ringmaster

Hello MB C class owners,

I just bought a 1996 C280 w/55k miles that is in really nice condition. What do I need to know about these cars? I know I need to replace the headgasket and do a service 2 but is there other stuff that goes wrong?

Are there any good low-buck mods worth doing?

Thanks,

mbtech208

With 55K miles, you should be alright for a while. Some items tend to go bad as the miles add up, such as:

-Front lower control arm bushings (makes a steering wheel vibration)
-Driveshaft flex discs
-Shift linkage bushing (becomes brittle and falls out, making the shifter seem loose)
-Differential rear cover and axle shaft seals leak
-Head gasket leaks at right rear corner of head
-Belt tensioner becomes weak and noisy
-Cylinder head front cover leaks
-Steering shock absorber leaks
-Motor mounts collapse
-Brake light bulbs get too hot and melt the taillight units
-Door check straps wear out and make a loud popping noise when opening/closing doors
-Mass airflow sensor goes bad, makes the Check Engine light come on.

ringmaster

Hmmmm, sounds like a god sized list of $$problems$$ I hope I don't fall victim to all of those failures!

The car has a good size oil leak at the front of the headgasket area. I guess this could be the front cover or the h-gasket? I suppose it is best to replace both at the same time.

Would you mind listing some of the symptoms of the other problems?

Thanks

tpliquid

itz headgasket leak, most m104 engine has that problem

soldsep

m103 m104 engines are famouse for headgasket leaks