HELP! Buying a w202
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Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 449
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
HELP! Buying a w202
So normally I'm on the 190e section of the site. but, I'm looking into getting myself a w202.
I'm looking for a 2000, C230 Kompressor.
I'm new to cars with super chargers. I understand the concept of how they work and all that. But, I've never owned a supercharged car.
My choice is between this car and a dodge stratus. I HATE american cars. Ive owned BMW and Benz since I could drive and I love them.
I wanted to know what I should be aware of when purchasing a supercharged car? what kind of special cost might incur. Oil, filter, gas, anything. Also, with this car specifically, brake jobs, wheel bearing, tie rods, are these parts for this car replaced often?
I'm hoping to get one with around 50-70k on it. Does anyone have one with over 100, over 150k? What kind of problems should i be looking for at certain mileage? I drive about 30k a year. So ill be seeing these numbers soon.
You guys are the best people to ask. You know from experience.
If this car has a lot of problems after 100k I really don't want to get into it. I'd rather have a warranty that comes with the 2005 stratus for the same price with about 14k miles. but then i also have to drive, a front wheel drive, under engineered, cloth seated, piece of crap. I'm not looking forward to it.
Also, what kind of racing intake can I get? does it matter with the super charger if i change it? Ill probably just do a K&N filter unless they make a full intake. If i can.
(I actually like cloth seats, but not when its the only option)
Any comments and suggestions would be amazing. Thanks guys.
I'm looking for a 2000, C230 Kompressor.
I'm new to cars with super chargers. I understand the concept of how they work and all that. But, I've never owned a supercharged car.
My choice is between this car and a dodge stratus. I HATE american cars. Ive owned BMW and Benz since I could drive and I love them.
I wanted to know what I should be aware of when purchasing a supercharged car? what kind of special cost might incur. Oil, filter, gas, anything. Also, with this car specifically, brake jobs, wheel bearing, tie rods, are these parts for this car replaced often?
I'm hoping to get one with around 50-70k on it. Does anyone have one with over 100, over 150k? What kind of problems should i be looking for at certain mileage? I drive about 30k a year. So ill be seeing these numbers soon.
You guys are the best people to ask. You know from experience.
If this car has a lot of problems after 100k I really don't want to get into it. I'd rather have a warranty that comes with the 2005 stratus for the same price with about 14k miles. but then i also have to drive, a front wheel drive, under engineered, cloth seated, piece of crap. I'm not looking forward to it.
Also, what kind of racing intake can I get? does it matter with the super charger if i change it? Ill probably just do a K&N filter unless they make a full intake. If i can.
(I actually like cloth seats, but not when its the only option)
Any comments and suggestions would be amazing. Thanks guys.
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
My girlfriend has a 2000 , I love the car.We picked it up with 39k on clock and we are now approaching 78k,with relatively no issues ( knock on wood).We recently replaced all for rotors with cross-drilled and slotted from I-Rotors ($225.00 -shipped) off ebay ,very happy.K&N was instaaled 2 days after purchase.Let me go over the repairs - Shifter assembly had to be replaced ($165.00) , rear differential seal had to be replaced - as with my C43 - seems common problem with W202's.Gas tank indicator sending unit is acting up - common MB problem - fill the tank up and needle stays at "E".The motor and tranny are very reliable, with proper maintainance you should get 150k easy.Use synthetic motor oil - change every 5K and please...if you purchase this car..please get the tranny "flushed".Every MB mechanic will tell you its good to 100k....bull*****...just do it.Other than that its a great car, I actually look forward to driving hers when I get opportunity.Please post some pics if you buy it and good luck! 
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 449
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
thanks
I'm going to be taking some time to consider all my options with this car. I'm only 20 years old and i don't want to spend 10k on a car and then something Mercedes Benz expensive breaks. But im very excited about getting one.
Do i want to flush it, or change the fluid and new filter because i hear flushes are bad. Do i have to use MB fluid, I think after 98 they changed to a new tranny and its a must i heard?
Do i want to flush it, or change the fluid and new filter because i hear flushes are bad. Do i have to use MB fluid, I think after 98 they changed to a new tranny and its a must i heard?
