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Old 11-29-2005, 10:23 AM
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BENZ-LGB BENZ-LGB is offline
Strong, silent type
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Southern California
Posts: 1,658
Quote:
Originally Posted by unabrasive20
I am contemplating the purchase of a 1998 E-320. Does anyone know if the '98 is plagued with the problems of the older E-320's? Ala, wire harness, head gaskets, AC evaporator. Also, if these are not issues for the '98, what unique problems does it have?
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Terry
I own a 1998 E320. Looking at its service history, it had a few bug when new, but since then it has been relatively trouble free. The harmonic balancer was replaced by the dealer gratis pursuant to a recall campaign. Some people have reported problems with the front shock perches (rust causes the perch or attachment point to separate from body).

I recently had one O2 sensor replaced (there are four) but I assume that this is a maintenance item that needs replacement like spark plugs or air filter. I also had the sunroof fixed when it jammed. It was an expensive repair and some W210 owners have reported problems in this area. I think Imade the problem worse when I tried to unjam it after it first got stuck.

Oh yes, the MAF seems to be an item that needs replacement. The part itself is not cheap, but it is an easy DIY job for which the delaer charges way too much money.

Over the years I've owned several Benzes. The 1998 E320 is not as "solid" or tank-like as my previous 420SEL or 300SD, but it is still a sweet ride nonetheless.

Someone once remarked to me that the 1998 E320 was the last of the trouble-free new Benzes. My car's history seems to confirm that.

Good luck.
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Current Benzes

1989 300TE "Alice"
1990 300CE "Sam Spade"
1991 300CE "Beowulf" RIP (06.1991 - 10.10.2007)
1998 E320 "Orson"
2002 C320 Wagon "Molly Fox"

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