Pros and Cons on a 2001 S430 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

420benz · #1 06-02-2009, 05:21 PM

Car has 58k and is in excel. cond. Dealer wants 14k for the car. Are there any common problems with this car?

Skid Row Joe · #2 06-02-2009, 05:50 PM

Buy it before someone else does. They're great cars, expecially for that kind of money.

TylerH860 · #3 06-02-2009, 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 420 benz

Car has 58k and is in excel. cond. Dealer wants 14k for the car. Are there any common problems with this car?

The only direct experience I've had with them is a friend of my parent's S430 traded in their car after facing a $7,000 transmission repair. I've heard the opposite from Joe, but it all would be conjecture from me. Keep in mind it is an 8 year old car, and I would suggest getting a PPI before purchase.

You can certainly count on it will cost alot more to maintain than your W126, ALOT more.

420benz · #4 06-02-2009, 08:09 PM

Thanks for the info.

bobs · #5 06-03-2009, 09:15 AM

The general consensus I have seen is that '00 - '03 cars can be problematic. Most of the major bugs were ironed-out after that.

TX76513 · #6 06-03-2009, 09:36 AM

Make sure the airmatic struts have been retro-fitted. There was a design problem- this is a very expensive repair if it has not been done.
The car is a great vehicle - just pretend the Command D navigation is not there. It is a useless toy.

david s poole · #7 06-03-2009, 09:52 AM

i agree with the previous post.the biggest problem with those cars was the front struts leaking air out of the tops.good test is to lift car up on lift and let down again.if suspension stays up all is good otherwise!!!