W204 Purchase
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2023
Posts: 6
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F150
W204 Purchase
Hello,
I am seriosuly considering purchasing a W204 2014 C300 4 MATIC, 54k miles. Good service history, interior looks new and exterior has a few scratches but thats normal. Anything I should be aware of with these vehicles? This will serve as a secondary vehicle for, so I don't need it necessarily as a daily driver. Thoughts?
If I do get it, I planned to immediately change the oil, air filter etc. Maybe the plugs and coils?
I am seriosuly considering purchasing a W204 2014 C300 4 MATIC, 54k miles. Good service history, interior looks new and exterior has a few scratches but thats normal. Anything I should be aware of with these vehicles? This will serve as a secondary vehicle for, so I don't need it necessarily as a daily driver. Thoughts?
If I do get it, I planned to immediately change the oil, air filter etc. Maybe the plugs and coils?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 2,347
Likes: 692
2021 GLB250 FWD, 2023 GLA250 FWD, 2013 C250, 2015 GLK350, 2005 ML350SE, 2003 E320
The 248 HP version of the M276 engine in this model has been in general quite reliable. The 4 Matic introduces added components and complexity and higher maintenance costs at very high mileage. Transmission fluid and filter change is needed at 60,000 miles, no matter what the owners manual says. Some owners in areas that use chemicals on roads in winter to melt ice have had problems with the rear sub frame corroding. Mercedes is in the process of issuing an extended warranty for the subframe, but get it inspected if the history of the car is unknown.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 795
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From: San Diego, CA
2016 E350 Sport; Mom Wrecked the 2008 E350; sold the 2002 C320
Listen very closely for clunks and inspect carefully for leaks.
I just bought a 2013 with low miles that looked pristine. A couple days after driving home with it, I heard a clunk when going in reverse so took it to my local indy.
Front drive shaft was about to break off and they found a leak on the timing cover. They were so concerned about the condition of the driveshaft that they urged me not to drive it home (said they've seen them tear off the catalytic converter when they break loose) and the oil leak they told me was not urgent, but could end up with oil getting into the computer harness.
Less than a week after purchase, it set me back an additional $4K. (they also changed oil, plugs, cam magnets and sensors while they were at it).
Best course of action: get a pre-purchase inspection at a reputable shop.
I just bought a 2013 with low miles that looked pristine. A couple days after driving home with it, I heard a clunk when going in reverse so took it to my local indy.
Front drive shaft was about to break off and they found a leak on the timing cover. They were so concerned about the condition of the driveshaft that they urged me not to drive it home (said they've seen them tear off the catalytic converter when they break loose) and the oil leak they told me was not urgent, but could end up with oil getting into the computer harness.
Less than a week after purchase, it set me back an additional $4K. (they also changed oil, plugs, cam magnets and sensors while they were at it).
Best course of action: get a pre-purchase inspection at a reputable shop.
