New owner

Diaxis · 07-28-2012, 03:21 AM

Hi, I am on the verge of buying a 2005 C230 Kompressor coupe, i was searching on forums to see what kind of problem i may get, i'm buying it from a friend witch bought it from a dealer 6 months ago. 107k kilos with extended warranty for an other 50k or 3 1/2 year. no problem ATM but im wondering if there is a problem for that model that i should be aware about before buying...

Thanks.

ps: this forum is huge so im sorry if i posted at the wrong place...

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ncmudbug · 07-28-2012, 11:19 AM

Welcome Diaxis! You're in the right place!

You should review any maintenance records. If yours has the auto tranny, you want to check when the last time the tranny fluid was changed. It should be changed every 60k km. You should also check that all the recalls have been applied to your car.

Something to watch out for in 80k km or so (long time in the future but I wanted to make sure you knew about this) is the way it sounds when you first start it up. The timing chain will stretch and make noise. If it stretches too much, it can jump a sprocket tooth and you'll need a new head.

Something else to be watchful of is a sound that sounds like a slipping belt or tires rubbing against a rubber floor. That is the sound of your sprag bearing going out and when it's done, it will take your A/C compressor with it.

Maybe somebody else can add some things to watch out for.

Follow the MB maintenance with approved products and it should be a good car for you.

Enjoy!

Diaxis · 07-28-2012, 01:48 PM

Well thank you, I have to go make an inspection before buying anyway, how many recall has been done for that car?

there was only 1 owner for the first 80k so i hope he was on time with the maintenance. I know that my friend took care of it for the time he had it. I have 6 speeds manual.

This will be my fist ''not garbage car'' I had a 1993 tercel, a 96 sunfire than a 2001 focus...this one should make me happy for years to come!

Also, an other question, whats the average cost for maintenance per year for that car? i know that it will cost me a lot more in parts than all my old americans haha, I would like to have a number in my head .

And by the looks of it you should see my pretty little face again on this forum !

ncmudbug · 07-28-2012, 02:59 PM

Try to get the car's maintenance history from the seller or from a dealer. You might be able to find out which if any have been applied (you might have to wait till you own the car). There is a very important one (campaign 2009100001) that is needed to keep oil out of your engine wiring harness - a pretty expensive proposition. I've kept a little list but I have no idea if it's complete. It's best to discuss this with your dealer.

Maintenance costs for my C230K sedan haven't been bad, but I've had to replace the A/C compressor twice (not sure why the first time, but the second was what I described in my previous post). My sedan also seems to wear out rear tires pretty quickly. If you strictly follow the MB recommendations, you'll replace your front disc rotors every 2 or three pad changes if you use MB pads. MB does not follow that because my wife's '06 C230 is a CPO and I changed her rotors when they were much more worn than the spec called for. I also use Akebono ceramic pads. They are supposed to be easier on the rotors. We'll see, but they produce very little dust and so my wheels are MUCH easier to keep nice. They bite a little differently from the OEM pads - not worse. I like them a lot!

A lot will depend on how much work you're willing to do yourself. You've probably found references to rmeuropean.com which is a great place to find parts. If you work on your own cars, one of your expenses will probably be tools. I had to buy a bunch of torx stuff. If you don't, you should find a good independent shop. The dealer isn't called a "stealer" on this forum for nothing.

Oil and filter changes are about every year (10K - 13K miles).

Do not get your spark plugs changed at the dealer. It is a huge rip off. Even if you don't do your own work, find a friend to help you.

Diaxis · 07-28-2012, 03:51 PM

your AC wasn't under warranty? If I work on the car myself im scared of canceling the warranty because of stupid stuff...

I thought MB dealers were great on the consumer support...looks like I was wrong...

do i need to check that with an MB dealer or from the last dealer that sold it to my friend(witch isn't a MB dealer)

ncmudbug · 07-28-2012, 04:05 PM

My car is an '05 so it's too old to have an MB warranty. When I bought the car, I got an extended warranty that did cover the first A/C compressor. Since it was done at a stealer, it had a one year warranty on the compressor however when it died the second time, my extended warranty had lapsed and because it died from the sprag bearing going - not a fault of the A/C compressor, it wasn't covered - how lucky am I?

I think the stealers are way too expensive, but they do give a one year warranty on all parts and service (I think that's right) so that is actually pretty good. They do have road side assistance but to keep that you have to take your car to their shop periodically. My stealer is honest but I try not to go to him because of the cost. I've heard of some that are not honest (at least from what some post here). I think the vast majority are honest.

I have done things like brakes, oil changes, fuel filter change, spark plugs. Simple things. I've never had a problem. My wife's car is due for her service and I've changed her oil and changed her oil, air, and cabin filters. The brake fluid is due to be replaced but I thought they might frown on my doing it so I left if for them (as I said, her car is an MB Certified Pre Owned. I know the extended warranty I had on my car wouldn't be voided by my working on the car). I think if you keep it to simple maintenance items, they should ok with that.

I forgot to tell you that if you practice heel-toe down shifting, you will probably want better pedal placement. I was told by another member about http://www.ultimatepedals.com. I'll be getting some for my car soon.

Diaxis · 07-28-2012, 04:23 PM

thank you for the fast replies, thats great then, it an 05 ill buy but still has 50k or 3 and a half year warranty. i have two friend that can work on the car with me. and thank you a lot for the link of rmeuropean.com!! but do they ship worldwide?

ncmudbug · 07-28-2012, 05:49 PM

Yes, they ship worldwide. Where are you?

Diaxis · 07-29-2012, 03:47 PM

Montreal

ncmudbug · 07-29-2012, 04:16 PM

No problem. Canada is a major market for them.

Diaxis · 07-29-2012, 04:34 PM

You answered all my question, I thank you for that! looking for financing this monday and if all goes well I'll be a proud owner of a 2005 C230 coupe by the end of the week!

ncmudbug · 07-29-2012, 04:41 PM

Don't forget to post pictures of your new baby!

Diaxis · 07-29-2012, 05:18 PM

I assure you , will be the first thing I do when i get home!

.
the most powerfull car i ever had was a 2001 focus, I was almost crying when i tried the MB friday haha

Diaxis · 07-30-2012, 12:36 PM

Is there a way with the VIN to know if there was a recall on it or anything? if anybody can help me getting info on the car please help

the VIN: WDBRN40J55A706695

ncmudbug · 07-30-2012, 07:01 PM

The best thing to do is go to a dealer and they can tell you if you have any recalls that need to be applied. You can do a search of this forum for "campaign" and you'll probably get some good info. You could start here: M271 2003-2005 C230 guys go to the dealer now free work/recall

Diaxis · 07-30-2012, 11:24 PM

i e-mailed MBC yesterday and there is no recalls outstanding for this car

im happy, now lets hope my credit is good enough to get the financing for the car!

ncmudbug · 07-30-2012, 11:28 PM

I'll keep my fingers crossed!

Diaxis · 07-30-2012, 11:56 PM

thanks, me too, I WANT IT SO BAD!!

Diaxis · 07-31-2012, 01:04 AM

I asked for more than i needed because i want to be able to do the couple of mods i want ASAP... but that may be my death call...hope it'll work

Kompressonator · 08-01-2012, 11:34 AM

i just bought an 03 and it has problems through the roof! but i love the car to death :/

Diaxis · 08-01-2012, 12:52 PM

GOT THE FINANCING!!! will have it by the week-end CAIT WAIT!!

EDIT: he won't have his new car by then

will have to wait a couple more days

in the meantime this is my new baby!

ncmudbug · 08-01-2012, 09:02 PM

Is it black or diamond black metallic?

Diaxis · 08-02-2012, 12:23 AM

i don't know haha for me it's just blackXD

ncmudbug · 08-02-2012, 08:23 AM

You'll be able to tell. In the sun, it is definitely blue with metal flakes, but out of direct light, it looks black.

Mine's diamond black metallic and although I prefer white or silver, I really like the color. It's just so hard to keep clean (yes - harder than white)!

Diaxis · 08-02-2012, 12:27 PM

well in that case, i saw it in bright light and it's just a nice shinny black!

