xvanusc

WLooking at a 40k mike c230 for $5k. What advice is there when looking at older MB? Will this last? Will it cost a fortune to maintain in next five years and 50k miles?

Any help is greatly appreciated!!!!

khomer2

Welcome xvanusc,

imo, 99 was the last year of the reliable pre-facelift w202s. Kompressor would be better.
Look at the history and ownership maintenance/replacement records first, how it was stored/garaged, owner, etc.
You haven't mentioned any details on this find of yours.
Remember, this is a 20+ year old sedan, so you will need to do a proper inspection for all the mechanical, wiring, rust (doesnt discrimminate
In general, if the w202 has been treated well, (and with that low a mileage), you should have yourself a fine vehicle.
You will want to do the regular maintenance.
I recommend you do a search with "buying advice" or similar on the w202 forums here and on the other mb website (and the stickys) to get an idea of what to expect,

xvanusc

Thank you khomer2.

So the history on this vehicle is that it was purchased in Canada in February of 2008 with 46,000 KM (28,500 Miles) and then driven down to Sarasota. As far as I can tell it is a two owner car, but I cannot confirm the history prior to the 2008 sale date. It was garage kept until 2 weeks ago. It now has 64,000 KM (39,700) and will be for $4500 now. I have not taken it to a mechanic yet to look at it. The owner does NOT have maintenance records. When I looked at the engine, the entire compartment looks clean and the hoses and rubber do not look worn or brittle. I looked underneath and at the underside of the doors and I did not see any rust. I was on the ground looking, so I could have missed something. I have downloaded a check list for a a used car buying guide, but would love to see any MB specific ones.

In your opinion, this vehicle would be a good one to consider pending the inspection?

khomer2

I'm presuming Eastern Canada (ie. Ontario region?) was it's origins. It seems like this W202 was cared for and likely driven minimal in the winter (no mention of a set of winter tires with this sale?)
What does the carfax report indicate on any claims etc?
What type of tires- summer, a/s? Have you checked the tire wear? Spare tire use (any)?

This sounds like a good find. $4500cdn dollars? ($3300usd) reasonable price.
Put it under a reliable mechanics check-up.

Typically on the WestCoast over here, w202s 230 230k 280s for sale are in the mileage range of 180k-250k+ kms and asking prices of anywhere from $600 (running but not pretty - gets you from A to B) to $3500-$4000
and most likely with some rust and body battle wounds, 3-4 ownership and definitely a lack of records.

xvanusc

Thank you again!

I will make sure to check the tires as I never thought about that. Another owner at the Club I work at drove the vehicle and mentioned possible snow tires on the vehicle. The price is in US dollars though for the $4500. From what I am finding out, it seems to be a solid deal and reasonable. Pending the mechanics check-up that is.

I will update you on the check up and I hope to have an answer this weekend.

Also, this is the Kompressor version as well!

xvanusc

The attached is the mechanics appraisal.

First he said to get after minor trans leak.
Next was at least one new tire.
Flex disc could go a little longer, rear view side mirror needs replaced but is optional.

jamesjohnst

Check out this series of videos on buying an older MB

xvanusc

Thanks! I did purchase the vehicle for $4000. I will post more information later about it as well. I found out it was a single owner since new. so I am the second owner and I found the first few years of MB service records in the owners manual, but the last few years while in Sarasota are not to be found

I am going to watch the video now!

jamesjohnst

Congratulations, I bought a 1998 C 230 Last November and love it.

khomer2

Great news xvanusc,

Keep us posted.
Not easy finding an ultra low mileage one owner Kompressor.
Many of the items on the list, you can do yourself if you wish to save good money.
As for the left sideview mirror....$436?? WTfudge... what's the issue with this?

xvanusc

I did purchase the vehicle and I am VERY pleased with it! I am looking to buy parts for the Flex Joints (front and rear) and then the drivers side mirror. The guy quoted 436 for I bet the part and labor It has lost it liquid and is not good at all so I do need to replace it.

but so far everything is great. I will post interior and more exterior pictures later. For now I am posting a quick exterior photo.

I have been doing a ton of research on OE, OEM and aftermarket parts. I am wanting to buy Lemforder flex discs but cannot find a retailer who has them. Any suggestions on best OE and OEM parts?

Thank you!

My new ride!

jamesjohnst

Try these
https://ecklersmbzparts.com/
https://www.partsgeek.com/
https://mercedessource.com/

xvanusc

Thank you!

khomer2

Do a search on the forums here and the other forum, under the various MB vehicles as well as pelicanparts forum.
You will get a good list of the reputable suppliers and most important original oem and good aftermarket components.
For suspension and motor, stay clear away from non-oem replacement parts. One supplier in mind is URO - total garbage. You save nothing & that is the consensus of many of the members.

dlute1

Pretty little Baby Benz. I have a '99 C230K that I purchased with 72K miles on it 5 years ago. Work that I have done on mine include oil and filter changers, air filters (exterior and interior), front and rear brakes; rear differential fluid; all 4 shocks; front wheel bearings; steering damper; power steering fluid change. Stuff at the shop included MAF sensor issues; coils; transmission drain and fill; lower control arms; Pretty reliable little car that you can do a lot of your own maintenance on. I am tackling upper control arms myself next. Have fun with your Baby Benz! ZOOM ZOOM!