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
I would have it "flushed"By flushing ot you insure that all the fluid has been evacuated from the torque converter.As far as maintenance issues , remember this, most of your present and future maintenance issues will be predicated upon the past maintainance procedures that were and were not done.Being a previous Benz & BMW owner you know the value of proper maintenance.I would not be afraid to purchase this car unless it was obviously abused.BTW,Iwould also do the plugs and fuel filter. As far as tranny fluid , MB is fine....a few of the guys in the AMG section are running Royal Purple.In this particular instance I think I would stick with MB.
As far as tranny fluid , MB is fine....a few of the guys in the AMG section are running Royal Purple.In this particular instance I think I would stick with MB.
Last edited by C43AMG; Mar 3, 2007 at 05:28 PM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
ok
ok, im going to be doing a full tune up, plugs, wires, cap and rotor if it has one, tranny flush, fuel filter, air filter, cabin filter, tires most likely, oil change, basically anything i can think of so i know when it was done.
I guess the best thing about buying a MB or BMW, is most people who own them, take care of them.
What about the intake system? can i get a full intake, or do i have to just get the new filter? Does it really make a difference. I want to save on gas, but also get a little faster, i hear intakes are the way to go.
I guess the best thing about buying a MB or BMW, is most people who own them, take care of them.
What about the intake system? can i get a full intake, or do i have to just get the new filter? Does it really make a difference. I want to save on gas, but also get a little faster, i hear intakes are the way to go.
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
I've seen a few "backyard" intakes done , but nothing that I would consider doing.I would recommend just dropping in the K&N.You may read on this forum/board about changing pullies and chips etc.You end up spending a decent piece of change to pick-up 10-20 hp but in my eyes with this car it isn't worth the "modding headache".Keep the money in your pocket for other things (maintenance etc).
Thread Starter
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
Ive already heard of the pulley set-up. Not wasting the money. I just wanted the intake to sound good. and to get me alittle better mpg while adding a few hp. i saw an intake system on ebay. im really going for sound as far as doing a full intake. weapon r makes a really nice intake. they sound amazing and they have a really good design. but they ony make intakes for the 6 cyl and 8 cyl. ill probably end up keeping it stock. Im changing the headlights, and doing the grill custom. we'll see how it all goes.. ill put up picks as i go along. If i get it.
I like the people in the w202 better then 190e section. No one ever talked to me in there when i had problems even with like 60 views. You guys seem like a more friendly bunch. ill be glad to officially join this area!
I like the people in the w202 better then 190e section. No one ever talked to me in there when i had problems even with like 60 views. You guys seem like a more friendly bunch. ill be glad to officially join this area!
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2000 C230 sport
i actually just purchased a 2000 c230 sport. 92k miles on it, and not CPO (8k miles? haha) but i did get the 1 year warranty (which is renewable). it also had a complete service history...and with the options it has, it was definitely special ordered from Germany. that means that its in tip-top condition. it seriously looks new.
anyway, from what i hear, the 2000 is a TANK, and it is the last year of the w202 (which was around since 94, supposed to be 93, but whatever). im just knocking on wood.
it is depressing to come on here and see ppl with w202 problems...are they REALLY that bad?! but hey, at least this forum is amazing at providing help in case all goes wrong...
anyway, from what i hear, the 2000 is a TANK, and it is the last year of the w202 (which was around since 94, supposed to be 93, but whatever). im just knocking on wood.
it is depressing to come on here and see ppl with w202 problems...are they REALLY that bad?! but hey, at least this forum is amazing at providing help in case all goes wrong...
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,761
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
i actually just purchased a 2000 c230 sport. 92k miles on it, and not CPO (8k miles? haha) but i did get the 1 year warranty (which is renewable). it also had a complete service history...and with the options it has, it was definitely special ordered from Germany. that means that its in tip-top condition. it seriously looks new.
anyway, from what i hear, the 2000 is a TANK, and it is the last year of the w202 (which was around since 94, supposed to be 93, but whatever). im just knocking on wood.
it is depressing to come on here and see ppl with w202 problems...are they REALLY that bad?! but hey, at least this forum is amazing at providing help in case all goes wrong...
anyway, from what i hear, the 2000 is a TANK, and it is the last year of the w202 (which was around since 94, supposed to be 93, but whatever). im just knocking on wood.
it is depressing to come on here and see ppl with w202 problems...are they REALLY that bad?! but hey, at least this forum is amazing at providing help in case all goes wrong...
