MB claimed that first gen airbags have a life of 10 years then extended it to 15 years. That being the case, I would not count on an original 82-85, 87 300D, 81-85 300SD or 86-87 300SDL airbag to save my life if push came to shove. I'd like to see statistics on how many 15-year old MB airbags deploy when they should.

I believe replacement airbags are in the neighborhood of $2000. I don't know if the sensors and switchgear also have limited lives.

Sixto
95 S420
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD