I am considering a search for an E320 station wagon and would like some advice of what to look for. My search will be limited to either a 1994/95 car or to a 96/97 vehicle. Since I currently own a 95 E320 sedan, I am familiar with the problems with the E320 head gasket and wiring harness problems (have had both items shut me down), but are there other items on a 94/95 that I should pay special attention to? For the 96/97, what are the issues with these cars. These were the first years for the V6 and for the 5 speed driver adaptive automatic. I guess I am looking for advice as to what would be the best choice, assuming I can find one that has been well maintained. Thanks for the advice in advance.

V6 new from 98 on, not 96.

far as I know, main item to be wary of is the self-leveling system for rear suspension, otherwise you've already experienced the the worst of it (gasket/harness).

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1995 MB E320 Wagon
2001 BMW 530i
2007 MINI Cooper S (!)

Don't think there was a '96 wagon. it didn't come along until '97 or '98. my understanding is that the wiring harness problem was fixed by '96.

Yeah, for the record, MB went to the V6 engines in all gas models starting from model year 1998, except the S- class sedans (W140), which continued using the M104 3.2 liter in-line 6-cylinder engine until 1999.

As for my .02 cents, the things to look out for would be the engine wiring harness and head gasket leaks.

Other than a/c issues, which all MB's have (new and used), there is nothing really significant to look out for.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".

Having owned a used 1994 E320 Wagon for several years, I can tell you that the Starmark warranty is well worth it. The only problems my wagon has experienced, though, are the same issues of the sedan and coupe. In addition to the items listed above, I’ve had to replace the climate control fan (big job), the O2 sensor, the mass airflow sensor, and the sway bar bushings. Nothing unique to it being a wagon has come up.

If your wagon does not come with these options, consider asking the dealer to include them at no additional cost: Cargo cover/net (I found out the hard way that, unless you find a matching, salvaged cover/net, the oe dealer cost is approximately $1,000, CD changer, upgraded Michelin tires, and cup holders.

Overall, it’s by far the most practical, versatile vehicle I have ever owned. Its daily use is as kid hauler and grocery getter. On weekends I use it as the world’s most luxurious pickup truck. While it excels at both these functions, it really shines as grand touring/family vacation transportation.

Good luck,

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Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230