Quote:
Originally Posted by tinypanzer
He wants $3k for it, 130K miles, new trans last year. I gave it a once over and noticed two things, one is a trans leak somewhere (can't tell if it's the pan or cooler line or what just yet)..... And, the front end makes loud creaking when you bounce it up or down. Could be those control arm bushings you mentioned, or bad shocks. My 300se was making noise that sounded like the control arm bushings and it turned out to be blown shocks. Other than that, it ran quite well.
But, if wiring harness problems are typical, I'd better stay clear of it. My sister has no mechanical ability whatsoever so I don't want to saddle her with headaches and a money pit.
Thanks!
J.
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I would imagine the creaking from the front end is probably the ball joints. I had similar symptoms that were fixed with ball joint replacement about 5 years ago. Suspension stuff just wears out over time, so you expect that on a car of that age. If the wiring harness has been replaced you don't have to worry about it any more. The replacement harness used a different type of insulation that doesn't degrade. Your best bet is to have a pre-purchase inspection by a reputable MB technician who knows the car. An hour or two of labour will buy you some peace of mind. As the saying goes, there is nothing more expensive than a cheap Mercedes.