07-28-2012, 11:19 AM	#2
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	Welcome Diaxis! You're in the right place! You should review any maintenance records. If yours has the auto tranny, you want to check when the last time the tranny fluid was changed. It should be changed every 60k km. You should also check that all the recalls have been applied to your car. Something to watch out for in 80k km or so (long time in the future but I wanted to make sure you knew about this) is the way it sounds when you first start it up. The timing chain will stretch and make noise. If it stretches too much, it can jump a sprocket tooth and you'll need a new head. Something else to be watchful of is a sound that sounds like a slipping belt or tires rubbing against a rubber floor. That is the sound of your sprag bearing going out and when it's done, it will take your A/C compressor with it. Maybe somebody else can add some things to watch out for. Follow the MB maintenance with approved products and it should be a good car for you. Enjoy! __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-28-2012, 01:48 PM	#3
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	Thanks Well thank you, I have to go make an inspection before buying anyway, how many recall has been done for that car? there was only 1 owner for the first 80k so i hope he was on time with the maintenance. I know that my friend took care of it for the time he had it. I have 6 speeds manual. This will be my fist ''not garbage car'' I had a 1993 tercel, a 96 sunfire than a 2001 focus...this one should make me happy for years to come! Also, an other question, whats the average cost for maintenance per year for that car? i know that it will cost me a lot more in parts than all my old americans haha, I would like to have a number in my head . And by the looks of it you should see my pretty little face again on this forum ! Last edited by Diaxis; 07-28-2012 at 02:00 PM. Reason: add other thoughts

07-28-2012, 02:59 PM	#4
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	Try to get the car's maintenance history from the seller or from a dealer. You might be able to find out which if any have been applied (you might have to wait till you own the car). There is a very important one (campaign 2009100001) that is needed to keep oil out of your engine wiring harness - a pretty expensive proposition. I've kept a little list but I have no idea if it's complete. It's best to discuss this with your dealer. Maintenance costs for my C230K sedan haven't been bad, but I've had to replace the A/C compressor twice (not sure why the first time, but the second was what I described in my previous post). My sedan also seems to wear out rear tires pretty quickly. If you strictly follow the MB recommendations, you'll replace your front disc rotors every 2 or three pad changes if you use MB pads. MB does not follow that because my wife's '06 C230 is a CPO and I changed her rotors when they were much more worn than the spec called for. I also use Akebono ceramic pads. They are supposed to be easier on the rotors. We'll see, but they produce very little dust and so my wheels are MUCH easier to keep nice. They bite a little differently from the OEM pads - not worse. I like them a lot! A lot will depend on how much work you're willing to do yourself. You've probably found references to rmeuropean.com which is a great place to find parts. If you work on your own cars, one of your expenses will probably be tools. I had to buy a bunch of torx stuff. If you don't, you should find a good independent shop. The dealer isn't called a "stealer" on this forum for nothing. Oil and filter changes are about every year (10K - 13K miles). Do not get your spark plugs changed at the dealer. It is a huge rip off. Even if you don't do your own work, find a friend to help you. __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-28-2012, 03:51 PM	#5
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	your AC wasn't under warranty? If I work on the car myself im scared of canceling the warranty because of stupid stuff... I thought MB dealers were great on the consumer support...looks like I was wrong... do i need to check that with an MB dealer or from the last dealer that sold it to my friend(witch isn't a MB dealer) Last edited by Diaxis; 07-28-2012 at 03:57 PM.

