mhickman73

Greetings MB forum.

I'm looking into buying a 2002 C230 kompressor coupe with a 6spd manual. I find this to be a fairly cool car, but I have no idea if it's a decent vehicle compared to other MB models. I have an opportunity to buy a 2002 with no sunroof or leather and with the airbag light on. However it has only 73k and runs great.

Bottom line, I can get it for $3,000. Is this a good deal? I tend to think yes, but I would greatly appreciate any feedback.

Thanks so much!

Matt

SeaCoupe

An airbag light is no joke. In fact, any electrical issues on these cars is problematic. Has the car been in an accident? The durability of the m111 engine is well known, but unfortunately the electrics are a weak link. Caveat Emptor. I would have the car inspected by a Mercedes technician to find out what is wrong with the car. You don't want to buy a 3k dollar money pit.

funnyent

I would walk away from this deal! I bought on 03 with nothing wrong and it has had several severe electrical problems that I had to address. If the airbag light is already on, it seems risky for what hasn't shown up yet. These early 00's cars had a lot of electrical issues, which I really would not want to have to deal with again. The engine should be fine, but the electrical problems can really get annoying. If you want a w203 benz, go for 2005 or later (post facelift) as much of the electrical problems were sorted out.

tommy

2002's are also well known for their rust problems. I(f your heart's dead set on a coupe, you'll have to weigh the rust/electrical problems of the 02s against the whimpy engines of the 03-on coupes.

I really wouldn't recommend it as a used car overall, though.

funnyent

Completely agree. I love my C230 when it is running and everything works, but the electrical issues, and just problems in general with a 10 year old car make me regret my purchase. Although my car looks brand new, the previous owner just did not take care of it well. You may not want to hear it but I would spend that money on a newer used Honda or Toyota.

These cars are great if they were maintained, but if the owner slacked on that they can be an absolute nightmare and money pit (I unfortunately learned from experience).

VVF

Would you mind telling a bit about those electrical problems, or perhaps there are some links? Thanks!

funnyent

In my car I've had repeated SRS airbag faults, a battery voltage regulator fault tripping the ESP and Brake assist, random times where the power mirrors would stop working, and an extremely temperamental rear sunshade. Just last week the amp broke and started draining my car's battery overnight, so I don't have a radio right now.

Just do a google search for "W203 electrical problems" and there are many different post on various forums about the issues. The engines and transmissions in these cars are great, but once they are getting to be >10 years old the electrical is very iffy.