Daughter's first car
05-30-2003, 11:52 PM
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1999 C230 Sport Kompressor
Daughter's first car
Hey guys! I'm considering purchasing a 190E 2.6 for my 16 year old daughter. I'd appreciate some feedback as to what your experience has been with the 190E 2.6. From what I've read, they seem to be reliable cars.
msport3
msport3
05-31-2003, 12:36 PM
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See sig.
Great car
Just examine it's records carefully and have it looked over by a good mechanic. 3 common issues I'm aware of:
1 - Poor AC compressor function
2 - Flex discs needing to be replaced
3 - Head gasket leaks, which are expensive to get fixed.
Good luck w/ the search
1 - Poor AC compressor function
2 - Flex discs needing to be replaced
3 - Head gasket leaks, which are expensive to get fixed.
Good luck w/ the search
05-31-2003, 01:58 PM
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'85 190E 2.3-16 '99 C280 '11 GLK350
What a lucky daughter (I shall hold back my opinions of 16 year old drivers) and the 190E is a great car, for any age group.
The 2.6L M103 engine is a tight fit in the engine bay designed for the 2.3L M014 4 cylinder. The advantage is more HP and with the six and hydraulic lifters, a much smoother response. The A/C systems on all of the 190's were underdesigned for American use, most european models didn't have them. Before buying any car, have it inspected by a reputable mechanic familiar with the brand, especially Mercedes. Do a "leak down" test of each cylinder to check the top end. Mercedes acknowledged a problem with their valve seals shrinking over time causing some leaks if the oil level weren't maintained. Inspect maintenance records and see if the timing chain tensioner has been replaced or if it should be.
The 2.6L M103 engine is a tight fit in the engine bay designed for the 2.3L M014 4 cylinder. The advantage is more HP and with the six and hydraulic lifters, a much smoother response. The A/C systems on all of the 190's were underdesigned for American use, most european models didn't have them. Before buying any car, have it inspected by a reputable mechanic familiar with the brand, especially Mercedes. Do a "leak down" test of each cylinder to check the top end. Mercedes acknowledged a problem with their valve seals shrinking over time causing some leaks if the oil level weren't maintained. Inspect maintenance records and see if the timing chain tensioner has been replaced or if it should be.
06-09-2003, 11:24 AM
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Originally posted by msport3
Thanks for the information. I ended up not buying the 190E 2.6 and bought a BMW 318ti instead.
Thanks for the information. I ended up not buying the 190E 2.6 and bought a BMW 318ti instead.
The 190E will last longer and have less maintenance.
Go to the BMW Forum now.
Just kidding.
Last edited by E-Klasse; 06-09-2003 at 01:47 PM.
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06-12-2003, 01:15 PM
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e320 2000
We all make mistakes
Get the Beeeeeeemer out of your system and come back to Benz!
I did.
The b's are good cars but I have to agree to keep your checking account funded.
I did.
The b's are good cars but I have to agree to keep your checking account funded.
