I'm considering buying a 2001 E430 Sport with 50k in excellent conditon. I talked to the mechanic who maintained it. Price 20K. Any feedback about reliability and such....

Dennis:

I have an '01 E430 Sport and its been flawless in the 6k miles and 5 months that I've owned it. (current mileage -- 50k)

Things to watch for at that age:

• motor mounts
• MAF sensor (can go out at any time)
• multi-function display pixelation problems (00-02 specific; temp and time/gear setting pixels become garbled .. easy DIY fix as opposed to replacing cluster)
• good time to replace factory "no scheduled maintenance" transmission fluid if not already done
• window regulators known to snap although I've had no problems
• change dust filter behind glove box if needed ... restricted air can overheat your blower regulator
• inquire with dealer to determine if your harmonic balancer is on the recall list -- mine wasn't.. just missed the cutoff
• decent 235/45/17 tires aren't cheap

Can't think of anything else. They're solid cars if maintained properly and very fun to drive. $20k is a good price depending on its condition considering this model's MSRP was ~$60k. What color is the car and what options does it have if you don't mind me asking?

Good Luck and welcome to the board

__________________
-Paul-
'01 E430, Sport 72,000 mi
'98 C280, 126,500 mi

Paul, thanks for the info. I appreciate it. Actually, my fiancee is on her way to pick up the car. I will let you know how it's outfitted soon since I really don't know all the particulars till later in the day. The mechanic who serviced it would buy it if I didn't. It's a dark midnight blue, Dennis