. . . and it's only been 6 months. But my C230 (W202, 1997) seems like it will be good for the long haul. Two oil changes and gas costs aside, I've had to replace a leaking differential seal and (ouch) the A/C compressor -- the original compressor, after 7 years and 58,000 miles of New Orleans heat and humidity.

Aside from that, the brake pads and rotors plus fluid, which I had done when I got it, are a normal maintenance item, like the cabin, fuel, and air filters. Coolant flush and tire rotation coming up this month, and I think the little gold beast will be good for a long time yet.

I think the perceived "problems" with MB nowadays stem mostly from the glitches with the poorly-integrated electronics. The bodies, engines, and (with certain exceptions) transmissions are looking pretty good.

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-- Paul W. (The Benzadmiral)
('03 Buick Park Avenue, charcoal/cream)
Formerly:
'97 C230, smoke silver/parchment; '86 420SEL, anthracite/light grey; '84 280CE (W123), dark blue/palomino