W203/CL203 Car Buyer's Guide - All you want to know and consider
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Wisconsin
We have a little more than 10,000 miles on our 2005 and thus far it has been reliable. The only unscheduled service was for a cracked hydraulic hose that needed to be replaced before delivery. Since then, no problems. It rides and drives quite nicely, and we've averaged more than 30 mpg. On the other hand, we got this car because M-B had to buy our unreliable 2002 back. That car was a disaster.
Is it the best value for your money in a new car? Probably not. You'd probably get more value from an Accord, or something similar. You'd get even more value for the money from a good used car, I suspect. We bought a Mercedes because of the reputation for safety. Others buy one for other reasons. If you value something about the car highly enough to want to pay the premium, then it's probably a good choice for you. And despite our experience, the odds of getting a lemon aren't that high. Ultimately, though, it's just a car, like any other. About 95% of its value lies in the transportation it provides, and everything else - image, looks, whatever - is maybe 5%.
Good luck with your choice
Is it the best value for your money in a new car? Probably not. You'd probably get more value from an Accord, or something similar. You'd get even more value for the money from a good used car, I suspect. We bought a Mercedes because of the reputation for safety. Others buy one for other reasons. If you value something about the car highly enough to want to pay the premium, then it's probably a good choice for you. And despite our experience, the odds of getting a lemon aren't that high. Ultimately, though, it's just a car, like any other. About 95% of its value lies in the transportation it provides, and everything else - image, looks, whatever - is maybe 5%.
Good luck with your choice
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,305
Likes: 37
From: Las Vegas, Nevada
2013 C350 Coupe, 2005 C230K Kleemann Sedan, 2013 GLK350 4matic
Welcome!
I've had my car for a little over three months now and I love it! I have Pewter exterior and Ash interior. For options, I have the sunroof package and the auto. transmission. I had the dealer install the Sirius Satellite radio (which I also love).
I would go for the '05 model year because of the cosmetic changes that MB did from previous years.
I hope you enjoy your purchase!
I've had my car for a little over three months now and I love it! I have Pewter exterior and Ash interior. For options, I have the sunroof package and the auto. transmission. I had the dealer install the Sirius Satellite radio (which I also love).
I would go for the '05 model year because of the cosmetic changes that MB did from previous years.
I hope you enjoy your purchase!
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: Texas
'05 C230wz SS Black on Black
Mikey -
I shopped the BMWs, the G35 Coupe, and many other cars when I finally settled on the 2005 C230 Sport Sedan. This is my 1st MB. I picked up a brand new black on charcoal model. I opted for the Sunroof package, Xenon light package, and the HK stereo - and the 60/40 rear seat split.
I gotta tell you --- this car rawks! I spent around $34k for the car in Dallas. All of my friends think I bought a $50k ride. It drives awesome, feels awesome, and looks incredible.
I have just put 13,000 miles on the car in just over 5 months.
Only problem I have had with the car is the front Michelin Sport tires. I bought the car in May 2004. All Michelin's tires put on the cars before June 2004 have had some problems. I am working with the dealership to get new ones. Definitely make sure the car was made after July to get the correct tire match.
FYI - you can still find some 2004 models on the dealer lots. The 2005 in a complete interior redesign with a few other tweaks. Only kicker for the 2004 is that it comes with free scheduled maintenance. Only comes to around $1200+ bucks over 3 years. Considering the depreciation value of buying a 1yr older car when the 2005 calendar year is right around the corner - I would stick with the '05 model and just pay out of pocket for the maintenance.
best of luck shopping.
- Trace
I shopped the BMWs, the G35 Coupe, and many other cars when I finally settled on the 2005 C230 Sport Sedan. This is my 1st MB. I picked up a brand new black on charcoal model. I opted for the Sunroof package, Xenon light package, and the HK stereo - and the 60/40 rear seat split.
I gotta tell you --- this car rawks! I spent around $34k for the car in Dallas. All of my friends think I bought a $50k ride. It drives awesome, feels awesome, and looks incredible.
I have just put 13,000 miles on the car in just over 5 months.
Only problem I have had with the car is the front Michelin Sport tires. I bought the car in May 2004. All Michelin's tires put on the cars before June 2004 have had some problems. I am working with the dealership to get new ones. Definitely make sure the car was made after July to get the correct tire match.
FYI - you can still find some 2004 models on the dealer lots. The 2005 in a complete interior redesign with a few other tweaks. Only kicker for the 2004 is that it comes with free scheduled maintenance. Only comes to around $1200+ bucks over 3 years. Considering the depreciation value of buying a 1yr older car when the 2005 calendar year is right around the corner - I would stick with the '05 model and just pay out of pocket for the maintenance.
best of luck shopping.
- Trace
Guest
Posts: n/a
Originally Posted by MBMikey4
Hey Everbody,New to the Site have been checking it out for about a month.Just wanted to see about getting some thought's from owner's, any year of the C230K Sport Sedan.What if any problem's have you had,any major problem's,how has your dealer service been and most importantly how happy are you with your vehicle.I am thinking about buying an 05 C230K Sport Sedan with 5-speed auto,Sunroof package,6-disc CD-Changer.Other vehicle's I am looking at are 05 Saab 9-3Aero Sport Sedan,05 Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan and 05 Acura TL Sedan.Thought's on these vehicles also would be appreciated.I am a little leary of purchasing a European vehicle after reading an article I believe it was in USA Today about the poor reliability of the German Make's.The Japanese make's scored very highly.Thank's to all those that respond.Sorry about the long post.
