jte3470

I just bought a 2004 with 42000 miles on it and it seems like a great car, but I don't know about modern Mercedes Benz reliability, I know the older ones are very reliable.

06E5004ME

There is a search function on this forum - use it. Airmatic and SBC are major items that can and will need to be replaced if weren't already. Other than that, pretty much like any other German car out there.

Rayt29

I have a 2004 E500 4matic with 117k (only owner) and very few issues. I did have a leak in the Airmatic but it was just an issue with the hose connection from the shock to the expansion tank and it was an easy fix, the aluminum was a bit corroded. It does eat tires, I'm sure it's the combination of the 4Matic and the weight of the car. I just noticed I have a leak in the power steering, we'll see how that goes.

Starting at 75k miles I started changing the oil every 5k and using Mobile 1, 0-40. The last time the transmission fluid was replaced was at 50k. I'm sure with the miles I have there's more on the horizon.

Good luck with your purchase...

vettdvr

Those are the two biggies. Small ones are ac blower fan, hot water heater valve, battery going dead over night, ball joints early failure.

sthoms

Just got a '04 E55 about 2 months ago and was "initiated" within the first week.
Replaced the Airmatic Pump and Front Struts. Did the struts first, per a Mercedes diagnostic which was wrong. Did the pump next and solved the problem. ~$1200 ;-(
While in the front end, I noticed loose upper ball joints, so did all 4 since I had read of the issues on the forums. ~$200

All I can say is read, read, and read more of the forums. What people talk about are the items you will likely see.