190E 2.6..prospective purchase

I've been looking at a nice black 190E 2.6, black with tan interior. Has 112,000 miles, it looks very good. However...

What should I be looking for? I know what to look for on W123 diesels, anything in particular on these?

What are some of the problems?

I hear they are generally reliable.

The asking price is 3000, and its a 1989.

Comments?

[jfikentscher]

I had a 1987 2.6 190E. I loved it. Had the usual problems such as sunroof stopped working, ball joints, relays and fuses, brakes, fles joint, etc. Nothing major until the end and it was using alot of oil. So much so that the exhaust system clogged up thoroughly. I understand that this condition also causes oil to be sucked around the rings because the engine can't breathe. Never had any smoke except on hard acceleration. I bought it with 96,000 and sold it with 450,000. And it was fast!! Would buy another in a heartbeat!!

Joe

[suginami]

I don't think there are any major faults with these cars.

The 2.6 liter M103 engine is the same engine used in 300E 2.6 / 260E's.

It is also the same engine as the 3.0 liter engine in 1986-1992 300E's, but with a smaller bore.

I've noticed that this engine is extremely long-lived, and gets fantastic gas mileage, probably in the 24-26 mpg range.

The only periodic engine maintenance items would be valve guides and seals.

[Holson Adi]

That's a good price for that car! I'm sure you could negotiate it a little bit.