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 748
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From: Boston, MA
E53
I traded my 2000 C230K SE last month. The car had 94k miles on it. The only major problem was the fuel pump, it died at around 80k miles. That was pretty much it after the warranty went out. Before that was just some minor stuff like moonroof switch, led went out on the AC unit..etc.
Since 2000, I used the touch-shift to down/up shift daily, the tranny was still as strong as day one.
Just change your oil with any decent motor oil every 5k miles or so, check your other fluid regularly, throw in some new belts or tubings..etc. your W202 will be good for 150k+ miles easy.
As far as performance goes, don't waste your money on any intakes for the C230K. You will need to custom your own but the gain might be little. Since you want drive this thing for a long time, you should really stay away from messing with the engine. However, if you must.. go with a good exhaust system. that should help you a bit. I had Supersprint from mid to rear. It gave a smoother ride on the freeway.
keep in mind that..some w202 might have more problems than another. buy on a day that when you feel extra lucky. haha
Since 2000, I used the touch-shift to down/up shift daily, the tranny was still as strong as day one.
Just change your oil with any decent motor oil every 5k miles or so, check your other fluid regularly, throw in some new belts or tubings..etc. your W202 will be good for 150k+ miles easy.
As far as performance goes, don't waste your money on any intakes for the C230K. You will need to custom your own but the gain might be little. Since you want drive this thing for a long time, you should really stay away from messing with the engine. However, if you must.. go with a good exhaust system. that should help you a bit. I had Supersprint from mid to rear. It gave a smoother ride on the freeway.
keep in mind that..some w202 might have more problems than another. buy on a day that when you feel extra lucky. haha
Last edited by sanf; Mar 12, 2007 at 09:51 AM.
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2000 C230 sport
IMHO -as with anything you buy used , some of the present and future problems can be directly attributed to the previous owner and their maintenance schedule.It wouldn't be fair to attach a tag of "problematic" or "unreliable" to a vehicle because the previous owner chose not to do the required or recommended maintenance.
MBWorld Fanatic!
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
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2000 C230 sport
but then whats the point of FSS? im nto saying i want to change it more than 10k, but around 10k is the plan. besides, this really is badass oil...
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From: Boston, MA
E53
Thread Starter
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 449
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
I was considering a w203. because really for the same money i can get a 230k sport coupe. The only problem i had with that, is owning a Mercedes Benz that doesnt have power seats or leather.
Also, my most favorite part of the w202 is the wood trim on the top of the dash. The only other car I know of with this is the 06 Maxima. It just looks so nice I dont know why more cars didnt do it.
Plus, if I was going to get a w203 I would end up spending 20 thousand on a budget of about 10-14.
I drive about 36,000 miles a year. I get an oil change in the first week of every month. I will contuniue to do so no matter what car I get.
I think my plan is to buy a w202, mod it out to my likling. (before and after pics of course) Keep it for about a year. Then sell it and get a 2006 Stratus.
It seems like the best thing. I can have my fun with the MB. Sell it to someone else who can have fun ith it. Another MB enthusist. Then get the Dodge. If I do that. I can have my fun, sell the benz probably for 2k less then what i paid, then get the dodge at the deflated value saving about 2 thousand overall. Seems like the best decion to me. and in a year, we will see where im at in my life. Maybe Ill get a newer Benz!
Also, my most favorite part of the w202 is the wood trim on the top of the dash. The only other car I know of with this is the 06 Maxima. It just looks so nice I dont know why more cars didnt do it.
Plus, if I was going to get a w203 I would end up spending 20 thousand on a budget of about 10-14.
I drive about 36,000 miles a year. I get an oil change in the first week of every month. I will contuniue to do so no matter what car I get.
I think my plan is to buy a w202, mod it out to my likling. (before and after pics of course) Keep it for about a year. Then sell it and get a 2006 Stratus.
It seems like the best thing. I can have my fun with the MB. Sell it to someone else who can have fun ith it. Another MB enthusist. Then get the Dodge. If I do that. I can have my fun, sell the benz probably for 2k less then what i paid, then get the dodge at the deflated value saving about 2 thousand overall. Seems like the best decion to me. and in a year, we will see where im at in my life. Maybe Ill get a newer Benz!
