1995 E320 Wagon

Looking at 2 different cars, one w/ 120k for around 8900 and one with 150k for around 7900. Both w/ excellent service history- wiring harnesses and head gaskets addressed.
question: do these cars have timing belts or chains and when do they require changing and how much $???
any other trouble spots to look for and ask about?
-shawnster

[suginami]

Originally Posted by shawnster

Looking at 2 different cars, one w/ 120k for around 8900 and one with 150k for around 7900. Both w/ excellent service history- wiring harnesses and head gaskets addressed.
question: do these cars have timing belts or chains and when do they require changing and how much $???
any other trouble spots to look for and ask about?
-shawnster

You've hit the two main big ticket items - head gaskets and wiring harnesses.

Mercedes has never used timing belts.

The chains on the six cylinders are very short and basically never need replacement.

[dtf]

Find out when the headgaskets were done. Not all replacement jobs used the updated gasket from what I've been told. I had mine done at 66,000 miles and now it is weeping coolant at 226,000 miles. Another well known item is the fan clutch at 200,000 miles. Count on going no where without snow tires if you get snow where you live. Look for water stains near the back windows. I go through a lot of steering dampeners - cheap item though.