Hi there, I am new to Merc's having had several Volvo's in the past. I just recently acquired a C220 automatic diesel, 03/2000 Elegance wagon.

I knew the car was a bit of a risk buying, even though it has just passed registration inspection. The body is perfect and has no rust. It has just over 500,000 km's which was obviously a concern. The gearbox also slips a bit but I can usually get around that with the way I use the accelerator.

My question to the forum is how to best nurse the old girl without spending a fortune on it. It has plenty of power and does not appear to be burning much oil, though the next few weeks will be a better indicator of that. There could be a slight growl in the crankshaft that causes a slight vibration in idle. The suspension is a bit floaty - shocks or springs? There appears to be no access to transmission fluid - wondering if it is worth putting in any additives and if recommended, how to do that?

Also, is there somewhere I can download for free a PDF in English for the owner's manual?
What would be the cost of a recon engine and gearbox for such a beast - pretty high or not worth the hassle?

 

Welcome please post picture of your ride

 

moved to W202 forum...

 

black beauty or beast?

 

really? no replies after one week? maybe I am on the wrong forum?

 

see attached... C280, but close enough...
change all fluids...
change bushings if they are bad...
engine/tranny, take it to reputable mechanic...

 

many thanks, this is a good start!

 

Welcome,

Your referring to a w202 that is OVER 18 YO. PLUS, it's a wagon, which is a not often seen.
Nontheless, it's a w202 so follow the recommended fluid, filter changes and lube (always recommended with any purchase unless the previous owner can provide documented proof of these recent maintenance updates)

As for it's 500Kkms mileage reading......if it's running in good condition with this type of mileage, it doesnt do that on it's own without some love.

 

Indeed, it seems that it has had a bit of love! I bought it recently maintenanced with oil change, new harmonic balance and various other bits and pieces to pass the roadworthy. My initial reservations have been more than put at ease with half a tank giving 600 kms and using not a drop of oil.
The only concern is a slipping gearbox occasionally from 2nd to 3rd or 3rd to 4th - depending on what speed I am doing.

 

You may wish to rest your transmission and have it relearn your own driving style. That may help. I would also see what history and transmission oil looks and feels like.

 

I do take it pretty easy with a gradual acceleration but it does not always help the change from 2nd to 3rd, needing extra acceleration to make it change. I will know more about the transmission oil next week, it apparently was changed recently. I would be interested to know that if I am going to put in an transmission additive, it has to be the correct one - any recommendations? I notice that transmission works slightly better in W (economy mode) than S (sports).