rails. These are wear related items but also deteriorate over time and are often forgotten about in low mile older vehicles.