What is this I keep hearing about the 3.5 liter turbodiesel six cylinder being troublesome? I believe "self-destructing" was a phrase I heard somewhere.

Can anyone explain what the problem is, and how many cars it affects. Also, which cars have the troubled engine?

What are the differences between this engine and the 3.0 liter six cylinder?

I ask because I have been trying to locate a newer car (bigger with better equipment) for my mom, something to replace the trusty '89 190D. This car has about 240k miles and is beginning to need more and more repairs. And it is also a bit underpowered when you get in some of the heavy traffic around here... It will go plenty fast (I've had it past 100) but it takes a long time to get there.

I have seen some mid-90s S350 turbodiesels for sale and was interested... until I heard about the 3.5 problems.


-Joe