MBMikey4
MBMikey4
However If you value design appeal and solid driving feel than there is really no comparison but to go the german route. I know this has been said thousands of times buts its true. You actually feel like driving a premium car every time you are behind the wheel. You have to go the dealer a little more often but that is the cast off if youre not too picky about some minor annoyances.
Value would go toward the TL definitely. Nothing really stands about the car but its probably the best all around car under 35,000.
Performance per dollar you would have to take the G35 Sedan. The power, handling, looks of this car is amazing. One of the few japanese cars that I would consider purchasing. Very nice job. The 05 interior for the G is vastly improved as well as the Horsepower
Its almost 2 years since I have my C and its been trouble-free for the most part. I am very happy with the experience and build quality.
The choice is up to you. Buy what takes care of YOUR needs. And disregard biased surveys. Goodluck.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 6,279
Likes: 58
From: OC
i drive them all, fast and hard
need buying advice, going to dealer next week
Im going to Fletcher jones next week, to buy a c320 sport sedan . i wanna get silver/black, auto trans, xenons, sunroof pack, heated seats and cd changer.
i have gone on edmunds and seen the invoice prices for all these parts and the car. when i start to wheel and deal with the salesman, should i start under the invoice price. ?
whats teh best way to go about doing this. I will be paying cash for the car.
i know that the dealer price is about 44000 but theres no way i want to pay that much.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
thanks
i have gone on edmunds and seen the invoice prices for all these parts and the car. when i start to wheel and deal with the salesman, should i start under the invoice price. ?
whats teh best way to go about doing this. I will be paying cash for the car.
i know that the dealer price is about 44000 but theres no way i want to pay that much.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
thanks
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 2,015
Likes: 1
2005 C320wz
i didn't bargain because i had special ordered the car 
after the sale, the dealer will try to sell you other package deals for examples lo-jack security system, tire protection plan, perma-plate detailing, etc... because I wasn't expecting it, i fell for the perma-plate detailing. I also got the tire protection plan but i think that was worth it. the perma-plate thing was a rip off. it came out good but it's way over priced.
after the sale, the dealer will try to sell you other package deals for examples lo-jack security system, tire protection plan, perma-plate detailing, etc... because I wasn't expecting it, i fell for the perma-plate detailing. I also got the tire protection plan but i think that was worth it. the perma-plate thing was a rip off. it came out good but it's way over priced.
Banned
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,194
Likes: 1
From: Australia
Originally Posted by vdubpower
Im going to Fletcher jones next week, to buy a c320 sport sedan . i wanna get silver/black, auto trans, xenons, sunroof pack, heated seats and cd changer.
i have gone on edmunds and seen the invoice prices for all these parts and the car. when i start to wheel and deal with the salesman, should i start under the invoice price. ?
whats teh best way to go about doing this. I will be paying cash for the car.
i know that the dealer price is about 44000 but theres no way i want to pay that much.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
thanks
i have gone on edmunds and seen the invoice prices for all these parts and the car. when i start to wheel and deal with the salesman, should i start under the invoice price. ?
whats teh best way to go about doing this. I will be paying cash for the car.
i know that the dealer price is about 44000 but theres no way i want to pay that much.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
thanks
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 2,891
Likes: 0
From: SoCal
2002 C230 : 2007 C230
Originally Posted by vdubpower
i know that the dealer price is about 44000 but theres no way i want to pay that much.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
please give me advice as to how i should approach a purchase.
Originally Posted by vdubpower
yes i am going to buy a new car, 2005
please let me know how i should go about this
please let me know how i should go about this
Step 2. Don't wheel & deal. Make your offer and stick to it.
Step 3. Have your cash or financing ready before arriving at the dealer.
Step 4. Drive home in your new car.
The whole process should take no more than 1 hour from the time you walk in until the time you drive out.
Enjoy...
Banned
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,194
Likes: 1
From: Australia
Originally Posted by vdubpower
yes i am going to buy a new car, 2005
please let me know how i should go about this
please let me know how i should go about this
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 6,279
Likes: 58
From: OC
i drive them all, fast and hard
wow 41 , 42, i thoght people were geting them under 40,
ok, so why not fletcher jones,
just curious wht makes teh others better, different,
caliber is also close to me
my pops has bought 2 s classes from FJ before tho, shouldnt tht help
ok, so why not fletcher jones,
just curious wht makes teh others better, different,
caliber is also close to me
my pops has bought 2 s classes from FJ before tho, shouldnt tht help
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Same boat
I am in the same position (think I found a buyer for my current car) but going to get a 05 C230 SS (auto, lighting, entertainment, sunroof).
What do you guys think of WI Simonson? Should I be looking at Fletcher or HOI over them? I'd like to do everything over the phone (pending a inspection when I arrive) since I live in Bakersfield, CA.
