dubski63

I have decided to replace my aging eclass wagon. I'm pondering either an 06 R500, a newer ML 350 or an E320 Wagon. I have done a bunch of research and read both negative and positive comments with the R-Class. My question is to the people on here who own or have owned an R-Class. How are they maintenance wise compared to say an ML. I really like the style and roominess of the R-Class but I don't want it to nickel and dime to death. The particular model I'm looking at is an 06 AWD with 124,000 miles. What problematic things should I be on the lookout for. How much are yearly maintenance costs. My e-class aside from new tranny and tie rod ends has been pretty maintenance free. I want something with fewer miles and AWD. Is there someone that can give me some insights on which would be better for me. I am familiar with the ML and E-Class but not very familiar with the R-Class. Thank you. I am aware my mileage will go down.

AMGoneday

If you need a 3rd row or more cargo space go with the R. Any MB you go with I would want a extended warranty.
I think at 124000 miles that is a bit on the high side.
We have had no major issue with our R we love it but we need to sell to get a truck so how about a R63?

llcd

I got a 2007 R350 and we love the car. We like the roominess and smooth ride
because of its long wheel base (10 hour drive? no problem.). We did quite a bit of fixing over the years but
once the they were fixed they didn't re occur anymore. Try to get a model that wasn't the first released model.

josworth

I will put it a different way.... since you know the M, would you buy the one you are looking at if it was a M? If so, then you are good.... Mechanically and platform wise, the M and R are the same. Even built in the same place.....

In fact, when I decided I wasn't going to chase the inherit rear air spring issues, my coil spring replacements are actually M class part numbers.....

We have a 2006 R350. Ours is sitting at 100k miles and we have not had any of the major issues that others claim plague the 06 and 07....

Yu Chem

It would be nice if you could get the repair history on this car. So far there is well known issue wiht balance shaft sproket issue: https://eclaim.kccllc.net/caclaimforms/mse/home.aspx

Another common is transmission valve body. You can search this forum or M or E. AFAIK, all three Mercedes classes you have listed are in the same boat.

Suspension air bags are particular to R. Not on M but may be on E, not sure. They are considered consumable like tires or brakes. Originals to be replaced ~80K miles. Easy DIY job, cheap parts from Arnott.

marc hanna

I've only had my 2008 R320 CDI a couple days, but I'll keep you posted. I replaced my 2005 E320 4matic wagon. So far, all around it is a much nicer vehicle with ample room for my wife, me, and our 5 kids. I got mine with only 82,000kms on it, which is about 51,000 miles. So I don't expect any significant repairs for a while. Although, I think I while take it in for a tranny oil change.

Daniel Grey

R-class is better choice

dubski63

Thanks guys for the help. I like the idea of replacing the rear air springs for regular shocks. Supposedly it was owned by a Mercedes mechanic and all work has been done. However the unfortunate thing is I'm looking at this car long distance. It is in Denver and I'm in MT. I'm hoping to see it in September. I love the look and style of the R and the price is right. I do agree to never buy first Gen of anything so I'm not sure seeing as it is an 06 and the miles are a concern, but I bought my E Class with 161,000 miles so 124,000 is better.

dubski63

How much are you thinking. I am on a bit of a budget. I'm trying for less then 10,000 that is why I liked this one.

user 69696969

I believe the r63 is for sale for over 30k.