New purchase?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2016
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C class
New purchase?
Hi all, I was looking to ask a group of people who actually know about these cars as to whether this would be a good choice for my next car? My current vehicle is getting old and my friend has a C class and I've driven it and liked it, but I'm concerned with the long term longevity of these cars. Nothing in particular I've heard, but should any repairs need to be done, I'd imagine they're a bit expensive. So, I'm looking at getting an 05-07 C230 Sport, they usually have over 100k miles. I might go check some out in my area, what are some key points to look for? I live in Florida so rust won't typically be an issue. Also, what's the option with the aluminum dash inserts called? Thank you guys in advance!
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Joined: Aug 2015
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From: DC Metro Area
2007 Mercedes E550
Hi all, I was looking to ask a group of people who actually know about these cars as to whether this would be a good choice for my next car? My current vehicle is getting old and my friend has a C class and I've driven it and liked it, but I'm concerned with the long term longevity of these cars. Nothing in particular I've heard, but should any repairs need to be done, I'd imagine they're a bit expensive. So, I'm looking at getting an 05-07 C230 Sport, they usually have over 100k miles. I might go check some out in my area, what are some key points to look for? I live in Florida so rust won't typically be an issue. Also, what's the option with the aluminum dash inserts called? Thank you guys in advance!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 1,059
Likes: 73
From: DC Metro Area
2007 Mercedes E550
MBWorld Fanatic!
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From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
The chain can be replaced as a maint. item.
The balance shaft requires removing and tearing the whole engine apart and cost $5K-$10K to replace.
I'd go with an low mileage '05 and plan on replacing the chain, much better on gas too.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 7
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C class
Yes, but isn't the 07 prone to balance shaft issues due the gear wearing due to soft metal?
The chain can be replaced as a maint. item.
The balance shaft requires removing and tearing the whole engine apart and cost $5K-$10K to replace.
I'd go with an low mileage '05 and plan on replacing the chain, much better on gas too.
The chain can be replaced as a maint. item.
The balance shaft requires removing and tearing the whole engine apart and cost $5K-$10K to replace.
I'd go with an low mileage '05 and plan on replacing the chain, much better on gas too.
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2019 G70 6MT & 2022 Ford Maverick XL
You can get an 07 that is out of the range for the balance shaft. I had an 05 that I loved and that was great all the way through the 150,000 miles I put on it. But I didn't see it as worth the risk past that - and I won't recommend it now. Replacing the chain can be done, sure, but at a huge cost (unless you DIY, but that's not for the faint of heart). The lowest quote I've seen even from an indy was in the $2,000 range.
So I'd reiterate, my recommendation for the W203 is an 07 that you can verify is beyond the range for the balance shaft.
So I'd reiterate, my recommendation for the W203 is an 07 that you can verify is beyond the range for the balance shaft.