I also plan on leasing, so I am not sure if certain dealerships will try to screw you more then others on the leasing...
What do you guys think of WI Simonson? Should I be looking at Fletcher or HOI over them? I'd like to do everything over the phone (pending a inspection when I arrive) since I live in Bakersfield, CA.
I also plan on leasing, so I am not sure if certain dealerships will try to screw you more then others on the leasing...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 6,279
Likes: 58
From: OC
i drive them all, fast and hard
what is i do this
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
MBworld Guru
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 22,058
Likes: 18
From: Diamond Bar, CA
W206 PHEV AMG
Originally Posted by vdubpower
what is i do this
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
best way is to tell them you want the car and can buy now, but you want their best offer, no bs or you'll take it somewhere else.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 2,891
Likes: 0
From: SoCal
2002 C230 : 2007 C230
Originally Posted by vdubpower
what is i do this
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
call the local dealers, in so cal, tell them exactly what i want, colors, features, and tell them i have 39000 cash, i dont want to haggle, or hassle, just whoever has the car, ill come, check it out and buy,
do u think being that direct is good i dea, thanks
When I get to the dealer, I tell them I'm leaving in 1 hr and if the car & the papers are not ready, I'll be leaving without.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,737
Likes: 1
From: San Diego, Ca
2003 Citron Green C230KMT
not only the dealership, but a good salespaerson who doesnt look like cal worthington, and treat you like one, hard to find.
anaheim drew has also posted tips on buying a car.
i would take into consideration other dealers, but remember, dont travel too far. alot of the dealers now have preferred stickers in the windshield for people who bought that car at that specific dealer. then when you go in for service, if you want a free loaner, or that free wash, at home oil changes, flatbed service pickup and those perks we all enjoy, you have to have the preferred sticker. so is the money you save, say $500, $1000 or so worth the extra distance for the free loaners, car washes, etc. money is money and i understand that, but i wouldnt go out out of my way to save $1000, to travel an extra, say 20 miles to take my car in for service. if the closest dealer, had shanty salesmen, service, etc. well then id take my business elsewhere. but if they have good service, id probably still buy my car there. you only buy the car once, you'll take it for service more than that!
my car was in for 5 days for a service B, front brake pads, and a couple other minor warranty issues. had i not had a loaner i would have been pissed. i lucked out, i bought my car at Mercedes-Benz of San Diego, but moved from SD last Dec to Claremont. now i take my car to Penske Claremont. they at first wouldnt give me a loaner but when i told them MBSD was a Penske dealership, which the service dept. verrifed with manament, they honored that and gave me a Penske Preferred Sticker.
anaheim drew has also posted tips on buying a car.
i would take into consideration other dealers, but remember, dont travel too far. alot of the dealers now have preferred stickers in the windshield for people who bought that car at that specific dealer. then when you go in for service, if you want a free loaner, or that free wash, at home oil changes, flatbed service pickup and those perks we all enjoy, you have to have the preferred sticker. so is the money you save, say $500, $1000 or so worth the extra distance for the free loaners, car washes, etc. money is money and i understand that, but i wouldnt go out out of my way to save $1000, to travel an extra, say 20 miles to take my car in for service. if the closest dealer, had shanty salesmen, service, etc. well then id take my business elsewhere. but if they have good service, id probably still buy my car there. you only buy the car once, you'll take it for service more than that!
my car was in for 5 days for a service B, front brake pads, and a couple other minor warranty issues. had i not had a loaner i would have been pissed. i lucked out, i bought my car at Mercedes-Benz of San Diego, but moved from SD last Dec to Claremont. now i take my car to Penske Claremont. they at first wouldnt give me a loaner but when i told them MBSD was a Penske dealership, which the service dept. verrifed with manament, they honored that and gave me a Penske Preferred Sticker.
Last edited by CitronC230K_03; Nov 22, 2004 at 01:14 AM.
Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 202
Likes: 0
From: Huntington Beach, California
2002 C230 Coupe
Help - buying a C230 Coupe for my fiancee
Hi All, I thought I'd ask your advice. I am looking to buy a C230 Kompressor Coupe... but I want to buy one with Navigation (COMMAND system.) I'm looking for a used car based on price. Would you all recommend buying a used C230 with the COMMAND system already installed? Or is it more price-effective to buy a used car and have Steve at MBENZNL.com add the COMMAND system? (From this forum I have read very good things about Steve... unfortunately he's in Chicago and I'm in California...)
Thanks for any input!
Bob
Thanks for any input!
Bob
Member
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 168
Likes: 0
From: hawaii
'05 C230 coupe
well, I suppose either way, you *are* paying for the command, so it would be less of a hassle to buy a car that's got it installed already. if you end up not being able to find one at all, then getting installed is always an option
Guest
Posts: n/a
Your going to have an awfully hard time finding Comands in C-Class's. So If I were you pick up the car that has the options and color you want and then you can easily add Comand later. Even Bi-Xenons can be add later. Steve makes trips to Cali often and his work is first rate. If Steve cant make it, you can order it from him and there are other mbworlders that can help you with the install.