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2000 c230k
I've posted before about my 2000 c230 problems, but it's been a while since the last break down. Bought the car for 13K, car had 46,000 miles. Had it inspected at MB dealer and got a warranty to 100,000 miles for $3,000. So far I'm a few thousand in the hole in the past 6 months on top of the $4,000 my warranty has paid out. I guess I'm an unlucky one. Still keeping the car because I know exactly what's been done and the car has a lot of new parts. Same boat as you for the most part, couldn't give up the two tone leather, heated seats, brake assist, supercharger, flip down rear seat, electric headrests, etc, etc... for a new Nissan Sentra or stratus type vehicle. Watch out for wiper problems $$, bearings failing $$$$, rear differential leak $, ball joints/control arm bushings $$$, and regular service visits ($200 alignment, $120 oil changes, $200 keys...). Still love taking it onto the highway and hearing the supercharger wind up to 90mph and stop just as fast. Also, not talked about much but car is more than acceptable in snow/rain with the ESP traction system.
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
I do my aligment every 4-6 months. I get oil changes once a month. Doesnt matter what i drive. Where I go its the same price for all of that. Im kinda just waiting for the time to find one to drive. The one I want to buy is in Naples. Its about 3 hours north of me I beleive. I just dont have time to go out there right now. I think im going to wait a month or so. Keep my eye out for one. Im still researching the dodge, and the benz. Anyone know the top speed of the 2000 c230k? I know its got more HP then the 1999, thats why i want the 2000. Plus, I like the shifter more on the 2000. 
Edit- I dont use my wipers.. I just rain-x the crap out of all the glass in my car.
Edit- I dont use my wipers.. I just rain-x the crap out of all the glass in my car.
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5,761
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From: North Carolina
98 Black C43 , 12’ ML 350 Blutec
Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 101
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From: Portland Area
2000 C230K and 2002 ML320
I just bought a Starmarked 2000 C230K... I love it... has 53k miles... paid 14k for it... I bought it to replace my W124 Coupe... too many issues to fix... I have not regreted buying a 202 as a replacement... it's fast, comfortable and has zero issues... knock on wood!!
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2000 C230 sport
I've posted before about my 2000 c230 problems, but it's been a while since the last break down. Bought the car for 13K, car had 46,000 miles. Had it inspected at MB dealer and got a warranty to 100,000 miles for $3,000. So far I'm a few thousand in the hole in the past 6 months on top of the $4,000 my warranty has paid out. I guess I'm an unlucky one. Still keeping the car because I know exactly what's been done and the car has a lot of new parts. Same boat as you for the most part, couldn't give up the two tone leather, heated seats, brake assist, supercharger, flip down rear seat, electric headrests, etc, etc... for a new Nissan Sentra or stratus type vehicle. Watch out for wiper problems $$, bearings failing $$$$, rear differential leak $, ball joints/control arm bushings $$$, and regular service visits ($200 alignment, $120 oil changes, $200 keys...). Still love taking it onto the highway and hearing the supercharger wind up to 90mph and stop just as fast. Also, not talked about much but car is more than acceptable in snow/rain with the ESP traction system.
Last edited by tex07; Mar 13, 2007 at 03:21 PM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Florida, Tampa
1993 190E 2.6
realistically I dont see myself keeping the car mroe then 2 years. I drive too much to keep it that long. 36k a year. If I buy one with 75k on it. I dont want it for too much longer then 2 years or 150k. It really depends on the problems I have with it at that time though.
I only want the stratus because its the only american I like, at the price range, with a factory warranty.
Im only 20. I want something reliable if im going to spend over 10k on a car. But, at the same time I want something fun to drive. Thats nice. Im really hoping that in the next year or two I just have enough money to get a newer MB Because im not really looking forward to driving a front wheel drive car again. exspecially an american one. I had a Maxima once. 
I only want the stratus because its the only american I like, at the price range, with a factory warranty.
Im only 20. I want something reliable if im going to spend over 10k on a car. But, at the same time I want something fun to drive. Thats nice. Im really hoping that in the next year or two I just have enough money to get a newer MB
Because im not really looking forward to driving a front wheel drive car again. exspecially an american one. I had a Maxima once.
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The car had full service records and was a one owner registered to a local doctor. From all the inspections they say it's just been bad luck. But who knows, I still maintain it AND drive it hard so go figure. You should get a 2005 Ford 500 SE w/ 10K miles, I'm joking. In terms of reliability why not go for a 2001 es300 or 2002 es300 with 70-80k miles. Super reliable.
Last edited by 2000c230sport; Mar 13, 2007 at 09:46 PM.