07-28-2012, 04:05 PM	#6
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	My car is an '05 so it's too old to have an MB warranty. When I bought the car, I got an extended warranty that did cover the first A/C compressor. Since it was done at a stealer, it had a one year warranty on the compressor however when it died the second time, my extended warranty had lapsed and because it died from the sprag bearing going - not a fault of the A/C compressor, it wasn't covered - how lucky am I? I think the stealers are way too expensive, but they do give a one year warranty on all parts and service (I think that's right) so that is actually pretty good. They do have road side assistance but to keep that you have to take your car to their shop periodically. My stealer is honest but I try not to go to him because of the cost. I've heard of some that are not honest (at least from what some post here). I think the vast majority are honest. I have done things like brakes, oil changes, fuel filter change, spark plugs. Simple things. I've never had a problem. My wife's car is due for her service and I've changed her oil and changed her oil, air, and cabin filters. The brake fluid is due to be replaced but I thought they might frown on my doing it so I left if for them (as I said, her car is an MB Certified Pre Owned. I know the extended warranty I had on my car wouldn't be voided by my working on the car). I think if you keep it to simple maintenance items, they should ok with that. I forgot to tell you that if you practice heel-toe down shifting, you will probably want better pedal placement. I was told by another member about http://www.ultimatepedals.com. I'll be getting some for my car soon. __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-28-2012, 04:23 PM	#7
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	thank you for the fast replies, thats great then, it an 05 ill buy but still has 50k or 3 and a half year warranty. i have two friend that can work on the car with me. and thank you a lot for the link of rmeuropean.com!! but do they ship worldwide?

07-28-2012, 05:49 PM	#8
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	Yes, they ship worldwide. Where are you? __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-29-2012, 03:47 PM	#9
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	Montreal

07-29-2012, 04:16 PM	#10
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	No problem. Canada is a major market for them. __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-29-2012, 04:34 PM	#11
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	You answered all my question, I thank you for that! looking for financing this monday and if all goes well I'll be a proud owner of a 2005 C230 coupe by the end of the week!

07-29-2012, 04:41 PM	#12
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	Don't forget to post pictures of your new baby! __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-29-2012, 05:18 PM	#13
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	I assure you , will be the first thing I do when i get home! . the most powerfull car i ever had was a 2001 focus, I was almost crying when i tried the MB friday haha

07-30-2012, 12:36 PM	#14
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	Is there a way with the VIN to know if there was a recall on it or anything? if anybody can help me getting info on the car please help the VIN: WDBRN40J55A706695

07-30-2012, 07:01 PM	#15
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	The best thing to do is go to a dealer and they can tell you if you have any recalls that need to be applied. You can do a search of this forum for "campaign" and you'll probably get some good info. You could start here: M271 2003-2005 C230 guys go to the dealer now free work/recall __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-30-2012, 11:24 PM	#16
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	i e-mailed MBC yesterday and there is no recalls outstanding for this car im happy, now lets hope my credit is good enough to get the financing for the car!

08-02-2012, 12:27 PM

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07-30-2012, 11:28 PM	#17
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	I'll keep my fingers crossed! __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

07-30-2012, 11:56 PM	#18
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	thanks, me too, I WANT IT SO BAD!!

07-31-2012, 01:04 AM	#19
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	I asked for more than i needed because i want to be able to do the couple of mods i want ASAP... but that may be my death call...hope it'll work

08-01-2012, 11:34 AM	#20
Kompressonator Newbie 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Join Date: Jul 2012 Posts: 6 Drives: c230k sportcoupe	i just bought an 03 and it has problems through the roof! but i love the car to death :/

08-01-2012, 12:52 PM	#21
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	GOT THE FINANCING!!! will have it by the week-end CAIT WAIT!! EDIT: he won't have his new car by then will have to wait a couple more days in the meantime this is my new baby! Last edited by Diaxis; 08-01-2012 at 01:19 PM.

08-01-2012, 09:02 PM	#22
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	Is it black or diamond black metallic? __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)

08-02-2012, 12:23 AM	#23
Diaxis Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Montreal,Qc Posts: 37 Drives: C230 Kompressor coupe 2005	i don't know haha for me it's just blackXD

08-02-2012, 08:23 AM	#24
ncmudbug MBWorld Fanatic! 1974 Lotus Europa Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 1,012 Drives: 2005 C230K, 2006 C230	You'll be able to tell. In the sun, it is definitely blue with metal flakes, but out of direct light, it looks black. Mine's diamond black metallic and although I prefer white or silver, I really like the color. It's just so hard to keep clean (yes - harder than white)! __________________ Mercedes Benz World Owner's Gun Club, Member #91 2005 C230K (Diamond Black Metallic) 2006 C230 (Iridium Silver) 1974 Lotus Europa (White)