oldguard60

Hello MB'ers

I currently have a 2006 C230 Sport which is going to cost me about $7K! to fix the balance shaft. In talking to the mechanic, I asked him what MB he would recommend and he said a Used (2011+) E350 Bluetec.

I am coming onto here to find out what any of you recommend?

I seek your input and knowledge. I am NOT a fan of the MB brand right now (though my wife is and we all know what that means!) so I am looking for hard data to justify buying another one.

ANY INFORMATION You can provide (both pro and con) will be appreciated.

I am going to finance it for 7 years and hopefully keep it for a long time. I have kept my other MB for this long (bought in '07).

Thanks in advance.

OG

vaccin

Purchasing a vehicle in canada with the new laws regarding privacy is troublesome.
Finding vehicle history is illegal. Strange place its become.

Knowing vehicle history is important.

7 k for a balance shaft really.

oldguard60

Not sure how Canada came into this conversation. I live in the U.S.

Do you know anywhere I can get a balance shaft done cheaper?

vaccin

I was relating my experience with vehicle history which is easier for you which is great.

Who quoted you 7 k

oldguard60

Oh, ok.

Quote was provided by Luxury Auto Works

DubVBenz

I've had a W211 with the same engine and transmission for 5 years and it's been fine. I had to get a new valve body on the transmission due to speed sensors failing, but mine was the first version and susceptible to this.

I've looked at replacing it with the W212, but the only problem is the 212 is a bit heavier and they didn't increase output on the engine, so I'd be going to a slower car. If you do end up getting one, spring for the 2012/2013 models. They have a revised COMAND system as well as an updated transmission.


7 years though... I would not do that on a used car (or a new one), so weigh your decision heavily or just take your C230 to another shop and get a different quote.

Right now there's a firesale on 2014 C300/350s, that have a revised DI motor that is not susceptible to the balance shaft issues of earlier 350s (and I guess 230s? news to me), so you might be able to pick up a 2012-2014 C class for a lot cheaper.

Wodeshed

Balance shaft issue was primarily on the 2006 350/550 motors, although a certain proportion of the 2007s were affected as well.

Motor serial #s involved were through 2729xx 30 468993 for the 350.

Wodeshed

By the way, I'm here because I might be interested in a diesel again too. 17 y/o kid in an F150 rear ended me in my CLK 320 and pushed me into the car ahead. Finito.

I drove a 98 E300 Turbodiesel for ten years. Awesome car, but ditched it when the compressor went. How are the 2007+, aside from the 7 speed transmission issues?