1993 Mercedes 190E - reliability - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

86560SEL · #1 07-08-2003, 09:55 PM

Hello. I am still in the market for a Mercedes, Lexus LS400 or Acura Legend / RL. I passed on the 84 300SD for $1500, but wish I had of bought it, as I often see it driving down a highway I travel on my way home from work. I have recently located a 1993 190E for $6995. in EC. It is a white w/tan, 1-owner car. I am not sure of the mileage yet. Any owners here of the 90s 190E's? Are they reliable cars? Trouble spots I should check out? I am also still considering a 80s 300SD, 300SDL, 500SEL/560SEL. Thanks again.

blackmercedes · #2 07-08-2003, 10:35 PM

Well, I've owned a few 190E's.

The 190E is a pretty durable little car, and the M102 four cylinder versions are tough, but not quick. The 2.6 is much quicker, but tougher to work on as the engine bay is quite crowded.

By 1993, the 190E, all versions, were pretty much sorted out. They are the best of the breed, by far.

On the 2.6L M103 versions you should watch out for the occasional leaking head gasket. Not the problem that the M104 is, but still should be checked. Valve seals tend to age before other top end components, but are not too tough to replace. The front engine gasket will also leak a bit, but nothing to get concerned over.

Both cars have four speed auto-boxes that usually last at least 150,000 miles with regular fluid/filter changes.

Plastic rads break just like any other car, and original or old rads should be suspect. Look for MB coolant and regular changes.

I drove all my 190E's to well over 300,000 kilometers without any major problems. (190K-miles) When I worked in sales I bought lower mileage 190E 2.3 cars and drove them and drove them and drove them and then sold them with high odo readings and having spent next to nothing on repairs.

Jim Anderson · #3 07-09-2003, 01:04 AM

I've had no problems with mine at 130,000 mi (I need to update my signature) except the fuel pumps (ouch x 2).

#4 07-09-2003, 07:01 PM

I just bought a 1993 190E and I love it! That said, I just replaced the head gasket as well! Luckily I could do it myself, and save $2000! But check everything out, and you should be alright. Check out this link, I'm a member there and you can find just about anything 190e related

www.190revolution.net

I personally think that $6999 is way too much for this car. I bought a limited edition that was the only 190E that came with leather and a couple of other things for $5000, so maybe you can negotiate with the guy. Good luck!

Limited Edition · #5 07-10-2003, 12:34 PM

I have 3 1993 190E 2.3s and they are all great! Very reliable, sturdy, and handsome.

ammdc7,
I have two 2.3 Limited Editions and I know that one of them is #378 of 700 but I don't know what number the other one is. Do you know what number yours is?

#6 07-10-2003, 06:49 PM

You know it's funny, the link I gave to www.190revolution.net, I asked everybody over there, and even contacted Mercedes, but no one could help me find this information. I bought the car from a dealership, but am the second owner, and the certificate seems to have been lost somewhere in the transaction! I really wish I could find out though. Great cars these 190E's. Man I love this car! (I'm going for a ride!!!)

86560SEL · #7 07-15-2003, 01:16 AM

Thanks for the replies. I may make them a offer on the car. Thanks again.

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