I would not necessarily agree. A highly reputable MB tech known well to this forum shared with me that if you keep your oil changes at regular intervals (between 5.5 and 6.5k), there is no reason why the supercharger wouldn't provide 150k+ miles of trouble-free operation. I posted awhile back on a rebuilt kompressor unit, and there are alternatives out there starting at around $400 - not so pricey IMO.

I have a 2000 C230K, and absolutely love it. Very reliable, no problems, and runs like a charm. I myself looked at the C280, but decided to go with the C230 because it seemed, in my opinion, that there were lots of head gasket issues. It sounds like you'll have to do this job at least once, and it's not cheap by any means unless you can DIY.

Also - keep in mind that Mercedes continues to manufacture the kompressor engine. I personally think we'll see more of these in the future.

Do a search on this question - there are many such topics with some really good responses.

My 2 cents,
Michael

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+AMDG+
2005 W203
Running as fast as I can to stay behind!!