nice to see my old, first thread revived after a year. I have enjoyed the 400e, though its not been problem free:

the wiper transmission went out and that is not a cheap part, then the bolts that hold the ps pump on sheared off and my mech had to drill out the bolts (400 labor, 5 parts); the muffler got a hole in it and had to be replaced (but i knew that was going to happen); it needed new caps and rotors a couple months ago and while i was at it i replaced the air filter and spark plugs (now it runs super smooth and is POWERFUL). the headlight switch broke, the headliner has fallen--too much open sunroof motoring--and i have some interior dash lights that stay on all the time even when the lights are off so the light control relay needs to be replaced. that is next on my list. then on to fixing my fading stereo amps and the fuel sending unit, and replacing the seatbelt relay and, finally, the vacuum actuators in the dash cause they are shot (no air out the center vents). and now there is a rattle in the passenger rear side when i go over bumps that suggests something is off in the suspension.

its not just a car, its a hobby.

on the other hand, everyone compliments the car and is amazed at how good shape it is in. and its fun that in a city of 3million that even when i buy tires the tire guys knows my mechanic. I have the top of the line goodyears on it and they are great so far.

plus I am learning to do more things myself so that is enjoyable.

my advice: buy a metric tool kit and make this site your home page. everyone has been super helpful.

and just replace the caps rotors and sparkplugs now.

but check on the tranny fluid...my mechanic has been hesitant to do it until its really necessary because he has seen too many trannys of this age start acting up or flat out dying when they get new fluid. he also says he has never seen a m119 timing chain break suddenly unless its been badly mistreated (ie, raced around). and he drives a m199 in an old s-class, along with a 300td w123 and a 320e. though they service any German car, all the guys in the shop drives mercedes.

its not just a hobby, its a lifestyle.

__________________
Christopher

400e >> 1992 >> 196k miles
Black Pearl Metallic/Grey Interior